In the search for some “green shoots” of price recovery in the wool market, the fine end of the clip (especially in Melbourne), and the Cardings (especially in Sydney) demonstrated modest recoveries this week.
This was on the back of an reduced offering from last week by 12,600 bales, resulting in a low clearance of 18,195 bales. Average weekly clearance for the season to date sits at 27,146 bales.
The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) fell another 16¢ to close this week at 929¢. The AUD was slightly weaker at US$0.719 which dragged the EMI in USD terms also 16¢ lower, closing at 668¢. Fremantle did not sell so the Western Market Indicator remained unchanged at 989¢. The offering was just 20,488 bales, and with a pass-in rate of 11.2% nationally, 18,195 bales were sold, 6,444 bales fewer on last week.
The EMI was lower due to the fact the medium micron categories were all lower, however fine types showed a stronger tone. In Melbourne, the 17 MPG indicator lifted 23 cents, although for contrast the 20 & 21 MPG’s were softer by 41 & 46¢ respectively.
To add perspective, comparing the situation to a year ago, for this week 1,000 more bales were sold, however the dollar value was just $19.7 million, for a year to date total of $191.06 million. For the corresponding period last year, the dollar value for the week was $36.99 million, for a combined value for the season to date of $241 million.
This week on Mecardo, Andrew Woods had a look at the fine wool premiums, noting that “16 micron fleece has now returned to a “normal” premium over 19 micron fleece. The rise in the premiums is a good example of how supply influences market premiums and discounts but not the overall trends and cycles of the greasy wool market.This reinforces the detrimental impact that drought has on fine wool prices, as an over-supply of drought effected wool weighs on the fine wool market.
AWEX reported that the prices for Merino fleece this week was “varied”, dependant on micron. Fine types showed a dearer trend while the medium Merino and crossbred wool had another down week.
Cardings reversed their trend of the past 2 months to post increases, with a 42¢ lift in Sydney while Melbourne showed a more modest 6¢ gain.
The week ahead….
Next week Fremantle returns to selling which will add supply pressure back onto the market.
There are 32,900 bales listed which will be a huge challenge in this demand scenario, noting that this week the market absorbed just 18,100 bales.
This week’s market continued to show stronger prices despite the increased bales on offer as sellers responded to the rising market. The Eastern Market Indicator
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Fine wool & Cardings show life
The Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) fell another 16¢ to close this week at 929¢. The AUD was slightly weaker at US$0.719 which dragged the EMI in USD terms also 16¢ lower, closing at 668¢. Fremantle did not sell so the Western Market Indicator remained unchanged at 989¢. The offering was just 20,488 bales, and with a pass-in rate of 11.2% nationally, 18,195 bales were sold, 6,444 bales fewer on last week.
The EMI was lower due to the fact the medium micron categories were all lower, however fine types showed a stronger tone. In Melbourne, the 17 MPG indicator lifted 23 cents, although for contrast the 20 & 21 MPG’s were softer by 41 & 46¢ respectively.
To add perspective, comparing the situation to a year ago, for this week 1,000 more bales were sold, however the dollar value was just $19.7 million, for a year to date total of $191.06 million. For the corresponding period last year, the dollar value for the week was $36.99 million, for a combined value for the season to date of $241 million.
This week on Mecardo, Andrew Woods had a look at the fine wool premiums, noting that “16 micron fleece has now returned to a “normal” premium over 19 micron fleece. The rise in the premiums is a good example of how supply influences market premiums and discounts but not the overall trends and cycles of the greasy wool market.This reinforces the detrimental impact that drought has on fine wool prices, as an over-supply of drought effected wool weighs on the fine wool market.
AWEX reported that the prices for Merino fleece this week was “varied”, dependant on micron. Fine types showed a dearer trend while the medium Merino and crossbred wool had another down week.
Cardings reversed their trend of the past 2 months to post increases, with a 42¢ lift in Sydney while Melbourne showed a more modest 6¢ gain.
The week ahead….
Next week Fremantle returns to selling which will add supply pressure back onto the market.
There are 32,900 bales listed which will be a huge challenge in this demand scenario, noting that this week the market absorbed just 18,100 bales.
Have any questions or comments?
Click on graph to expand
Click on graph to expand
Click on graph to expand
Data sources: AWEX, Mecardo
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Have any questions or comments?
Merino wool price cycles
Merino (and crossbred) wool prices appear to be working through the bottom of a price cycle, driven by weak economic conditions in Europe and China
Supply pressure spooks sellers
It can be difficult to see the forest for the trees at times, particularly when the details have presented the best opportunities for wool sellers
The market continues positive start to 2025
This week’s market continued to show stronger prices despite the increased bales on offer as sellers responded to the rising market. The Eastern Market Indicator
AWTA volumes – east looks normal and the west continues to downsize
It is not hard to find doom and gloom commentary about the wool industry, which is fairly typical of the wool and sheep industries swinging
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Independent analysis and outlook for wool, livestock and grain markets delivered to you as it’s published
Listen to the podcast
Join the Mecardo team for the Commodity Conversations podcast, where we provide short weekly market recaps and longer conversations with guests to discuss the drivers and trends in livestock, grain and fibre markets.
MEET THE TEAM
Our team of market analysts are recognised as leaders in Australian Ag market analysis, providing invaluable insights to help you navigate the ever-changing commodity landscape.
SERVICES AND CAPABILITIES STATEMENT BROCHURE
We don’t just bring you the most up to date market insights. Find out more about Mecardo’s services including risk management advisory, modelling, benchmarking, research & consultancy.