MartWatch data shows the trade to have steadied overall. However, in recent days, many mart managers have said that the trade for good-quality forward types has improved slightly once again.

Feeder buyers continue to be active for all good-quality steers and heifers. Some specialist finishers are also currently sourcing Angus and Hereford cattle.

Farmers are the main source of demand for lighter stores and for weanling bulls so far and the prices of these types are holding quite firm.

Weanling bull prices are holding firm. But where plainer types are coming to the fore, they are being met with mixed demand as farmers focus on quality. For most of last year, the weanling heifer trade was dominated by farmer demand. However, in the past few weeks, there has been some export interest for weanling heifers for the Turkish market which has been a benefit to prices.

The cow trade continues to be strong, with all fleshed and short-keep types being met with strong factory agent and finisher demand.

Steers

Forward store bullocks over 600kg are steady, selling from €1.95/kg to €2.05/kg on average and up to €2.15/kg for R grades in stronger suckler areas. Average prices are running just 6c/kg or €36/head behind the same week last year. The average 550kg bullock is currently making €1,100, with a U grade making €1,230/head. Lighter store bullocks from 400kg to 500kg are steady where good-quality types are on offer. R grades are making from €2.10/kg to €2.20/kg, with U grades making €2.45/kg or upwards of €1,100/head.

Heifers

The heifer trade has been steady also. In the case of forward types, there has been strong demand for short-keep heifers. Those over 600kg are making €1,230/head for average R grades and up to €1,380/head for better-quality U grades. Lighter store heifers are said to be a firm trade in most areas also. However, where plainer types are on offer, prices are back on last year. The average 450kg heifer is currently making €955, with U grades making over €1,050/head.

Weanlings

With little export activity yet for bulls, farmers are holding the trade firm. Good-quality bulls are a steady trade and where heavy bulls are on offer, feeders are active also. U grade bulls over 450kg are making €2.30/kg to €2.50/kg (€1,035 to €1,125/head). Bulls from 300kg to 400kg are steady and are selling from €2.25/kg to €2.35/kg, with the top third making from €2.60kg to €2.70/kg or €910 to €945/head. Heifer prices have seen an increase of €10 to €20/head resulting from increased demand.

Slight improvement in mart prices in recent days

MartWatch data shows the trade to have steadied overall. However, in recent days many mart managers have said that the trade for good-quality forward types has improved slightly once again.