Direct cash cattle trade activity is picking up.  There are a few bids that have surfaced in parts of Nebraska at $132 live and $207 dressed.  Asking prices are at $134 plus live in the South, but not fully established out of the North.  Packer inquiry is expected to improve as the day progresses.    Today’s Fed Cattle Exchange had an offering of 1,973 head with 308 that actually sold at $132.

Boxed beef is lower at midday with light demand for solid offerings.  Choice is $3.52 lower at $278.61 and Select is $1.04 lower at $265.55.  The Choice/Select spread is $13.06.

…