Canfax Weekly Article | Report for the week of February 21, 2022

Last week the Canfax fed steer and heifer price closed around $160/cwt, $1.50/cwt higher than the previous week. Last week dressed sales were reported from $267.50-273.50/cwt FOB lot. Cattle that traded last week were being scheduled for the week of March 14 and 21 delivery.

The Canfax average feeder steer price closed the week $2/cwt higher while heifer prices were steady. Steers weighing from 6-700 lb traded $1.50/cwt higher, the highest point since July. Heifers weighing over 900 lb were 3.50 lower, the lowest point since late November. Western Canadian calf and feeder indices closed the week at $220.67/cwt and $197.71/cwt, respectively. Alberta weekly auction volumes totaled just over 31,900 head last week. Canadian feeder cattle exports to the U.S. for the week ending February 5 totaled 8,689 head.

Alberta D2 cows traded $4/cwt higher last week and live trade was reported from $76-92/cwt. D3 cows averaged $72.25/cwt. Butcher bulls traded $3/cwt higher to average $106.75/cwt and live trade was reported from $95-121/cwt. Canadian butcher bull exports to the U.S. for the week ending February 5 totaled 471 head.

Bull.

• In 2021 Canadian beef exports were up 21% in volumes and 37% in value compared 2020.
• U.S. beef retail prices for the month of January are 16% higher than last year.
• The latest AB/SK cattle on feed report showed the third month in a row of lower placements.

Bear.

• Alberta fed cash to futures basis was -$20.22/cwt for the middle of February. This is the third weakest basis level in 30 years.
• Based on the latest Canfax trends report, yearling steers and heifers placed in September and sold in February saw an average negative margin of $338/head.
• U.S. steer carcass weights are 1lb shy of their all time high.

For over 50 years, Canfax has provided expert analysis of markets and trends in the ever changing North American beef industry. In this new millennium, cattlemen, feedlot managers, and agri-business professionals will continue to rely on up-to-the-minute information as an essential tool for maximizing profit in today’s beef sector. Whether your operation needs to plan for three hours or three years into the future, Canfax delivers timely, accurate information for 21st Century cattle industry professionals.

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