Market Overview

On Friday, August 14, 2026, cotton futures entered a clear rally. The front‑month contract closed 116 points higher, a total gain of 130 points, while the December contract increased by 40 points. Oil prices edged up by $1.15 per barrel, and the U.S. dollar index slipped 0.320 points.

Commitment of Traders Insight

Data from the weekly Commitment of Traders report, covering the week ending August 11, shows that managed money increased its net long position in cotton futures and options by 10,591 contracts. This brought the overall net long to 78,870 contracts as of Tuesday, marking the highest level in more than two years.

Export Sales Update

Export‑sales figures for the 2025/26 marketing year indicate accumulated business of 11.977 million bushels (RB), which is 107% of the USDA export projection. Accumulated shipments reached 11.198 million RB, completing the marketing year. New‑crop business stood at 4.026 million RB, a 25% rise compared with the same period last year.

Inventories and Pricing

The Cotlook A Index remained steady on Wednesday, August 13, trading at 94.95 cents. Certified cotton stocks reported by ICE fell by 1,779 bales, leaving a certified inventory of 75,985 bales. On Thursday, the Adjusted World Price was lifted by 190 points, settling at 68.19 cents per pound.

Futures Close Summary

  • Oct 26 Cotton closed at 83.6, up 124 points.
  • Dec 26 Cotton closed at 84.8, up 130 points.
  • Mar 27 Cotton closed at 86.68, up 126 points.

These movements underscore a robust demand environment for cotton, bolstered by strong managed‑money activity and favorable export‑sales data.