Direct cash cattle trade is off to another slow start today following the holiday shortened week. Business so far has been too light to establish bids.  Asking prices are coming in at $112 to $113 in the south and $180 plus in the north. Trade could develop this afternoon but tomorrow will likely be this week’s heavy trade day heading into another holiday shortened week.

Boxed beef is mixed at midday on moderate demand for light offerings.  Choice is $2.23 higher at $210.05 and Select is $1.47 lower at $195.18.  The Choice/Select spread is $14.87. The choice/ select spread widening might hint at stronger consumer buying and restocking of more expensive meat cuts following the holiday.

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