Live Cattle Futures Update: Trends and Market Insights
Midday Futures Performance
As of midday, Live Cattle Futures are experiencing gains ranging from $0.50 to $1.35. August futures are notably recovering after hitting support levels identified by the 40-day moving average earlier in the week. In the cash market, trading has seen a slight decrease this week, with figures reported at $236 per cwt ($376 dressed) in the North, marking a decline of $4-$6. The South reports prices at $231, down by $5.
Feeder Cattle Futures Movement
Feeder cattle futures are up by at least $2.50 per hundredweight, likely influenced by positioning ahead of the Cattle on Feed (COF) report expected later today. The CME Feeder Cattle Index has risen by $1.16, with an average price now at $312.62.
Export Sales and Shipment Data
The latest export sales data from the USDA indicates 11,711 metric tons of beef were sold for delivery in 2025 during the week ended June 12. This figure represents a significant drop of 23.64% compared to the previous week. Beef shipments for the same week accounted for 13,593 metric tons, down 6.53% week-over-week.
Analyst Projections Ahead of COF Report
A Reuters survey of industry analysts predicts that as of June 1, the number of cattle on feed will be down by 1.1% compared to last year. Analysts also expect a 5.9% decline in placements during May, along with marketings anticipated to drop by 9.3%.
National Wholesale Boxed Beef Prices
The national wholesale boxed beef market is mixed today. Choice boxed beef prices have decreased by $3.44 to reach $390.35 per cwt. In contrast, Select boxes are up by $1.56, currently quoted at $376.15 per cwt. The USDA estimates the federally inspected cattle slaughter for Thursday at 117,000 head, bringing the weekly total to 451,000. This figure reflects a reduction of 5,000 head from the prior week and is 28,373 head lower than the same week last year.
Current Live and Feeder Cattle Prices
- June 25 Live Cattle: $225.00, up $0.70
- August 25 Live Cattle: $212.70, up $1.025
- October 25 Live Cattle: $210.35, up $1.125
- August 25 Feeder Cattle: $306.375, up $2.200
- September 25 Feeder Cattle: $306.250, up $2.450
- October 25 Feeder Cattle: $304.150, up $2.250
This market analysis offers a snapshot of the current state of Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle futures, including relevant trends and price changes.
