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President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China could potentially increase US home construction costs by up to $29,000, affecting housing affordability for Americans. The tariffs on lumber from Canada, in particular, could contribute significantly to the cost increase. The National Association of Home Builders has expressed concerns about the impact of these tariffs on construction costs and housing affordability, while some industry experts argue that the overall effect on home prices may be limited. Despite Trump's recent decision to delay tariffs against Mexico and Canada, the uncertainty surrounding trade policies continues to impact the lumber industry and construction sector. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China could potentially increase US home construction costs by up to $29,000, affecting housing affordability for first-time buyers. The tariffs on lumber from Canada, in particular, could contribute significantly to the cost increase. The National Association of Home Builders has expressed concerns about the impact of these tariffs on construction costs and housing prices, with some Canadian lumber mills already planning price hikes in response. Despite Trump's efforts to lower housing prices, the tariffs may further strain the housing market and construction industry. [Extracted from the article]

President Donald Trump's tariff plans on major agricultural trade partners like Mexico, Canada, and China could disrupt markets and lead to food-price inflation. These tariffs may impact fruit and vegetable imports, corn and pork sales, soybeans, canola oil, fertilizers, and lumber. The potential consequences of these tariffs on commodity prices and consumer costs are uncertain, with concerns raised by politicians and industry experts about the impact on American farmers and consumers. [Extracted from the article]

Raw sugar futures have dropped to a four-month low due to improved supply forecasts from major producers like Brazil, India, and Thailand. The recent rains in Brazil have alleviated concerns about production, leading to a decrease in sugar prices. While consumption remains stagnant globally, the supply outlook is uncertain, with potential impacts on production in Brazil and India. Additionally, cocoa futures in New York saw a temporary increase in response to strong sales from Lindt & Spruengli AG, indicating resilient demand in the chocolate industry. [Extracted from the article]

Raw sugar prices increased due to lower sugar production in India, potentially leading to continued export restrictions. Indian sugar producers are seeking government permission to export surplus supplies, but domestic demand forecasts are lower than market estimates. Additionally, robusta coffee prices rose as wet weather in Vietnam disrupted harvesting, leading to a more measured increase in exports ahead of the Lunar New Year. Wheat prices in Chicago fell after four consecutive sessions of gains, while Paris wheat reached a six-month high due to concerns over tighter supplies and a weaker euro. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa has emerged as the top-performing commodity in 2024 due to supply shortages in West Africa, causing prices to nearly triple. The market's volatility has led to record-high prices and challenges for traders and chocolate makers. Concerns about weather, crop disease, and low futures liquidity continue to drive cocoa prices to unprecedented levels, impacting the industry's ability to fulfill contracts and maintain profitability. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have surged above $12,000 a ton in New York, hitting a new record due to concerns about reduced output in Ivory Coast, the top cocoa grower. Dry weather in West Africa is threatening production, with analysts predicting lower output in the coming months. The lack of rainfall and the Harmattan wind could further impact cocoa production, leading to a potential decrease in global supply. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have hit a new record in New York due to renewed supply concerns, potentially worsening the high costs affecting chocolatiers and consumers. Weak harvests in West Africa have led to a third straight supply deficit, with adverse weather further threatening farms and limiting the chance to rebuild global stockpiles. The surge in prices has led to concerns about a global deficit this season, with expectations that prices may ease next year as production increases and consumption decreases. [Extracted from the article]

Volcafe Ltd., a major coffee trader, has reduced its forecast for Brazil's arabica coffee production due to a severe drought. The country is expected to produce 34.4 million bags of arabica beans in the upcoming season, down from a previous estimate of 45.4 million bags. This decrease in production is likely to lead to a global coffee deficit of 8.5 million bags in the 2025-26 season, the fifth consecutive year of deficits. The drought has had a significant impact on coffee trees, leading to blossom failure and reduced flowering, which may result in higher coffee prices for consumers. [Extracted from the article]

