Weight, condition, and finish of livestock contributing to softer prices in Australia

Softer prices in the market recently have been driven largely by the weight, condition and finish of livestock. With extensive supply in the saleyards and processors booked out in advance, demand pressure in the saleyards has been soft. Less activity at the saleyard has also affected prices, with not all regular buyers present or actively bidding. The prospect of drier conditions and the movement towards a growth phase in the herd and flock has reduced the demand for restocker livestock. Coupled with a general seasonal easing of prices, this has led to the markets softening for younger cattle and breeding ewes. As the intensive rebuild of herd and flock numbers declines, the feeder and processor prices are not the more relevant prices to watch. Calves and lambs born during the rebuild are now coming to market weights and moving through the saleyards. Muscle scores When we compare the prices for different muscle scores across the year, the price premiums being paid based on muscle ...