AI’s Growing Role In Risk Mitigation
January 1, 2026
AI continues to deepen its role in apparel sourcing. Most
MATERIALS | Mar 20, 2025
➤ Cotton futures have stabilized in the 66-67 cents range since mid-March, rebounding from 2020 lows of 63 cents earlier in the month, in part due to expectations of stronger global consumption.
➤ Geopolitical factors have been exerting upward pressure on oil prices, however this is being balanced by traders expecting additional supply to enter the market after OPEC+ announced plans to increase production by 138K bpd in April, marking its first output increase since 2022.
➤ Wool has increased 88 AUD/100Kg or +7.63% since the beginning of 2025.
➤ Synthetic fiber and yarns prices face downward pressure from uncertain global demand and expectations of lower oil prices.
SOURCING & SUPPLY CHAIN
AI continues to deepen its role in apparel sourcing. Most
By removing fixed assets and prioritizing different KPI’s, Lever Style
As tariffs and geopolitics reshape sourcing strategies, brands are exploring
US tariff policy has become the dominant driver of short‑term
Not just the US, now other countries are leaning into
Analysts expect most materials prices to remain under pressure in
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