DTN Closing Livestock Comment 03/25 17:21

DTN Closing Livestock Comment 03/25 17:21 Cattle Futures End Lower Monday Traders quickly adjusted positions Monday, putting pressure on deferred lean hog futures. Cattle futures were weaker on increased placements in February. By Rick Kment DTN Analyst GENERAL COMMENTS: Strong pressure developed throughout livestock trade following continued weakness in lean hog futures Monday. Cattle trade softened on increased placements in February. Cash cattle activity was undeveloped following generally smaller trade levels late last week. Bids and asking prices were not available and may not be active until midweek. Showlist distribution and inventory-taking were the main activities Monday. Showlists appear generally larger. Offerings increased in Nebraska, Colorado and Kansas, but decreased in Texas. It is likely to be the last half of the week again before active trade develops. The National Daily Direct afternoon hog report was $2.55 higher ($60-$74, weighted average $68.82) on 7,248 head sold. Corn futures were higher in light activity with May up 1 1/2 cents per bushel. The Dow Jones Index was 14 points higher while the Nasdaq was down 5 points.