Feb 03, 2012 (Dow Jones Commodities News via Comtex) -- 4:23 (Dow Jones) Cotton futures climbed as nervousness over weather in Australia and better-than-expected US employment data supported the market. "Fears over possible flooding in Australia spooked some traders," says independent cotton analyst Mike Stevens, adding that "the economic data was all bullish." If more people are employed, then there is more disposable income to spend on cotton products, such as clothing. In addition, futures opened higher this morning after "considerable business was done yesterday on the dip below 93 cents," Stevens says. ICE cotton for March delivery settled up 2.3% at 96.34c/lb.