Another quiet start for direct cash cattle trade.  Bids have yet to surface and asking prices are around $118 to $120 live in the South and $192 in the North.  While packer inquiry could improve as the day progresses, it’s likely the bulk of the weeks business will be delayed until midweek or later. 

Boxed beef is sharply higher at midday on good demand for moderate offerings.  Choice is $4.76 higher at $244.29 and Select is $3.49 higher at $235.99.  The Choice/Select spread is $8.30.

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