The quality of some cattle loans has declined somewhat after sizable losses in the cattle industry. Most cattle producers still have strong balance sheets, however, and an uptick in the demand for feeder cattle loans suggests producers are gearing up to take advantage of the recent increase in cattle prices. Wages and Prices Labor markets were still tight last month, and there was some continued evidence of wage pressures. Manufacturers report skilled and unskilled workers remained in short supply, and a number of companies say they have responded by increasing wages. Prices held steady at the retail level and rose for some manufacturing and construction materials.
Retailers expect no major price changes in coming months.
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