AUSTRALIAN WEEKLY MARKET REPORT
Comment
With the softer close last week that was leading into a 55,000 bale wool sale, there was no doubt a small degree of caution prior to Tuesday’s sale. While prices were lower, we certainly didn’t see the market as volatile as some. AWEX reports had quite a correction on Tuesday. However, the supply of the best types, particularly 17.5 micron and finer was more restricted and difficult to compare to the bales available last week. We didn’t see the market move so much when comparing good types. This was more evident in Sydney than Melbourne. The lower passed in rate in Sydney is a reflection of this and would indicate a more consistent market than what was recorded. Prices were much more stable in the middle and later part of the week, more of a reflection of our feeling in the sale room. The sale room ‘feeling’ is hard to describe and measure, but it was clear to us that buyers were more confident to buy. They were not as cautious, and prices held very well to finish in Melbourne on a more positive tone.
AWEX Eastern Indicator compared with 12/01/24
Eastern Indicator
Close: 1196
Change in % -1.4
Authentico Index Values
15 Micron
Close: 3446
Change in %: unchanged
16 Micron
Close: 2441
Change in %: +2.8
17 Micron
Close: 2064
Change in %: -1.1
18 Micron
Close: 1811
Change in %: unchanged
19 Micron
Close: 1635
Change in %: +0.3
Authentico Indicator
Close: 2159
Change in %: +0.3
Forecast
Only 41,000 bales are available nationally next week. When compared to the 55,000 bales initially rostered for sale in week 29, it reflects a 25% reduction in volume in one week. This would certainly have plaid on the minds of buyers during Thursday’s sale. Fine fleece and pieces continue to be those most keenly sought after. They are also in small supply. Buyers are finding it difficult to source anything sub 16.5 micron at the moment.
Auction offering – current week
| Market | Sale | Offered | Sold | Passed In |
| North | S 29 | 13704 | 13085 | 4.5% |
| South | M 29 | 26214 | 23976 | 8.5% |
| West | F 29 | 9987 | 8881 | 11.1% |
Auction offering – next week
| Market | Sale | Sale days | Volume |
| North | S 30 | T / W | 9081 |
| South | M 30 | T / W | 22418 |
| West | F 30 | T / W | 10234 |
If you want to see the complete Wool Sales Roster click here.