Insights and Stories on Fed Cattle

Aug. 28, 2024 at 9:06 am CDT

For the week ending August 24, Western Canadian yearling prices were down $6-$12/cwt from seven days earlier. Calf markets traded $10-$12/cwt below week-ago levels. Larger numbers are coming on stream resulting in the softer tone.

By Jerry Klassen

Aug. 20, 2024 at 9:45 am CDT

For the week ending August 17, Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were $3-$5 lower on average. Three weeks ago, 1,000 pound steers off grass reached up to $340/cwt. This past week, these same cattle were quoted in the range of $315-$325/cwt.

By Jerry Klassen

Aug. 13, 2024 at 10:34 am CDT

Overall, the calf market appeared to be more sensitive to the weakness in the deferred live cattle futures while buyers of yearlings were focused on securing ownership.  Ideas are that yearling supplies are down from year-ago levels and scarcity factor is driving the bullish enthusiasm.

By Jerry Klassen

Aug. 6, 2024 at 4:17 pm CDT

For the week ending August 3, Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were relatively unchanged from seven days earlier. Strong buying interest continued on yearlings straight off grass; however, the “just get’em” type orders that were evident a week earlier now had limits. More cattle will come available in August and buyers are being more patient to see how the market develops.

By Jerry Klassen

Jul. 30, 2024 at 9:23 am CDT

The year-over-year decline in last year’s calf crop has caused the market to set new records. Larger finishing feedlots are setting the price structure as many of these lots have seasonal low inventory. The quality of yearlings coming off grass is excellent with buyers shopping for feed efficiencies.  

By Jerry Klassen