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Klassen: Calf market ratchets higher

For the week ending October 12, the Western Canadian prices for yearlings off grass and backgrounding operations were relatively unchanged from seven days earlier. The Lethbridge market for calves was up $8-$10 from week-ago levels while calf markets in the non-major feeding regions were up a solid $4-$6 on average.

(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder markets experience stronger demand

For the week ending October 5, Western Canadian prices for grass yearlings were steady to as much as $10 higher while values for backgrounded yearlings were relatively unchanged. Calf markets were quite variable with preconditioned 650-800 pound calves trading $4-$8 above week-ago levels. Prices for  non-weaned bawlers were relatively unchanged.

(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Western Canadian calf markets percolate higher

Strength in the deferred live cattle futures has spilt over into the feeder complex. Alberta and Saskatchewan placements in the lighter weight categories are down from year-ago levels which is resulting in stronger Alberta fed cattle basis levels for next spring.  These are the main factors influencing the calf markets in Western Canada.  

The Chicago Board of Trade building on May 28, 2018. (Harmantasdc/iStock Editorial/Getty Images)

U.S. grains: Soy futures soar on US weather woes

U.S. soybean futures hit their highest in two months on Friday as soymeal futures surged by five per cent on worries about damage to crops and infrastructure in the Gulf Coast region following the landfall of Hurricane Helene as well as short-covering ahead of key crop reports due Monday.