Cattle Futures Rally After Long Weekend

Live cattle futures see gains of up to 90 cents as cash trade picks up and JBS strike in Colorado nears resolution.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:19pm

A vibrant abstract illustration composed of intersecting triangles and rectangles in shades of red, blue, and yellow, conceptually representing the upward trend in cattle futures and prices.Cattle futures rally as supply chain issues show signs of easing in the beef industry.Greeley Today

Live cattle futures posted strong gains on Monday, with the front-month April contract rising $1.825. Cash trade also took off last week, with sales at $245-246 across the country, up $8-10 from the previous week. The JBS strike in Greeley, Colorado is expected to conclude on Monday, with workers coming back on Tuesday as negotiations are still ongoing.

Why it matters

The cattle market is a key indicator of broader economic conditions, as beef prices impact consumer spending and inflation. The rally in futures and cash prices suggests strong demand, while the resolution of the JBS strike could help alleviate supply chain issues that have impacted the industry.

The details

Live cattle futures saw gains ranging from 40 to 90 cents, with the front-month April contract up $1.825. There were no deliveries issued for April on First Notice Day, with the oldest long dated May 15, 2025. Feeder cattle futures were mixed, with nearby contracts down and deferred contracts up. The CME Feeder Cattle Index was down $3.04 to $364.55 on April 3. Wholesale Boxed Beef prices were also higher, with Choice boxes up 26 cents and Select up $2.18.

  • On Monday, April 6, 2026, live cattle futures posted the gains.
  • The JBS strike in Greeley, Colorado is expected to conclude on Monday, April 6, 2026, with workers coming back on Tuesday.

The players

JBS

A major meatpacking company with a plant in Greeley, Colorado that was affected by a strike.

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The takeaway

The rally in cattle futures and cash prices, along with the resolution of the JBS strike, suggest the beef industry is recovering from recent supply chain disruptions and facing strong consumer demand. This could be an encouraging sign for the broader economy as inflationary pressures ease.