LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — U.S. feedlots are expected to show slightly lighter October and November cattle inventories as analysts anticipate modest declines in placements and marketings heading into winter. The latest pre-report trade estimates suggest on-feed totals remain below year-ago levels, signaling tighter feeder supplies that could influence pricing and marketing strategies through early 2026.
Analysts surveyed ahead of the USDA’s delayed Cattle on Feed report project November 1 on-feed inventories around 97.8% of last year, with October placements near 92.1% and marketings near 92.4%. Estimates for October 1 similarly point to softer activity, including placements at 91.2% and marketings at 95.9%, reflecting disruptions from the recent government shutdown that delayed reporting.
For cattle producers, shrinking placements may tighten fed-cattle supplies later in 2026, while steady marketings indicate continued movement despite cost pressures. Feedlots may face firmer feeder prices if numbers remain below normal levels. Lower cash and future prices may also signal that the market is ready for expansion through heifer retention and herd rebuilding.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Early estimates point to slightly tighter cattle supplies, reinforcing the need to monitor prices and timing for winter marketing.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
The DOJ’s new antitrust probe could reshape beef-packer behavior, with potential impacts on fed-cattle prices, processor margins, and long-term competition across the supply chain.
November 10, 2025 10:35 AM
·
Verified U.S. data show real leather’s carbon footprint is lower than advertised — an edge for the American cattle industry in both marketing and byproduct value.
November 07, 2025 11:32 AM
·
Stagger buys and diversifies fertilizer sources — watch CBAM, India’s tenders, and Brazil’s import pace to time urea, phosphate, and potash purchases.
November 07, 2025 11:16 AM
·
Tight cattle supplies keep prices high for ranchers, but policy shifts, export barriers, and packer losses signal a volatile road ahead for the beef supply chain.
November 07, 2025 11:02 AM
·
Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
November 06, 2025 03:03 PM
·
For tight margins, contract grazing leverages existing acres into new income streams and spreads risk. Here are some tips for row crop farmers looking to diversify.
November 06, 2025 02:45 PM
·
AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares how passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act could give the dairy industry a needed boost.
November 06, 2025 02:31 PM
·
Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Robby Kirkland explains how the ongoing U.S.-Mexico border closure impacts feed yards that rely on Mexican cattle due to the New World Screwworm.
November 06, 2025 12:01 PM
·
Global nitrogen and phosphate prices remain high despite improved supply fundamentals, with limited Chinese exports and stronger fall applications tightening availability.
November 06, 2025 11:16 AM
·
