Cattle prices are expected to rise again this year as drought conditions dampen herd expansion, according to CattleFax’s annual outlook presented last week during the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention in Orlando.

“There will be a chase for feeder cattle this year, which should support prices,” said CattleFax COO Mike Murphy.

Currently, the U.S. has the lowest total beef cow inventory in 50 years, estimated at 28.2 million head. Meanwhile, domestic consumer demand for beef remains...