More moderate increases for the finished male

The upward trend in slaughter cattle prices eased after two strong weeks. The average price of finished males in Brazil’s main cattle-producing states rose R$ 2.7/@ during the week to R$ 303.8, according to consulting firm Scot’s quotes, based on 30-day payment and excluding the Funrural tax. In the two previous weeks, increases had ranged from R$ 5 to R$ 7/@.

There were moderate gains in some states (Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais) and more significant ones in others (Goiás, Rondonia), while prices remained stable in São Paulo. Notably, the price in Mato Grosso —Brazil’s largest cattle-producing state— has surpassed that of São Paulo, the country's top consumption center and usually the benchmark for the highest prices. According to Agrifatto, some believe Mato Grosso may be where the cattle cycle reversal is beginning, with tight supply and relatively short bookings of around six days. In São Paulo, bookings are agreed at eight business days from the deal’s closing.

On average, bookings across Brazil remained stable at seven business days, according to Agrifatto.

In the B3 futures market, finished male prices also showed minor fluctuations during the week. The July contract remains about R$ 10/@ above the spot price, and the October contract about R$ 30/@ higher, indicating expectations of rising prices in the second half of the year.

In the wholesale market, beef carcass prices posted moderate gains during the week, mainly driven by increased prices for forequarter cuts. Agrifatto also reports that pork prices increased, while chicken meat remains under downward pressure.