The wool market edged lower this week, with the EMI falling 2¢ to 1,197¢/kg, in what proved to be a tale of three markets in a shortened week. With Fremantle returning to the selling program, the national offering rose by 6,076 bales compared to the previous week. There were 28,882 bales available to the trade nationally, and the national pass-in rate rose to 8.3%, reflecting pockets of seller resistance, particularly in the west.
The Northern Indicator eased 6¢ to 1,225¢, with reports suggesting buyers are favouring well-prepared lots exhibiting strength above 35 N/ktex and minimal vegetable matter. The Southern Indicator lifted 1¢ to 1,179¢, buoyed by demand for fleece yielding over 68%. In contrast, the Western Indicator dropped 26¢ to 1,340¢.
Merino fleece performance was mixed this week. In Melbourne, the 17 MPG rose 4¢ to 1,662¢/kg, while the 17.5 MPG gained 5¢. The 18 MPG held firm at 1,597¢, but broader types like the 19 MPG softened, falling between 13¢ and 41¢ across selling centres. In Sydney, results were also mixed, with the fine 17 MPG down 20¢, while the 19.5 MPG rose 12¢ to 1,494¢. Fremantle was the hardest hit, with finer types such as the 18 MPG falling by 50¢.
Crossbreds provided a bright spot. The 26 MPG in Melbourne added 21¢, Cardings also found support, with the Southern MC up 24¢. Fremantle’s finer skirtings under 17.5 microns and less than 3% VM were particularly well supported.
This week in Mecardo, Andrew Woods provided an update on wool market trends to look at shifting demand dynamics (read more here). He found that wool production is down due to dry conditions, rising costs, and lower sheep numbers. Merino wool volumes are down 12%, hitting their lowest since the post-Reserve Price Scheme era, especially in broader micron categories. And finally, that non-merino wool is down 14% but stays within its usual range.
The week ahead….
With just two weeks left in the season and next week’s roster falling to 21,766 bales, only Melbourne and Sydney will be in operation
The higher Australian dollar has prompted questions about the likely impact on local extensive agricultural commodity prices. Mecardo has covered this topic before. The relationship
The Australian wool market extended its winning streak this week, with the Eastern Market Indicator climbing 16¢ to finish at 1,693¢/kg ahead of next week’s
Greasy wool prices have increased markedly this season, in the absence of any substantial improvement in macroeconomic indicators or major apparel fibre prices, the usual
The Australian wool market recovered from the losses recorded in the previous series, with prices lifting across both selling days. The Eastern Market Indicator rose
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.
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.
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.
Fine wool slips, broader types soften
The Northern Indicator eased 6¢ to 1,225¢, with reports suggesting buyers are favouring well-prepared lots exhibiting strength above 35 N/ktex and minimal vegetable matter. The Southern Indicator lifted 1¢ to 1,179¢, buoyed by demand for fleece yielding over 68%. In contrast, the Western Indicator dropped 26¢ to 1,340¢.
Merino fleece performance was mixed this week. In Melbourne, the 17 MPG rose 4¢ to 1,662¢/kg, while the 17.5 MPG gained 5¢. The 18 MPG held firm at 1,597¢, but broader types like the 19 MPG softened, falling between 13¢ and 41¢ across selling centres. In Sydney, results were also mixed, with the fine 17 MPG down 20¢, while the 19.5 MPG rose 12¢ to 1,494¢. Fremantle was the hardest hit, with finer types such as the 18 MPG falling by 50¢.
Crossbreds provided a bright spot. The 26 MPG in Melbourne added 21¢, Cardings also found support, with the Southern MC up 24¢. Fremantle’s finer skirtings under 17.5 microns and less than 3% VM were particularly well supported.
This week in Mecardo, Andrew Woods provided an update on wool market trends to look at shifting demand dynamics (read more here). He found that wool production is down due to dry conditions, rising costs, and lower sheep numbers. Merino wool volumes are down 12%, hitting their lowest since the post-Reserve Price Scheme era, especially in broader micron categories. And finally, that non-merino wool is down 14% but stays within its usual range.
The week ahead….
With just two weeks left in the season and next week’s roster falling to 21,766 bales, only Melbourne and Sydney will be in operation
Have any questions or comments?
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Data sources: AWEX, AWI, Mecardo
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Have any questions or comments?
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The Australian wool market extended its winning streak this week, with the Eastern Market Indicator climbing 16¢ to finish at 1,693¢/kg ahead of next week’s
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Greasy wool prices have increased markedly this season, in the absence of any substantial improvement in macroeconomic indicators or major apparel fibre prices, the usual
Wool market finds its footing
The Australian wool market recovered from the losses recorded in the previous series, with prices lifting across both selling days. The Eastern Market Indicator rose
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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.