Cattle futures news represents an important asset for those who practice this type of agricultural activity. And live cattle futures are some sort of standardized contracts which involve fully-grown cattle that is ready to be further sold to meat processors. Thus, the cattle can be sold when they reach a weight of about 1,200 to 1,400 pounds.
The futures were initially introduced in 1964. Up until then, futures were traded on grain or similar commodities. Since that time, the live cattle future agreement has gone through some significant changes, and all of these changes have increased the contract’s degree of usefulness. Because of these innovative tools, cattle producers have succeeded in better managing their price risk.
Live cattle futures are digitally traded on the Globex platform on Monday, from 9:30 a.m. ET to 2:05 p.m. Feeder cattle are young cattle which have grazed on pastures and have reached a weight of over 700 pounds. The cattle shall be placed in a feedlot and then they will receive a grain-based diet for about four or six months, or until they grow to their full potential.
USDA or the US Department of Agriculture provides information on the number of cattle and calves on feed, placements, and so on.
