Insights and Stories on Feeder Cattle

Jan. 7, 2025 at 9:48 am CST

The Alberta fed cattle market was quoted on a live basis in the range of range of $262-$265/cwt fob feedlot last week. Fed cattle forward contracts for March and April delivery (Alberta) were quoted from $270 to $272/cwt.  Compared to last week of November 2024, fed prices are up $20/cwt on average.

By Jerry Klassen

Jan. 6, 2025 at 2:51 pm CST

Live cattle futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange were stronger Monday, hitting fresh contract highs in many months as forecasts calling for cold temperatures across United States ranching areas raised concerns over reduced weight gains for grazing cattle.

By Phil Franz-Warkentin

Dec. 31, 2024 at 9:15 am CST

For the week ending December 28, there were no feeder cattle sales in Western Canada; however, that didn’t stop cattle producers from emailing or calling me over the holidays inquiring about market direction. I thought it would be an opportune time to discuss a couple factors that will influence the market direction over the next couple of months.

By Jerry Klassen

Dec. 24, 2024 at 9:20 am CST

For the week ending December 21, Western Canadian backgrounded cattle and heavier calves were unchanged to $5 lower on average. Calves in the 600-800 pound range were relatively unchanged while calves under 600 pounds were steady to $10 higher.

By Jerry Klassen

Dec. 17, 2024 at 9:43 am CST

The market continues to digest the U.S. border closure to Mexican feeder cattle, which is drawing more U.S. demand towards Western Canada. Auction market volumes are declining at this time of year. The quality of cattle was sub-par in some regions which caused prices to be quite variable.

By Jerry Klassen