More lamb on offer, firm prices: market signals need to be read together

Australia’s cattle and sheep market this week shows how a price-only reading can mislead. Meat & Livestock Australia reports that national cattle yardings fell 7% to 54,403 head, despite the return to a full selling week after public holidays. Rain forecasts encouraged some producers to retain stock. All cattle indicators rose, with weekly movements ranging from 0.4% to 11%.