It's very simple. The energy market was up real strongly. That's part of it, as people consistently make the link between crude oil prices, inflation and gold.

I think it was mostly upward momentum carrying over from the New York session.

The gold market is basically struggling to decisively overcome the $600 level. Until we see that, we may see some indecision on the part of traders on how to handle the market.

Later reports suggested they (Saudi forces) foiled the (attack) attempt, but you still have crude oil up over $2 a barrel.

That may offer some price support, and possibly diminish the bearishness associated with the anticipated jump in placement rates.

That could mitigate the bearish impact of a surge in placement rates, since the younger animals tend to take longer to finish, which in turn implies a wider spread of exit dates (as fed cattle) for them.