Negotiated cash cattle prices traded higher for a fourth consecutive week as packers scrambled for inventory. Trade in the North was called active at $187 to $188 per cwt. live and $298 per cwt. dressed, $2 to $3 higher live and $6 higher dressed compared to the previous week. Cattle sold in the South at $186 per cwt. live, which is $1 higher compared to the previous week.
Feeder cattle traded mixed at $2 lower to $4 higher and calves sold $1 lower to $6 higher. Calf prices are at all-time highs and have advanced $40 per cwt. since Jan. 1. Cows sold $1 to $7 higher.
Wholesale beef prices closed the week higher. Choice boxed beef prices were quoted at $311.90 on Friday, $4.86 per cwt. higher for the week. Select boxed beef closed Friday at $302.40, up $4.97 per cwt. for the week.
By GREG HENDERSON
March 15, 2024
