HUDSON OAKS, Texas (RFD NEWS) — Fall replacement cattle markets are becoming more selective as buyers weigh forage availability, calf health, and widening discounts on unweaned cattle. The Cattle Report says the next two months are typically the year’s largest marketing period for replacement cattle.
Late-summer and fall video auctions have shown some pens scratched or passed, leaving cattle that could return to the market as fed cattle as feeder prices move higher. Owners selling through local livestock auctions know the cattle will sell, but they give up more control over final price.
Health risk is also widening price differences. The report says the spread between weaned and unweaned calves has reached about $50 per hundredweight as buyers avoid cattle facing added stress from heat, weaning and seasonal health problems.
Weather is another major factor. Generous rain across parts of the southern Plains has improved prospects for winter wheat grazing, but operators remain cautious about buying cattle before forage is established.
The next several weeks will show whether stronger feeder prices and improving wheat pasture conditions bring more replacement cattle back to market.
Live Update: Ralph Wade with Superior Livestock
Ralph Wade, auctioneer and representative with Superior Livestock Auction, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest cattle market activity and what producers should watch over the next several months.
In his interview with RFD News, Wade said cattle markets remain active but volatile as producers move into the fall marketing season, with uncertainty surrounding labor, packing, and broader market conditions.
Superior Livestock Auction was offering more than 18,000 cattle during its latest video auction. Wade said buyer participation has been active, although uncertainty is making some participants more cautious.
“Our market today is volatile. It’s a little up and down, but still, you look at the actual dollars that these cattle are bringing. It’s a good market.”
Wade said uncertainty surrounding politics and the major meatpacking companies is influencing the market.
Labor Uncertainty Adds To Market Volatility
Looking ahead 30 to 60 days, Wade said labor concerns are among the factors he is watching. He pointed to uncertainty surrounding immigration enforcement and its potential effect on meatpacking labor.
“A lot of workers are not showing up, so that’s making this market really volatile and uncertain right now.”
Wade said he expects cattle supplies to remain a significant factor as the market moves forward.
“The cattle are not there. I mean, look at the numbers that we’re marketing at all of the livestock markets, not just Superior, but all the livestock markets, and the numbers that were running right now, and we’re into full swing of the fall run.”
He said cattle numbers could become tighter as the season progresses, potentially leaving feedlots with fewer cattle available.
Expert Tip: Stay The Course
With continued market uncertainty, Wade said producers should avoid making major changes based on short-term market swings.
“Just stay the course and don’t change your program because when you get into markets like this, you start changing your program. Usually, you’ll wind up being wrong.”
Superior Livestock Auction’s next sale is expected in mid-October. Wade said the company anticipates another sizeable offering as cattle continue moving through the fall marketing season.
LEARN MORE: superiorlivestock.com
