Cattle Mixed on Friday

Single cow with number tag in ear by Mabel Amber, who will one day via Pixabay

Live cattle futures are facing mixed action so far, with front months down 15 to 50 cents and a few other contracts higher. Cash action saw trade this week anywhere from $189-190. Feeder cattle futures are up $1.25 to $2.50 on the day. The CME Feeder Cattle Index was up at $251.20 on October 30. 

USDA wholesale Boxed Beef prices were lower again in the Friday morning report. Choice boxes were down a quarter to $317.35/cwt, with Select 22 cents lower @ $285.15. The Chc/Sel spread narrowed slightly to $32.20. USDA estimated Thursday’s federally inspected cattle slaughter at 121,000 head, with the weekly total at 490,000. That is 1,000 head below the previous week and down 10,231 head from the same week last year.

Dec 24 Live Cattle  are at $185.800, down $0.500,

Feb 25 Live Cattle  are at $186.625, down $0.150,

Apr 25 Live Cattle  are at $187.600, up $0.250,

Nov 24 Feeder Cattle  are at $246.625, up $1.250

Jan 25 Feeder Cattle  are at $243.100, up $1.775

Mar 25 Feeder Cattle  are at $241.350, up $2.275


On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.