Beef futures mixed as demand wanes ahead of July 4 - CME Hog prices rise on strong demand, seasonal buying pattern26 June 2025 26 June 2025 1 minute read 1 minute read By: By: Global Ag Media North AmericaChicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) cattle futures ended mixed on Wednesday as market players weighed waning demand from consumers and retailers while hog futures turned higher, following a seasonal pattern, Reuters reported, citing traders. Near record-high beef prices may be depressing consumer demand, which typically declines after the upcoming US Independence Day holiday. The choice boxed beef cutout value rose 69 cents to $394.94 per cwt and select cuts dropped $6.12 to $376.29 per cwt. CME lean hog futures ended down, with actively traded August settling up 0.275 cents to 111.225 cents per pound. Pork demand has remained strong, traders said, as high beef prices have encouraged consumers to turn to more budget-friendly pork.