Volcafe Ltd., a major coffee trader, has reduced its forecast for Brazil's arabica coffee production due to a severe drought. The country is expected to produce 34.4 million bags of arabica beans, down from a previous estimate of 45.4 million bags. This decrease in production is likely to lead to a global coffee deficit of 8.5 million bags in the 2025-26 season, causing arabica coffee futures to reach record highs. The drought has significantly impacted coffee trees in Brazil, leading to blossom failure and reduced crop yields, with implications for global coffee prices and market dynamics. [Extracted from the article]

Volcafe Ltd., a major coffee trader, has reduced its forecast for Brazil's arabica coffee production due to a severe drought in the country. The new estimate predicts Brazil will produce 34.4 million bags of arabica beans, down by 11 million bags from a previous estimate. This decrease in production is expected to lead to a global coffee deficit of 8.5 million bags in the 2025-26 season, the fifth consecutive year of deficits. The drought has caused significant blossom failure in coffee trees, impacting the global supply and demand equilibrium. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have surged to $10,000 a ton, the highest in nearly six months, due to concerns over lower output in West Africa. Dry weather in Ivory Coast and Ghana, the world's largest cocoa growers, is impacting production prospects, leading to a tightening balance sheet and low stock levels. Additionally, Arabica coffee prices are also on the rise, with the most-active contract in New York gaining as much as 4% on Friday. [Extracted from the article]

The premium for arabica coffee over robusta beans has widened to the most since April 2023 due to concerns over tight supplies of arabica. Arabica futures surged more than 6% in the last two days amid worries about lower production in Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer. Global coffee supplies are tightening after disappointing crops in Brazil, leading to discussions about potential demand switching. Additionally, New York cocoa futures climbed to the highest in almost six months, with markets watching to see if prices will reach the key $10,000 level. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges faced by chocolatiers due to the recent surge in cocoa prices, which have risen over 40% since October. Companies that depleted their cocoa stockpiles are now struggling to rebuild them at costly levels, while those who let their hedges slip are facing risks. The outlook for a cocoa surplus this season is uncertain, with concerns about potential supply disruptions in West Africa. Wall Street is anticipating higher cocoa prices, with money managers holding bullish positions. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com discusses how US lumber prices have been rising due to lower production in Canada and could see further increases following President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on Canadian goods. The tariffs could impact US lumber supplies, affecting housing affordability and exacerbating the nation's housing crisis. Despite the challenges, rebuilding efforts in hurricane-affected areas are slowly gaining momentum, which is expected to support strong lumber sales in the near future. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have dropped to a two-week low due to increased bean deliveries at ports in Ivory Coast, the world's largest cocoa producer. Heavy rains earlier disrupted cocoa farming, but improved weather conditions are expected to boost pod harvesting and drying. Mixed grindings data from different regions have raised concerns about cocoa prices impacting demand, with European processing showing a decline. [Extracted from the article]

Coffee futures for both arabica and robusta varieties have fallen in New York and London as traders keep an eye on inventories in Europe. The European Union's decision to postpone a law aimed at curbing deforestation has created uncertainty around certified coffee stockpiles held in European warehouses. However, the delay is not expected to offset the current tightness in global coffee supplies, with potential supply deficits due to dryness in Brazil and Vietnam. Commodity trading advisers are now liquidating positions in the cocoa and coffee markets. [Extracted from the article]

Coffee futures for both arabica and robusta varieties have fallen in New York and London as traders keep an eye on inventories in Europe. The European Union's decision to postpone a law aimed at curbing deforestation has created uncertainty around certified coffee stockpiles held in European warehouses. However, the delay is not expected to offset the current tightness in global coffee supplies, with potential supply deficits due to dryness in Brazil and Vietnam. Commodity trading advisers are now liquidating positions in the cocoa and coffee markets. [Extracted from the article]

Hurricane Helene has caused significant damage to agricultural operations in the southern US, particularly in Georgia. Poultry processing plants have been halted, and flocks have been severely affected. Cotton crops have been flattened, and pecan trees have been downed. The storm is expected to be more costly than Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused $2.5 billion in agricultural damage. The impact of the storm on poultry production may further constrain growth at a time when demand is surging. Cotton producers have also suffered losses, with some reporting yield losses of up to 35% or a total crop loss. The damage will have long-lasting effects on cotton gins, agribusinesses, and rural communities. [Extracted from the article]

