Last month's feeder calf placements data points to a changing supply situation for the beef market next quarter. Similarly, feedlots' fed cattle marketings show the industry is remaining current on inventories. Analysis of the fed cattle supply situation offers insight into trading strategies that could be profitable going forward.

Cattle on Feed Down, Hamburger Up Tomorrow USDA releases its monthly Cattle on Feed report. The industry expectation is for the total number of cattle on feed in the U.S. as of 1 November to be 94.6 percent of a year ago. Pre-report estimates run from 93.5-96.0 percent. Placements in October are expected to be around 87 percent of last year. The range of estimates runs from 83-92 percent. Because October 2012...