Markets
Friday's only official report is the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index, set for 9 a.m. CDT. Exports sales remain closely watched as do the latest weather forecasts for the U.S. and South America. Federal Reserve officials continue to share their views in public talks after the Fed said Wednesday it was committed to keeping interest rates near zero.
Weather
Another day of dry and mild conditions is in store for all major crop areas Friday. This pattern remains favorable for row crop ripening and harvest along with winter wheat planting. Tropical Depression Twenty-Two in the western Gulf of Mexico will be monitored for possible impact on the south Texas coast. Meanwhile, wildfire danger and smoke issues remain in effect throughout the West