Cocoa beans: unexpected growth leader on global markets

In 2024, cocoa beans unexpectedly became the most profitable asset, outperforming even tech flagships such as Bitcoin. Since the beginning of the year, their value has increased by almost 185%, while Bitcoin’s growth stood at around 128%. This phenomenon has attracted heightened attention from both commodity market participants and investors focused on cryptocurrencies and traditional assets.

Why did cocoa prices soar?

The main factors behind the sharp rise in cocoa bean prices were climate change and logistics issues. Major cocoa producers, such as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, faced droughts and unpredictable weather conditions, which significantly reduced harvest volumes. At the same time, demand for chocolate products grew in Asian and Middle Eastern countries, where consumption of sweets is on the rise.

Constraints in supply chains, caused by global economic shocks, exacerbated the situation. Rising transportation costs and raw material shortages created a domino effect, pushing prices higher.

The rise in cocoa prices may be seen as a reminder of the vulnerability of commodity-oriented markets. On the other hand, Bitcoin’s volatility highlights the risks for those choosing assets not linked to physical production.

Forecasts

For 2025, analysts predict a stabilisation of cocoa prices, provided weather conditions improve and harvests in Africa recover. However, raw material shortages may persist, which will keep price levels high.

Thus, cocoa beans in 2024 proved that traditional commodities can compete with the most modern digital instruments.