Mads Frank Markussen explored the impact of Trump’s tariffs, sanctions
Feb 12, 2025
Recently, our colleague Mads Frank Markussen, Head of Freight Research & FFA, joined Felipe, Neil, and Michael on a special bonus episode of Sparta Market Outlook to dive into all things freight.
Mads and the Sparta team explored the impact of Trump’s tariffs, sanctions, and market inefficiencies on oil and freight trading, as well as how tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China could reshape trade flows—discussed potential US-Europe tariff conflicts and why Russian sanctions have had a limited effect on dry bulk markets.
The conversation covered key differences between tanker and dry bulk markets and the growing influence of emissions regulations on voyage costs across the industry.
A must-listen for anyone in freight and commodities—check it out!
Listen to the full podcast here: https://www.spartacommodities.com/insights/freight-special-with-mads-frank-markussen-head-of-freight-research-ffa-at-cm-navigator/
Weekly Recaps
Freight
Freight Recap:
2/10/25
Oct 02, 2025
The dry bulk market displayed mixed conditions, with Handysize maintaining its upward momentum, Supramax undergoing further corrections, and Panamax continuing to weaken across both basins. Atlantic activity showed some resilience in smaller segments, while Asia was muted due to regional holidays. Broader sentiment in larger segments remained under pressure, influenced by excess tonnage and soft FFA signals.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
22-26/09/25 Agri
Sep 29, 2025
Grain markets opened the week under pressure after Argentina suspended export taxes on soy, corn, wheat, and by-products. The move sparked expectations of aggressive short-term sales, sending Chicago wheat to fresh contract lows and weighing on soybeans and soy products. MATIF wheat held just above recent lows ahead of Algeria’s tender, though sentiment remained weak as U.S. futures fell again and the euro strengthened to 1.18. U.S. inspections showed lighter soybean and corn volumes, while wheat topped expectations. Crop progress confirmed steady harvest advances but slight condition declines, with winter wheat planting just behind forecasts.
Freight
Freight Recap:
25/09/25
Sep 25, 2025
The dry bulk market showed a split tone. Handysize remained constructive on selective strength, Supramax was steady-to-softer with Atlantic support offset by Pacific pressure, and Panamax firmed on the day with more activity in both basins.
