The cattle market is expected to be fairly quiet today. Asking prices on cattle coming on to next week's lists are $116-$117.00. Packers appear to be satisfied with their purchases this week, and we have not found any bids. We were able to confirm the trade in Nebraska yesterday at $190 dressed. The market has had a strengthening tone this week and it appears feedlot attitudes will be positive going into next week.

The choice cutout was down $1.32 last night at $186.82, with the select up $0.29 at $185.56.

Volume of cuts continues extremely light. Although loins remain strong, ribs were weaker last night. Chucks also were easier, with rounds holding fairly well.

HOGS

Hog market calls are steady to higher this morning. Continued advances in the cutout are encouraging packers to chase the market a bit. Numbers also are tightening, which is increasing competition for hogs. Don't forget this afternoon's Hogs and Pigs Report, due out at 2 pm central time. The report is expected to show the hog industry in a holding pattern, with most inventory figures about steady with last year.

The pork cutout gained $0.44 last night. Butts were steady to a penny cents lower. Loins were mostly steady. Light weight hams were up 5 cents from their last quote, with middle weight hams up 2 cents. Heavy hams were steady. Bellies were unquoted by the USDA. Supplies are tight enough that pricing is firm, though there is very little product even available to trade.

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For more information or trading ideas about this market, Please contact us at (800)254-1753 or email us at sales@linngroup.com

TJE Cash trade information provided by Robin Fuller