Factors Affecting Feeder Cattle Prices in the Southeast

This work examines feeder cattle pricing factors from internet auctions and preconditioned feeder calf sales. In addition to examining traditional pricing factors, factors were also examined relating to the marketing conditions and characteristics of the feeder cattle sold. A negative relationship was found to exist between corn and feeder cattle price, with some evidence that the magnitude may be smaller than in previous work. Value-added premiums were moderate, roughly $11 per head for age and source verification and $17 per head for certified natural. Evidence was also found that market conditions may have shifted such that the incentive to underestimate weight in video auctions may no longer exist.