US cattle inventory shows marginal growth, signaling potential herd rebuilding phase

USDA data indicates a slight increase in the US cattle herd, marking a potential reversal of the multi-year contraction trend driven by drought and high feed costs. While the growth is marginal, it suggests producers are beginning to retain heifers for breeding, which could stabilize long-term beef supply and pricing. The sustainability of this trend remains uncertain due to ongoing volatility in feed costs and regional climate conditions.