The goal of this study is to examine the cohesion and the anisotropy in dense, cohesive powders. This is done by using a discrete element method (DEM) for the simulation of a biaxial box deformation. Our approach includes normal (repulsive/cohesive) as well as tangential forces. Reorganization of the contact network first leads to anisotropy and later to shear band formation and softening behavior from the macroscopic point of view. Both cohesion and friction enhance the material strength. AD important result is the fact that the macroscopic cohesion can be related to the maximal microscopic attractive force.