DTN Early Word Livestock Comments 04/25 06:07

DTN Early Word Livestock Comments 04/25 06:07 Further Pressure Possible in Reaction to HPAI News Cattle traders reacted negatively to the further unfolding news over the news indicating that HPAI may be more widespread than reported. Even though it has not been found in beef cattle, the news rattled the market again. Hogs were under slight pressure as traders assessed the recent strength and underlying fundamentals. Robin Schmahl DTN Contributing Analyst Cattle: Steady Futures: Higher Live Equiv: $219.11 -$1.31* Hogs: Higher Futures: Mixed Lean Equiv: $103.23 +$0.38** *Based on the formula estimating live cattle equivalent of gross packer revenue. (The Live Cattle Equiv. The 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: The news of the discovery of the HPAI virus in milk sent some traders running or the door looking to liquidate their long positions. Even though the consumption of pasteurized milk is safe and the consumption of meat is safe, consumers may react negatively. This may be the overriding influence on the market in the near term. The virus has not been found in beef cattle at this point but dairy cattle are slaughtered for beef as well. Some very light cattle trade developed in the South at steady money with last week which should be positive for the market. Boxed beef prices were lower with choice down $1.66 and select down $2.34.