On Monday, live cattle futures increased by 32 cents to $1.07, while feeder cattle futures rose by 90 cents to $1.40. The cash trade last week was softer at $228-229 across the country and $356-358 dressed. USDA estimated Monday’s federally inspected cattle slaughter at 121,000 head, up 11,000 from the previous week and 1,604 more than the same week last year.
Export sales data revealed sales of 11,403 MT of beef for the week ending December 4, significantly exceeding the prior week, with export shipments at 11,673 MT. In afternoon reports, USDA Wholesale Boxed Beef prices saw an increase, with Choice boxes up $1.24 to $362.87 and Select boxes rising $4.67 to $350.69. The Chc/Sel spread narrowed to $12.18.
