STOCK MARKET.

Hawera Star, Volume XLV, 5 December 1925, Page 5

STOCK MARKET.

UNCERTAINTY IN ALL CLASSES

A DIFFICULT POSITION

There is little, if any, improvement in the general conditions of the markets for stock, and this applies all over the Dominion, being perhaps more noticeable in those parts which experienced the worst and most unseasonable weather at a critical time. In many parts the grass that rushed up during the mild spell some time . ago has started to go to seed. This is quite unseasonable, and no good for stock of any kind. It creates unforeseen difficulties for farmers, and makes business generally very uncertain. Reports from all centres are much the same—dragging markets, no one feeling disposed to buy because of the uncertainty of the future, and holders of fat stock inclined to keep off the markets as long as possible. Neither beef nor mutton has been anything like stabilised, nor can they be until conditions generally improve. The freezing companies’ prices are only moderate, and are considerably below those ruling at this time last year. The wool allies have shown a general all-round falling tendency, though they are still good when compared with normal times. Another difficulty facing the dairy farmers is the failure in many places of root crops to strike well. Reports come in from all over the district of such failures, though the position will be somewhat improved by yesterday’s rain and to-day’s sun if it has not come too late. The continual cold winds are keeping back stock and making conditions all round very trying. Considering everything the recent sales reported round the district must be regarded as fairly satisfactory. In may cases where stock has not reached the owners’ reserves sales have been effected subsequently. Still, the future is not at all clear, and a distinct imnrovement all round would be welcomed bv all connected with the industry.