USDA Reports Stabilization in U.S. Cattle Herd Numbers
The USDA's latest cattle inventory report indicates that the U.S. cattle herd has stopped shrinking, with 94.2 million head of cattle and calves recorded as of July 1. This marks the first increase since 2018, with beef replacement heifers climbing by 3%. However, the number of beef cows has decreased by 1% from the previous year, and the calf crop is the smallest since 1941. The report also highlights a 2% increase in cattle on feed, totaling 13.2 million head. Despite these changes, the overall supply of feeder cattle remains tight, suggesting potential challenges for beef supply through 2028. 