Hurricane Helene has caused significant damage to agricultural operations in the southern US, particularly in Georgia. Poultry processing plants have been halted, and flocks have been severely affected. Cotton crops have been flattened, and pecan trees have been downed. The storm is expected to be more costly than Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused $2.5 billion in agricultural damage. The impact of the storm on poultry production may further constrain growth at a time when demand is surging. Cotton producers have also suffered losses, with some reporting yield losses of up to 35% or a total crop loss. The damage will have long-lasting effects on cotton gins, agribusinesses, and rural communities. [Extracted from the article]

Crop trader Olam Group Ltd. has been fined $3.3 million for delayed reporting of cotton sales to the US Department of Agriculture and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Olam delayed reporting five cotton sales to an Asian buyer in 2021, which were reported as much as five weeks late. The delay resulted in the publication of inaccurate and misleading information regarding cotton sales, potentially impacting the integrity of commodities pricing. Olam Group has agreed to pay the fine without admitting or denying the findings. [Extracted from the article]

Sugar futures have experienced a significant decline due to optimistic production forecasts in India and Thailand. Despite a poor outlook for Brazil, where drought and fires have impacted production, estimates for output in Asia, Europe, and Mexico have outweighed the negative effects. Global production is expected to surpass demand by 2 million tons in the upcoming season, with India's production estimated to reach 33.3 million tons. While some analysts speculate on possible exports next year, the market has corrected due to the anticipation of increased exports. [Extracted from the article]

Cotton futures experienced a significant increase in price due to concerns over severe weather and a decrease in production. The most-active contract rose by 4.3% in New York, reaching the highest intraday price in two months. Money managers are covering their short bets due to a combination of factors including the impact of Hurricane Francine, dryness in Brazil, and a weaker US dollar. Additionally, a storm threatening the Carolinas presents a risk to crops. The US Department of Agriculture has also revised its outlook for US and global cotton production, with lower yields contributing to the decrease. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have increased by up to 6.6% in New York due to concerns about tight global inventories, despite the expectation of larger harvests. Ghana, the second-largest cocoa producer, plans to raise the amount it pays farmers by 45%, which may encourage more exports and support future harvests. However, there is uncertainty about whether increased cocoa production will be enough to replenish inventories. Coffee futures, on the other hand, have fallen by up to 2% due to concerns about dry weather in Brazil, although strong exports from the country have partially offset these losses. The coffee market has been influenced by climate conditions, including drought in Vietnam and dry weather in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

According to the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), the global cocoa shortage is expected to worsen due to ongoing production challenges caused by unfavorable weather conditions and diseases. The organization's latest estimate predicts a deficit of 462,000 metric tons for the current year, which is 5.2% higher than their previous forecast. The report attributes the low supply to various factors such as adverse weather, aging trees, pests, and diseases affecting major cocoa-producing regions. The cocoa industry in West Africa, which has experienced poor harvests, is still struggling with issues like crop disease, and it takes several years for new trees to become productive. As a result, cocoa prices have risen significantly this year. [Extracted from the article]

Arabica coffee prices dropped the most since May, ending a recent rally that had brought prices to a two-year high. The drop in prices was attributed to dry weather in Brazil, the top coffee grower, which remains in a severe drought during a crucial time for crop development. Meanwhile, cocoa futures also fell due to forecasts of rain in West Africa, although cocoa prices have risen over 80% this year due to concerns about dry weather, disease, and a lack of fertilizers affecting output in the main growing region. [Extracted from the article]

