Direct cash cattle trade is off to another quiet start.  Bids and asking prices have not been established.  Showlists are mixed – higher in Kansas and somewhat higher in Nebraska/Colorado, but lower in Texas.  While some interest could develop today, look for significant trade volume to hold out until midweek or later. 

Boxed beef is higher at midday on solid demand for moderate offerings.  Choice is $.90 higher at $338.33 and Select is $.76 higher at $311.00.  The Choice/Select spread is $27.33. 

At the Joplin Regional Stockyard in Missouri, feeder steers under 700 pounds were $4 to $8 lower and heavier weights were $5 to $10 higher. 

…