Full Show | 1 August

In this episode:Market Insights | Buyers return to feeder calf market1:38 – AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie has an update on the early feeder calf sales, with rearers returning to the rails to buy up young stock. Input costs are still stubbornly high but Fiona says there’s a good margin there for careful operators.Feature | Genetic opportunities in dairy beef production7:07 – Wyoming rancher Lee Leachman discusses the evolution of Leachman Cattle, a leading seed stock operation in the United States, focusing on profit-driven genetics and the growing market for beef on dairy. He shares insights on the genetic advancements in dairy beef production, the challenges and opportunities in New Zealand's livestock market, and the comparative advantages of grass-fed beef in both countries.Feds Focus | Confidence returns to sector17:15 – Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford joins the show to discuss the latest farm confidence survey that shows farmers are feeling good right now. Wayne says there are a number of factors, including  strong farmgate returns and a better regulatory environment.The Final Word22:02 – No one has emerged from the great butter debate looking all that good. But while fingers are pointed and responsibility shirked, the fact remains that many New Zealanders can’t afford to buy our staple spread.