Cotton prices have slightly increased in New York due to a tightening production outlook, although expectations of a global surplus continue to put pressure on prices. The US Department of Agriculture recently lowered its estimate for world cotton production, primarily driven by lower US cotton production. Dry weather in key US cotton-growing areas may further reduce production forecasts. The spinning industry is strategically carrying materials at lower prices, reducing market liquidity and pushing prices down. Cotton futures have dropped about 17% this year and are expected to increase production by almost 6% in the 2024-25 season. However, demand growth may be limited due to the uncertain global economy. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have experienced a significant increase in price due to concerns about dry weather in the top cocoa-producing countries of Ivory Coast and Ghana. The lack of rainfall has led to below-normal soil moisture and limited crop growth, raising fears about the upcoming cocoa season. However, analysts predict a recovery in cocoa production in West Africa starting in October, which could help balance the market. The impact of the weather on cocoa production is still uncertain, with some suggesting that above-average rainfall could increase the risk of disease. Additionally, the price movement in response to the weather forecast highlights the market's sensitivity to supply issues. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have reached a four-month low due to concerns about weak demand and increased supply. The price of cocoa has fallen by 4.4% to $6,650 a ton in New York, the lowest it has been since March. The end of the El Niño weather pattern and the potential shift to La Niña are expected to boost cocoa production, leading to a surplus in the upcoming season. However, analysts remain cautious about the rebounding production in Ivory Coast and Ghana, and predict a small deficit for the season. The high cocoa prices are expected to impact demand and result in a slowdown in grindings, which has already been observed by chocolate companies such as Nestle and Lindt & Spruengli. [Extracted from the article]

Global coffee prices are set to rise even further due to major supply disruptions in coffee-producing countries like Vietnam and Brazil. Sellers throughout the supply chain are raising prices and eliminating discounts to protect their margins, with many warning of more increases to come. Factors contributing to the price hikes include bad weather, emerging demand in markets like China, and a growing recognition that coffee traders and roasters have been underpaying farmers. As a result, coffee shops and retailers are raising their prices, and consumers may start to opt for cheaper alternatives or brew coffee at home. [Extracted from the article]

Food manufacturers are turning to cocoa-butter alternatives as the price of cocoa beans continues to rise. Cocoa butter prices have quadrupled in the past year, making alternatives that are 40% cheaper an attractive option for companies looking to keep chocolate affordable. These alternatives are being used in treats where chocolate is not the main flavor, such as coatings or drizzles. Companies are launching new product lines and experiencing increased demand for their cocoa-free products. While some consumers may be hesitant about ingredient swaps, manufacturers claim that their alternatives do not compromise on quality. [Extracted from the article]

Arabica coffee futures have dropped after a recent surge in prices, which reached a two-year high due to concerns about supply shortages. The most-active contract fell by 3% to $2.424 a pound in New York, after rising by as much as 7.7% in the previous session. The increase in prices is attributed to a decrease in production in major robusta coffee growers Vietnam and Indonesia, as well as emerging concerns about a weaker-than-expected harvest in Brazil. The market is currently volatile, and any news can have a significant impact on prices. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa prices are experiencing a prolonged decline due to favorable weather conditions in West Africa, which is expected to support crop growth. This comes after poor harvests led to a global supply shortage and a surge in cocoa prices. However, concerns about shortages persist, and the market remains volatile. Hedge fund manager Pierre Andurand remains optimistic about cocoa, citing tight supplies and strong demand. [Extracted from the article]

Suzano SA has decided to end its pursuit of acquiring International Paper Co. after the latter rejected its offers in favor of its own merger plans with another company. Suzano stated that it was unable to engage International Paper in serious negotiations and was not willing to increase its offer further. This decision clears the way for International Paper's plan to acquire DS Smith Plc. A takeover would have allowed Suzano, the world's largest pulp producer, to expand internationally and diversify its operations. [Extracted from the article]

