In this week's indicator report, we look back over 2025 and what the indicators show us for both cattle and sheep.
The AuctionsPlus Young Cattle Indicator (AYCI) recorded strong gains throughout 2025, peaking at 1,035c/kg DW in August.
The year began at its lowest point of 737c/kg DW, before trending steadily higher through the first half of the year. This upward momentum culminated in a sharp August surge, driven by tightening supply and restocker demand.
Following the peak, the indicator eased to 915c/kg DW in October, before quickly recovering to finish the year just below its annual high, signalling sustained market confidence.
While the AYCI remains well below the record highs of 1,300c/kg DW reached in 2022, the 2025 performance represents a significant recovery from the cycle low of 431c/kg DW recorded in October 2023, underscoring the positive trajectory of the young cattle market.
The AuctionsPlus Restocker Lamb Indicator (ARLI) recorded strong gains throughout 2025, reaching price levels in the second half of the year not seen in the past five years, and peaking at 1,384c/kg DW in September.
The year opened at 822c/kg DW - the third-highest opening level of the past five years - before easing to 747c/kg DW in February. From there, the indicator gained momentum through the second half of the year, underpinned by improved southern seasonal conditions, tight lamb supply, and strong returns encouraging restocker participation. Buyers showed confidence to restock amid a solid forward outlook.
After reaching its September peak, the ARLI softened to 1,116c/kg DW in late October, before partially recovering and finishing the year slightly lower.
Overall, the ARLI - fuelled by constrained supply and favourable returns - ended 2025 at its highest level in five years. With supportive market conditions expected to persist, if not strengthen, into the new year, sentiment remains positive, and the indicator is well positioned to continue trending higher into 2026.