Stronger dollar lowers wool prices

The weighted indicator for the main trading currencies has lifted 2.97 percent compared to the last North Island sale on 1st October and 4.67 percent against the previous South Island sale.

Of the 8,423 bales on offer 75.4 percent sold.

Dawson reports that compared to the South Island sale on 24th September, Merino Fleece 17 to 23.5 microns were 2 to 6 percent cheaper in-line with currency movements and high seasonal volumes.

Mid Micron Fleece 24 to 27 microns were 2 to 4 percent cheaper with 28 to 30.5 microns down 7 to 9 percent.

Compared to the North Island sale on 1st October, Fine Crossbred Full Fleece 31.5 and 32 microns were 3 to 4 percent dearer with 32.5 and 33 microns up to 9.5 percent dearer as limited volumes pressured this segment. Fine Crossbred Second Shears 32 to 35 microns were generally 1.5 to 5 percent cheaper with shorter types under continued pressure.

Coarse Crossbred Fleece were up to 1 percent easier.

Coarse Second Shears were 1.5 to 2.5 percent cheaper.

Short Oddments were down 1.5 to 3.5 percent.

Well spread interest with Western Europe and China dominating the Fine Wool sector with Australasia and China strong on the fine and coarse crossbred wools, supported by Middle East, United Kingdom and India sparingly.

Next sale on 15th October comprises approximately 5,000 bales down 30 percent on anticipated roster volumes.