The US hide market began the week with Heavy Native Steers (HNS) trading down $1/piece from Friday’s close. Buyers suggested that there was trading for HNS at $33.50/piece last week, but this could not be confirmed by press time.
Heavy Texas Steer (HTS) hides trading was up $0.50/piece from the last reported levels. However, HTS hides continue to have negative pressure as there is minimal demand from the footwear industry, which typically buys HTS selections. The buying interest for HTS, as well as other branded hide selections, is for lower than current market levels in most cases. The seller that made the $25.50/piece trade had accepted $1.50/piece lower than their last reported trade from late November.
Hide supply is firm, but demand is weak. Hide supply is expected to grow while demand is expected to remain minimal during the holiday season.
More trading is expect to come later in the week after packers release offer lists tonight and tomorrow night.

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