J.M. Smucker Co., the owner of brands like Folgers and Dunkin', is planning to raise prices due to higher coffee costs. The company, which is the largest at-home coffee manufacturer in the US, will increase list prices for certain coffee products in response to a surge in the cost of robusta beans used in instant coffee. The price of premium arabica beans has also risen. The decision to raise prices comes after a drop in US retail net sales in the company's coffee segment, which was partly due to lower list prices. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa prices have risen due to concerns about supply shortages, which caused prices to reach record highs in April. The market has rebounded by over 40% since then, as the world is expected to face a significant deficit. Poor harvests in West Africa, the largest cocoa growing region, have contributed to the high prices. Low exports from Ivory Coast continue to support the bullish market, and the International Cocoa Organization has raised its deficit forecast. Traders are awaiting further demand cues before making any significant moves in the market. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures in New York have risen slightly in quieter trading as more analysts believe that this year's rally in cocoa prices has reached its peak. The market remains volatile, but the price swings have been smaller compared to recent weeks. Analysts predict that cocoa prices will not return to normal levels quickly due to a deficit in production. However, weakening global demand and production responses may help alleviate the uncertainty in current futures pricing. Some showers are expected in West African nations, which could aid crop growth and improve soil moisture. [Extracted from the article]

Chocolate makers such as Hershey, Nestle, and Mondelez are finding that cocoa prices have become detached from market fundamentals. While these companies have largely hedged their cocoa supply for 2024, executives believe that current prices are inflated and do not reflect the true physical situation. Cocoa prices have been volatile due to factors such as a production shortfall in Ivory Coast and Ghana, but a lack of liquidity is exacerbating price moves. Companies are now looking to protect their supply for 2025 and are exploring strategies such as diversifying sourcing and implementing flexible structures. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa prices have been experiencing volatility due to a lack of liquidity in the market. Poor harvests in West Africa have caused a supply crunch, leading to a surge in cocoa prices. However, the high prices have made it more expensive to maintain positions, causing traders to pull out of the market and reducing liquidity. The recent downward swings in prices could be a correction, but it remains to be seen if this is a long-term change or a short-term adjustment. The market may need new factors, such as poor weather conditions, to rally back to record highs. [Extracted from the article]

According to a World Bank report, global commodity prices have stabilized at inflated levels, which may prevent central banks from quickly cutting interest rates. While commodity prices have remained relatively unchanged after a significant drop in 2022-2023, the report predicts a 3% decrease in prices this year and a 4% decrease in 2025. However, prices are expected to remain above most central banks' inflation targets and 38% higher than the pre-pandemic average. The report also highlights the potential for a major energy shock if conflict in the Middle East escalates, which could undermine progress in reducing inflation. Additionally, the report forecasts an average price of $84 per barrel for Brent crude oil in 2024, with the possibility of prices exceeding $100 per barrel in the event of a severe supply disruption. The report also notes that costs for key metals used in the global clean-energy transition, such as copper and aluminum, are expected to rise this year. [Extracted from the article]

Sugar futures in New York have risen after reaching a one-year low last week. The increase is attributed to short covering and indications of tighter supplies. Dry weather in Brazil is putting pressure on production, with the national supply company cutting its output estimate for the country. Thailand's cane production has also been affected by drought and higher costs. The direction of the Brazilian currency will be closely watched, as it could impact sugar prices. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures in New York have reached a new record high due to the steady pace of processing in chocolate factories, despite a global supply shortage and high prices. The most-active contract rose by 6.2% to $11,722 per metric ton, with North America experiencing a 4% increase in cocoa processing during the first quarter compared to the previous year. However, experts believe that the recent surge in futures is not yet being felt throughout the supply chain, as most of the beans used were purchased at lower prices from existing inventories. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have reached a new high, surpassing $11,000 per metric ton, due to the steady pace of processing in chocolate factories despite a global supply shortage and record prices. Processing numbers in Europe only fell by about 2% and slightly decreased in Asia during the first quarter, while North America saw a nearly 4% increase. The market is monitoring processing data to determine if the rally is impacting demand and if chocolatiers are struggling to obtain cocoa beans. However, the small drop in European processing suggests that processors in the region may have compensated for closures in West African facilities, indicating that global processing in the first quarter may have remained stable or decreased. [Extracted from the article]

