Weekly Freight Recap: 01/08/24
Aug 01, 2024
PANAMAX
Atlantic: The Panamax market in the Atlantic basin faced significant declines, particularly impacted by an underperforming South American market. Limited activity in the North Atlantic, with few mineral voyage business deals, contributed to a negative sentiment. Rates remained lower than index levels, driven by a lack of visibility and limited fresh inquiries. There was a cautious outlook, with mixed views on market stability and the summer season further adding to the uncertainty.
Pacific: In the Pacific, there was slightly better activity compared to the Atlantic, yet rates continued to fall. Owners were discounting shorter runs to minimize exposure to low rates. The market struggled to find a floor, with ongoing uncertainty and reduced demand. Despite some activity, the overall sentiment remained cautious, reflecting the broader challenges faced across the Panamax segment.
SUPRAMAX
Atlantic: The Supramax market in the Atlantic remained lackluster with minimal fresh inquiries. The US Gulf, in particular, saw rates under negative pressure due to a lack of new activity. The South Atlantic also experienced reduced interest and weakening rates, mirroring the broader trend in the region. Few fixtures were reported, and overall sentiment was cautious with a prevailing negative outlook.
Pacific: In the Pacific, the Supramax market lost ground due to limited fresh inquiries. Activity was sparse, with both owners and charters adopting a 'wait and see' approach. However, the Indian Ocean showed a bit more activity, driven by sulphur shipments, though this did not significantly impact the overall market. The general mood in the Pacific was one of caution, with mixed opinions on potential upward pressure in specific areas.
HANDYSIZE
Atlantic: The Handysize market in the Atlantic was subdued with little action reported. In the Continent, there were signs of slight resistance from owners, although concrete details were scarce. The US Gulf seemed to gain ground, though no actual fixtures were heard. The South Atlantic remained finely balanced with limited fresh inquiries, reflecting broader market trends.
Pacific: The Pacific market for Handysize vessels saw limited fresh inquiries, with a generally pessimistic sentiment prevailing. There was a lack of new fixtures, making it difficult to gauge market direction. Despite the subdued activity, the market saw a slight gain in average rates, though overall sentiment remained cautious and uncertain. The 'wait and see' approach dominated, with market participants hesitant to commit amid unclear prospects.
Weekly Recaps
Freight
Freight Recap:
18/04/25
Apr 18, 2025
The Atlantic market saw further pressure with rates declining across most routes. Despite some vessel movement toward South America on hopes of stronger grain activity, this has not translated into stronger sentiment. The region remains oversupplied, and charterers continue to dictate terms, keeping offers low and confidence weak.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
7/4- 11/4/25 Agri
Apr 15, 2025
Grain markets began the week relatively stable, despite heightened volatility in U.S. financial markets. The threat of escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China remained a significant concern, as President Trump proposed additional tariffs on Chinese imports. In the grain markets, U.S. export inspections for soybeans and corn were strong, while wheat inspections fell short of expectations.
Freight
Freight Recap:
10/04/25
Apr 10, 2025
Atlantic: The market remained under pressure with falling rates driven by oversupply and limited fresh demand. While some activity was seen out of South America, it wasn’t enough to shift sentiment. Charterers maintained control, and offers remained far apart from bids, especially on transatlantic routes. Overall, market participants remained cautious, with attention also diverted by global financial uncertainty.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
31/3- 4/4/25 Agri
Apr 07, 2025
Grain markets kicked off the week digesting the USDA’s planting intentions report, which offered mild support to wheat and modest pressure on corn. However, corn still managed to finish higher for the old crop, while soybeans slipped slightly. Export inspections showed strong performance for corn and solid showings for wheat and soybeans. Winter wheat conditions held steady in Kansas but declined in Texas and Oklahoma. Market attention began shifting toward President Trump’s anticipated tariff announcement, raising questions over potential trade fallout.
