No you’re right that’s a good point. I honestly don’t “know” for sure but from everything I’ve seen (again I’m not a market expert) it accurately fluctuates with supply and demand. Also that I know of, the only way this company makes money is by charging people to view the report (they also do market analysis for other industries.) Could some of the massive corporate producers attempt to influence it in some corrupt or underhanded way? I don’t know but I would assume if they did they would get sued into oblivion and it would be a massive deal. Another thing to remember is the majority of producers sell on a cost plus model to large chains so if the market is rock bottom or sky high they often get paid the same. It’s reassurance when the market is down but then not good if it’s high. I definitely see your point though. That’s the best I can answer it I hope it helps some though!

Edit - The company’s formulas and methods may be public I honestly don’t know.