March 16, 2026 – Live cattle futures found modest support to close the trading week, ending a multi-session slide. The market showed signs of stabilization after a week of pressure, with feeder cattle contracts posting more substantial gains.
Friday’s Market Recovery
December live cattle futures settled with a 15-cent gain on Friday, reaching $219.150. Despite this uptick, the contract remained down $2.20 for the week. February and April 2026 contracts also closed higher, gaining 57.5 cents and 97.5 cents respectively.
Feeder cattle futures demonstrated stronger momentum. The January 2026 contract rose $2.10 to close at $320.550. This gain followed a volatile week that included limit moves in both directions. The CME Feeder Cattle Index, a key benchmark, increased $1.31 to $343.73 in its last reported reading.
Cash Market and Wholesale Trends
Cash cattle trade showed regional variation. Prices ranged from $225 to $227 per hundredweight in most areas, with some Southern transactions reaching $228. Late sales in Northern regions were reported between $218 and $222.
Wholesale boxed beef prices moved lower. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Choice boxed beef down $2.84 at $370.73. Select boxed beef declined 79 cents to $354.24. This narrowed the price spread between Choice and Select cuts to $16.49.
Production and Policy Context
USDA data showed federally inspected cattle slaughter for the previous week at 576,000 head. This represented an increase of 16,000 head from the prior week but remained 32,810 head below the same period last year.
Trade policy developments provided additional context. The White House recently reduced tariffs on several food import items, including beef. However, a 40% tariff on Brazilian beef imports remained in place, according to official statements.
Market Outlook
Analysts monitor the relationship between futures pricing and physical market fundamentals. The recent stabilization in futures contracts suggests some traders see value at current levels. Market participants will watch for sustained cash market strength and export demand signals.
Industry data from sources like the USDA and CME Group provide ongoing benchmarks for price discovery. The feeder cattle index and weekly slaughter figures offer key indicators of supply conditions.
For official market data and historical charts, visit the CME Group livestock markets page. Comprehensive agricultural reports are available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.
