Cattle Markets Climb While Grains Struggle in July Trading
Live and Feeder Cattle Among Top Gainers as Month Closes
As July trading draws to a close, live and feeder cattle are finishing the month strong, according to the latest commodity update from Southeast AgNet’s Bottom Line Report. With only two trading days remaining, both live cattle and feeder cattle are posting solid gains and ranking among the top-performing commodities this month.
Feeder cattle currently sit at number six on the list of 48 tracked commodities, while live cattle hold the number nine position. Both have climbed between 5.5% and 6% since the start of July, marking a positive trend in the livestock market that has held steady throughout the month.
Orange Juice Leads the Pack
While cattle markets are performing well, the biggest standout in July has been orange juice, which tops the list with a remarkable 34% gain for the month. Its surge far outpaces any other commodity and highlights how specific sectors are experiencing significant price swings amid broader market fluctuations.
Grain Markets Show Losses Despite Small Rally
In contrast to the livestock market’s upward momentum, grain commodities have had a challenging month. Corn, soybeans, and wheat have all declined between 5% and 7%, even after a recent small bump in trading. These losses place grain crops near the bottom of the monthly performance list.
One bright spot in the grain category is oats, which have seen a modest 2% increase so far in July. That movement, while small, is attracting attention from market analysts.
Oats as a Possible Indicator
Some analysts suggest that the movement in oats could serve as an early indicator for future trends in the broader grain market. With uncertainty lingering for corn, soybean, and wheat producers, many are hopeful that oats’ upward direction could signal a potential turnaround.
Outlook and Final Thoughts
As the month wraps up, livestock producers have reason to remain optimistic, while grain farmers keep a close eye on market indicators like oats. Commodity investors and agricultural stakeholders alike will be watching closely as final trades settle this week.
Wishing all producers a profitable close to July.
— Mark Oppold, Southeast AgNet