Current Markets & Forecasts

Alberta fed steer and heifer trade was $2.00-3.00/cwt higher this week with a weighted average price at $332/cwt and $329/cwt respectively. Dressed sales were reported from $550.00-555.00/cwt delivered, $3.00-4.00/cwt higher than the previous week. Buying interest was noted from all Western Canadian packers. Most of the cattle traded were scheduled for the first half of…

The Western Canadian fed market has worked higher since the beginning of the year gaining $31/cwt or close to $500/head. Last week, the Canfax average fed steer and heifer price closed around $328/cwt live, up $3.50/cwt from the previous week. From a supply perspective, seasonally yearling numbers are declining while fed calves are still a…

Seasonally, after the Easter holiday warmer weather is usually price supportive for the beef complex. Packer margins have improved in recent weeks with a stronger cutout and utilization. Alberta direct cattle saw light trade with dressed sales reported at $545.00/cwt delivered, $5.00/cwt stronger than the previous week. Buying interest was noted from all Western Canadian…

Last week, the Canfax average fed steer and heifer price closed around $321/cwt live, steady with the previous week. Buying interest was noted from all Western Canadian packers while U.S. inquiries were limited. Light trade was reported with dressed sales ranging from $535.50-539.00/cwt FOB the feedlot. In some instances, cattle were bought flat with no…

Eastern and Western Canadian fed prices have been moving in opposite directions as of late. Eastern Canadian fed prices were the lowest seen this year, while Western Canadian fed prices established new record highs. Last week, light to moderate trade was reported with dressed sales at $540.00/cwt delivered. Cattle that traded were scheduled for early…