Info: Left-Click below on  links to run software and Right-Click to Download....

MACRO ALERT: Some of these spreadsheets contain macros to help print results for the program. You can download these spreadsheets to your computer but may still get a warning about macros. If you choose to open the spreadsheet on the Web, you may get a security message if your security settings on your computer are set at the highest level. If you get a security warning, click okay. The program will open on the Web, but the print macros will not work.

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Software

 Exploring Futures and Options Contracts and Margin Accounting:  (LEFT CLICK TO RUN, RIGHT CLICK TO DOWNLOAD)

This program allows comparison of levels of price protection offered by futures and options contracts.  The user is can explore the mechanics of futures and options while entering their own specific examples.  Results, net revenue and costs per unit, are adjusted for the differences in the way futures and options contracts are implemented and the transactions cost incurred for each type of contract and lumpy characteristics of futures and options contracts.  The user is also provided sample margin accounting transactions so they can see what happens to a margin account balance as price moves up or down with a futures contract. 

 Margin

Designed to show the basic steps in margin accounting but is not detailed enough to show all possible transactions that can take place in a margin account. 

 Marketing Grain

Will allow you to analyze the price protection available from using the futures and options markets for small grains.  Can also be used as an educational tool to learn how the futures and options markets work.  Allows individuals to calculate the cost of production calculations and includes basis data for Montana calves from 1992-present.  View/download a pdf file.

 Marketing Livestock

Use to analyze the price protection available from using the futures and options markets for livestock.  Can also be used as an educational tool to learn how the futures and options markets work.  Allows individuals to calculate cost of production calculations and includes basis data for Montana small grains. 

 Cash, Futures, Basis Data (Revised January 2012) 

Average monthly futures and feeder cattle prices and average monthly cash prices and basis data for selected weight groups for steers and heifers from 1983 through 2006. Steer cash price and basis data for 400 to 500 pounds, 500 to 600 pounds, 600 to 700 pounds and 700 to 800 pounds. Heifer cash price and basis data for 400 to 500 pounds, 500 to 600 pounds, 600 to 700 pounds.