Direct cash cattle trade activity is quiet.  Bids have yet to surface.  Asking prices have been floated at $138 to $140 live in the South and $230 plus dressed in the North.  Packer inquiry could improve as the day progresses and we could see some early business develop.  But it’s likely the bulk of the week’s trade will take place midweek or later. 

Boxed beef is weak to lower at midday with light negotiated purchases.  Choice is $.04 lower at $270.50 and Select is $.30 lower at $247.15.  The Choice/Select spread is $23.35. 

At the Joplin Regional Stockyards in Missouri, compared to last week feeder steers under 700 pounds were $7 to $12 lower. 

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