Live cattle futures experienced a mixed outcome on Monday, April 26, 2023, with prices declining by $1.125 for some contracts while others gained up to 40 cents. Last week’s cash trade ranged from $246 to $250, with feeder cattle futures posting gains between 32 cents and $1.75. The CME Feeder Cattle Index rose to $373.94.
The OKC feeder cattle auction estimated sales of 5,000 head, showing steady to $5 higher prices for steers and $10-15 higher for heifers. Calves saw increases up to $25. Additionally, wholesale boxed beef prices increased, with Choice boxes rising $1.02 to $381.92 and Select boxes $2.30 higher at $383.64. The USDA reported federally inspected cattle slaughter at 107,000 head, up by 9,000 from the previous week, but down by 5,513 from the same week last year.
