Live cattle futures are trading with contracts $1.52 to $1.90 higher across the nearbys at midday. There were no deliveries issued for August live cattle on Wednesday. Cash trade has been quiet this week outside of the $237 in Wednesday’s FCE. Feeder cattle futures are continuing to push higher on Thursday, as contracts are $1.72 to $4.25 higher and extending to new highs. The CME Feeder Cattle Index was up 18 cents to $336.21 on August 5.

Beef Export Sales data showed a total of 15,921 MT in sales during the week of 7/31, nearly double the previous week. Shipments were 14,049 MT, a 4-week high. 

USDA Wholesale Boxed Beef prices continue to see buying ahead of the Labor Day run later this month, with the Chc/Sel spread at $24.73. Choice boxes were up $3.41 at $378.27, while Select was $2.18 higher to $353.54. USDA estimated cattle slaughter for Wednesday at 116,000 head, with the weekly total at 332,000 head. That was down 1,000 head from last week and 28,722 head lower vs. the same week in 2024.

Aug 25 Live Cattle  are at $237.825, up $1.525,

Oct 25 Live Cattle  are at $231.275, up $1.625,

Dec 25 Live Cattle  are at $232.625, up $1.900,

Aug 25 Feeder Cattle  are at $346.750, up $1.725

Sep 25 Feeder Cattle  are at $347.625, up $3.400

Oct 25 Feeder Cattle  are at $346.525, up $4.125