Grindings figures, which are used to measure chocolate consumption, are becoming less reliable due to the cocoa crisis and shortages in the market. Traders and analysts expect first-quarter grindings to have fallen in Europe, Asia, and North America compared to last year. The high prices and scarcity of cocoa beans are making it risky for chocolatiers to purchase and grind cocoa. Some plants in West Africa have halted production intermittently, and one major Asian processor has been paying premiums to secure supplies from minor growers. While grindings are still useful, other information such as chocolate company earnings reports are needed for a better understanding of supply and demand. The International Cocoa Organization estimates that global grindings will fall almost 5% this season. [Extracted from the article]

Grindings figures, which are used to measure chocolate consumption, are becoming less reliable due to the cocoa crisis and shortages in the market. Traders and analysts expect first-quarter grindings to have fallen in Europe, Asia, and North America compared to last year. The high prices and scarcity of cocoa beans are making it risky for chocolatiers to purchase and grind cocoa. Some plants in West Africa have halted production intermittently, and one major Asian processor has been paying premiums to secure supplies from minor growers. The drop in grindings may be due to tight supply rather than weak demand. Other information, such as chocolate company earnings reports, is needed to get a better picture of supply and demand. The International Cocoa Organization estimates that global grindings will fall almost 5% this season. Brazil's grindings for the first quarter fell about 6% from the previous year, but access to local cocoa supplies and weaker domestic demand could help Brazil export more powder and butter. Overall, global grinders are facing a tough environment due to the current market conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures have reached a new record high of $10,760 a ton in New York due to ongoing supply issues in West Africa. Harvests in the region have been negatively impacted by bad weather and crop disease, leading to a 30% decrease in cocoa arrivals to ports in Ivory Coast compared to the previous year. The volatility in cocoa markets has been further intensified by rising margin calls and declining open interest. Analysts predict that prices could rise even further to $12,500 a ton in the next three months, which may increase the risk of bankruptcies in the industry. While processing plants being priced out of the market may help address demand-side issues, the supply outlook remains uncertain due to weather and disease. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa futures experienced a decline after reaching a new record high earlier in the day. The market has become more volatile due to this year's significant increase in cocoa prices and lower open interest. Despite concerns about the mid-crop harvest in Ivory Coast, there is no indication of a top in the market. Weather conditions in West Africa continue to be unfavorable for cocoa production, and while recent rain has helped, more is needed. Farmers in Ivory Coast will receive higher pay for the mid-crop harvest, which could potentially boost production in the long term. However, the cocoa market is currently focused on the near future and it remains uncertain if higher farm-level pricing will lead to increased shipments. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa prices have reached a new record high, despite hedge funds reducing their bullish bets on the commodity. The rally in prices is believed to be driven by commercial traders and physical buyers, as poor crops in West Africa have led to a global supply deficit for the third consecutive year. Analysts suggest that the rally may be fueled by commercial short covering, and while some technical indicators suggest that cocoa prices may have risen too quickly, many analysts do not see a top to the market yet. The upcoming smaller harvest in Ivory Coast is not expected to alleviate the tight global supplies. [Extracted from the article]

As Easter approaches, higher cocoa prices are leading to increased costs for chocolate eggs and bunnies. However, this is just the beginning, as cocoa prices have more than doubled this year, making it the hottest commodity globally. The surge in prices is due to disappointing harvests in Ivory Coast and Ghana, the main cocoa producers. Smallholder farmers in the industry have faced poor returns and climate change, contributing to the price increase. Consumers are already experiencing higher prices and "shrinkflation" in the UK and Brazil, and the trend is expected to continue. [Extracted from the article]

Cocoa prices have doubled in less than three months, reaching a record high, as the surge in prices begins to impact consumers and chocolate makers. The rising costs are leading to price increases, smaller portions, and the addition of other flavors in chocolate bars. The increase in prices is particularly concerning as Easter approaches, with nearly 90% of US consumers planning to purchase candy for the holiday. The high prices are expected to continue due to crop issues in West Africa, the main cocoa-growing region, and the uncertainty surrounding future production. [Extracted from the article]