Omaha Steaks CEO says beef market now facing ‘pressure’ tariffs can’t fix. Is it time to diversify your diet?
From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-13 13:01:00
As summer grilling season begins, Americans face rising beef prices. Government data shows an 8.6% increase in U.S. beef and veal prices over the past year. Ground beef spiked 9.9%, roasts rose 9.5%, and steaks were up 6.3%. Supply shortages are to blame, with the lowest cattle count since 1951.
Omaha Steaks CEO Nate Rempe warns that tight supply will continue to drive prices higher, with no quick resolution in sight. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported the lowest cattle count since 1951, leading to an 8.6% increase in beef prices over the past year. Ground beef, roasts, and steaks all saw significant price hikes.
Inflation is impacting food prices, with the CPI food index surging 26% in the last five years. The USDA projects a further 2.9% increase in food prices in 2025. While headline inflation has eased from its peak, essentials like food remain expensive. Savvy investors can protect against inflation by investing in real estate.
Real estate can be a hedge against inflation, with property values and rental income rising as costs increase. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index has surged over 50% in the last five years. Investing in real estate can offer a way to preserve wealth when the dollar is losing value.
For accredited investors, Homeshares provides access to the U.S. home equity market with a minimum investment of $25,000. Offering risk-adjusted returns of 14% to 17%, Homeshares allows investors to gain exposure to owner-occupied homes in top U.S. cities without the hassle of property management. Non-accredited investors can enter the market with platforms like Arrived for as little as $100.
Gold remains a valuable asset for investors seeking protection against inflation. With its scarcity and safe haven status, gold has surged over 40% in the past year. Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, emphasizes the importance of including gold in a resilient portfolio. Investing in gold through a gold IRA with Priority Gold can provide tax advantages and protect retirement funds. Farmland is a natural hedge against inflation, with rising food prices increasing its value. FarmTogether allows investors to buy stakes in U.S. farmland, potentially earning from leasing fees and crop sales.