100-Dollar-Ideas
Says U.S. HRW wheat area also in need of more precip.
Meanwhile, Consumer Confidence Index retreats.
The decline was driven by sharp falls in international prices of cereals, sugar and oils.
Models split as to strength of episode this winter.
2011 turning out a banner year for pork and beef exports.
USDA is predicting 2012 pork imports and exports will be close to this year’s level.
Report expected to show All Hogs & Pigs at 101.3% of year-ago.
United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on December 1, 2011 was 65.9 million head.
Report garnered muted immediate reaction from the market.
Year-to-date pork production up 1.1% from year-ago, beef production down 0.3%.
The dollar amount of pork and beef shipped overseas is set to make a new record.
The food price index rose from last month, but the drop in energy was more than offsetting.
Says Commission should take immediate action and punish any wrongdoing.
USTR says they are considering appealing the panel’s decision.
Consumers’ attitude toward economy, job market improve.
Says Districts reported mostly favorable ag conditions.
Restaurant operators optimistic about growth in the months ahead.
This is good news for red meat demand as restaurant owners are more optimistic.
The normal season pattern is for a 15% drop in pork cutout from early September to late October.
Dressed cattle weights still 10 lbs. lighter than year-ago; hog weights down 3 lbs. from year-ago.
Signals pork demand wasn’t as strong as expected, or supplies were higher.
Slips back to a level last seen during the 2008-2009 recession.
One-category improvement in some Midwest areas.