| 09/02/06           Beef producers should do their sums carefully before entering
                into a forward contract, says EBLEX. BEEF farmers have been cautioned to take great care before locking
                themselves into a forward contract which could see them out of
                pocket.
 Although these contracts can be a useful way to reduce the financial
                risks of beef production and help buyers get the right cattle
                delivered at the right time, there can be pitfalls for the producer,
                says the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX).
 
 In its latest “Beef Action For Profit” leaflet, beef
                farmers are told they need to understand how forward contracts
                work and whether they are right for their own business before
                taking the plunge.
 
 Guidelines for use when considering such a contract include:
 
                Nick Allen, EBLEX Senior Regional
                  Manager, said: “Forward
                  contracts can be extremely useful but they don’t suit
                  every producer.”Understanding
                  production costs and cattle performance to assess the financial
                  implications of a forward contract.Choosing the right sort
                  of forward contract for your system Ensuring details
                  of specifications required are set in advance - and that
                  they are realistic.Knowing the financial penalty for failing
                  to deliver is usually based on the cost difference of filling
                  the contract at market prices. 
 
 
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