ICE cotton futures rose above 90 cents/lb on Thursday for the first time since early 2024, gaining more than 10% month-to-date as worsening crop conditions and a firmer grain complex underpin prices. Lakefront Futures said field inspections show marked deterioration, which is supporting the market. USDA’s latest crop progress report put U.S. cotton good-to-excellent at 37% versus 54% a year ago. A stronger-than-expected El Niño is altering rainfall patterns and could sustain pressure on supplies

ICE cotton futures rose above 90 cents/lb on Thursday for the first time since early 2024, gaining more than 10% month-to-date as worsening crop conditions and a firmer grain complex underpin prices. Lakefront Futures said field inspections show marked deterioration, which is supporting the market. USDA’s latest crop progress report put U.S. cotton good-to-excellent at 37% versus 54% a year ago. A stronger-than-expected El Niño is altering rainfall patterns and could sustain pressure on supplies. Chicago wheat climbed to a three-year high, adding cross-commodity support amid reports Russia may step up strikes on Ukraine, raising concerns about prolonged disruption to Black Sea grain exports.