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ArticleBrownfield Ag NewsJul 13, 2026

Why Are Cattle Futures Mixed as Corn Prices Rise?

Cattle futures opened mixed as traders await direct business amid rising corn prices.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on Brownfield Ag News. How our briefs are made

Source published Jul 13, 2026. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

cattle futurescorn pricesChicago Mercantile Exchange

Source summary

What this article covered

Market Reactions to Corn Prices

The rise in corn prices is putting pressure on feeder cattle prices, leading to a mixed response in the cattle futures market. As feed costs increase, cattle producers are faced with tighter margins.

Awaiting Direct Business

Traders are currently waiting for direct business to provide clearer signals for the cattle market. This uncertainty can lead to fluctuations in futures prices as market participants react to new information.

Implications for Delta Farmers

For farmers in the Delta region, the interplay between cattle and corn prices is particularly relevant. Rising feed costs can significantly impact the profitability of cattle operations, making it essential for producers to stay informed.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    August live cattle closed $.47 lower at $234.72

  2. 02

    October live cattle closed $.07 higher at $230.62

  3. 03

    August feeder cattle dropped $.25 to $354.35

  4. 04

    September feeder cattle fell $.20 amid rising corn prices

  5. 05

    Market awaits direct business for clearer direction.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the article covered, in 4 signals

Cattle

Mixed

August live cattle

Closed $.47 lower at $234.72

Cattle

Mixed

October live cattle

Closed $.07 higher at $230.62

Cattle

Lower

August feeder cattle

Closed $.25 lower at $354.35

Cattle

Lower

September feeder cattle

Closed $.20 lower amid corn price rise

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What caused the mixed cattle futures this week?

The mixed cattle futures are primarily due to traders awaiting direct business and the impact of rising corn prices on feeder cattle.

How did live cattle prices perform?

August live cattle closed $.47 lower while October live cattle closed $.07 higher.

What is the impact of rising corn prices on cattle operations?

Rising corn prices increase feed costs, which can tighten profit margins for cattle producers.

What should Delta farmers watch in the cattle market?

Delta farmers should monitor corn prices and their impact on cattle futures to make informed management decisions.

Why are feeder cattle prices declining?

Feeder cattle prices are declining due to the higher move in corn prices, which affects feed costs.

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