Liveweight cattle prices boosted by Christmas sales
Liveweight cattle prices have soared over the past couple of weeks, buoyed by strong trade at Christmas primestock shows and sales.
In the week to 5 December, the all prime cattle average increased by 9p/kg, to 203.6p/kg. That was the first time on record that the average price had broken through the 200p/kg barrier, said a report by EBLEX. Prices continued to rise in the week to 10 December, to average 204.23p/kg.
“This has been driven by the steer and heifer prices increasing to a greater extent than the young bull category,” said the report. “This reflects the nature of Christmas shows and sales where there are few, if any, categories for young bulls.” All bulls averaged 188.86p/kg in the week ending 10 December, with steers at 208.07p and heifers 210.9p/kg.
“However, the price rise in all categories does indicate an underlying strong demand for all cattle.” As a result, liveweight cull cow values were also firmer, with beef-bred stock particularly sought after. Beef-bred cow values increased by around 7p/kg over the past fortnight, to average 126.15p/kg, with dairy animals up by around 3p, to 102.67p/kg.
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