DTN Early Word Livestock Comments 04/04 06:16

DTN Early Word Livestock Comments 04/04 06:16 Cattle Futures Remain Unable to Find Support Cattle futures spent some time in positive territory Wednesday, but it was short-lived as further liquidation continued. Hogs found greater support on Wednesday, pushing June through October to new contract highs. Robin Schmahl DTN Contributing Analyst Cattle: Lower Futures: Lower Live Equiv: $223.61 -$1.86* Hogs: Higher Futures: Mixed Lean Equiv: $100.88 -$2.22** *Based on formula estimating live cattle equivalent of gross packer revenue. (The Live Cattle Equiv. Index has been updated to depict recent changes in live cattle weights and grading percentages.) ** based on formula estimating lean hog equivalent of gross packer revenue. GENERAL COMMENTS: Cattle took it on the chin again Wednesday with feeder cattle showing significant pressure. The discovery of HPAI in a dairy herd in Ohio is increasing the concern about the further spread of the disease. This flu does not affect the safety of milk and meat, but it seems to be impacting beef sales anyway. Boxed beef prices have been weak so far this week, reflecting reduced consumer demand. Choice cuts declined $2.86 with select cuts down $2.07. With uncertainty surrounding the impact of HPAI, consumers may err on the cautious side. We can only hope it does not have an impact on beef exports as well. Weekly export sales will be released Thursday at 7:30 a.m. CDT.