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.
Klassen: Feeder rally stalls
Rain and heat make for promising crop conditions
Areas where crops were planted on time should see good yields
Over the past month, above-average precipitation and normal temperatures have resulted in optimal growing conditions for Ontario and a large portion of the U.S. Midwest. The two-week forecast for the […] Read more
Klassen: Western Canadian yearling prices hit fresh record highs
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.
Klassen: Feeder market leaps higher
For the week ending July 20, Western Canadian yearlings traded $8-$15 above prices from seven days earlier. Values for larger groups of quality calves were up $8 to $10 from a week earlier while run of the mill smaller packages were relatively unchanged.
Expect volatility in soybean market from tariff trade distortion
Large U.S. crop and weaker export demand will overhang North American values
The most recent U.S. and Canadian crop surveys indicate that above average yields are expected for Ontario and U.S. corn and soybean crops. Quick lookSoybeans: China is buying soybeans, meal […] Read more
Klassen: Price discovery continues for feeder cattle fall run
Thin volumes characterized action market activity last week, which resulted in a wide range of prices for feeders of similar weight. There were some larger packages trading via video for August and September delivery. There has also been some private fob ranch negotiations as feedlots secure upcoming volume.
Klassen: Buyers tasting feeder cattle prices for fall run
For the week ending July 2, Western Canadian yearling prices were steady to $5 higher compared to seven days earlier for larger packages. Small groups of 800-pound-plus cattle were $10 to $15 discounted to pen-sized lots. Calf markets were relatively unchanged from the prior week, although volume was limited. There is significant open demand for yearlings and finishing feedlot operators are watching how prices develop.
China to be a major buyer of U.S. corn in the 2024/25 crop year
Dry conditions could lead China to buy corn this summer, which would be bullish for new crop prices
The ongoing Northern Hemisphere wheat harvest continues to pressure world wheat values. The North American weather premium in corn and soybean markets has evaporated due to optimal growing conditions. Quick […] Read more
Klassen: Light volumes characterize feeder market
For the week ending June 29, Western Canadian yearling and calf markets were unchanged from seven days earlier. Many auction barns are in holiday mode and volumes were light, making the market hard to define. Late blooming stragglers and off grade calves were common.
Klassen: Canadian heifer retention tightening feeder supply
Alberta and Saskatchewan heifer placements in the lighter weight categories are down from year-ago levels. Comments from ranchers and order buyers suggest that Western Canadian ranchers are holding back on heifers to expand the herd. This usually results in a narrowing of the steer/heifer spread.