On Tuesdays, Senior Farm and Ranch Broadcaster Ron Hays visits with Ben Hale of Western Livestock Auctions as he talks about the latest in the markets and more. Established in 1995, Western has grown into a multi-generational family-owned and operated business and stands as a symbol of tradition, excellence, and a deep-rooted passion for the cattle industry. Western Livestock Auctions operates the Western Livestock Commission Firm, which sells cattle on Mondays and Tuesdays. They also operate the livestock auction markets in Woodward, Comanche, Waurika, and Knoxville, Iowa.
Hale shared an update this week from the Oklahoma National Stockyards, noting that the run was “a little over 6,000 head, and not much different than a year ago.” He said the sale “started out a little slow on some of those soft calves,” but emphasized that “the market was very snappy on those grazing cattle.” Hale explained that buyers were “very, very selective,” but good-quality, weaned calves “really got after them,” resulting in strong prices for top-end cattle.
Discussing recent market trends, Hale pointed out the uncertainty caused by fluctuating futures prices. “We’ve had several guys just wanting to buy,” he said, “but when the board did what it did, up and down and down and down, they’re kind of hesitant.” Still, he noted that “the calf deals kind of come back pretty stout,” and that producers are watching the weather closely. With more moisture and wheat growth, Hale believes “they would step back in this market,” adding that “the guy selling is liking what they’re bringing.”
Hale also touched on female cattle opportunities, suggesting that “if anybody’s wanting to buy some females, they might find some relative deals compared to what a month ago.” With the first freeze now behind them, he expects “the condition on these cattle will get better every week.” He noted that there were “some good Red Angus heifers yesterday, and some good black heifers,” making it a good time for buyers to “buy and grow into” future replacements.
Looking beyond Oklahoma City, Hale reported that “Waurika is going have about 3,000 today,” with “a lot of nice cattle down there” and “a pretty good run Wednesday” expected at Woodward as well.
Hale can be contacted at 940-631-2333. Check out more about the marketing options that Western offers by clicking here.
