Monday, September 9, 2024

Monday Morning Dairy Market Update - Uncertainty Ahead of Spot Trading

OPENING CALLS:

Class III Milk Futures: MIxed
Class IV Milk Futures: 4 to 8 Higher
Butter Futures: Steady to 1 Higher

OUTSIDE MARKET OPENING CALLS:

Corn Futures: Steady to 1 Lower
Soybean Futures: 5 to 7 Higher
Soybean Meal Futures: Mixed
Wheat Futures: 2 to 4 Lower

MILK:

Class III futures showed some light trading activity overnight but traders did not seem to have much conviction that prices might weaken. The underlying cash was higher in all categories Friday suggesting, further strength today. However, the volatility will keep traders cautious as higher prices could increase selling interest. Milk production continues to decrease but there are signs production is beginning to level off. Cooler weather will improve cow comfort, which should increase milk production.

CHEESE:

Cheese prices may move higher as the month progresses. However, that will not be without price retracements as higher prices will increase selling interest. The block cheese price is quite a bit higher than a year ago, reflecting the current lower level of milk production and the lower output of American cheese as reported on the Dairy Products report.

BUTTER:

The butter price may retest the high of two weeks ago before selling pressure might increase and limit further gains. More cream was available for churning last week but supply will tighten again. Last year, the butter price exploded and rose rapidly throughout the month. The price is already high this year and should not be as volatile.




August Milk Production in the United States down 0.1 Percent

August Milk Production up 0.1 Percent          Milk production in the 24 major States during August totaled 18.1 billion pounds, up 0.1 perc...