Weekly Freight Recap: 18 July, 2024
Jul 18, 2024
PANAMAX
Atlantic: The Panamax market in the Atlantic region showed mixed activity this week. While there were reports of tight tonnage counts on the Continent/Mediterranean routes leading to slight rate increases, EC South America faced pressure, influencing the market sentiment. Overall, the market maintained a stable outlook with cautious optimism.
Pacific: In the Pacific, the Panamax market benefited from increased grain loadings and seasonal Black Sea volumes, supporting market conditions. However, Asia experienced subdued activity due to a national holiday in Japan. The market remains balanced, with expectations of sustained performance in the coming weeks.
SUPRAMAX
Atlantic: Supramax markets in the Atlantic displayed varied trends. While there was softening observed in the Continent and Mediterranean regions due to limited fresh enquiries, the US Gulf region saw healthy demand. Expansion of tonnage lists added pressure to prompt levels, particularly in front haul routes. The South Atlantic reported reduced demand, impacting prompt vessel rates. Despite challenges, market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic.
Pacific: In the Pacific, Supramax market dynamics were influenced by increased backhaul demand and cautious owner behavior regarding fixations. Rates remained stable, reflecting a balanced market condition with expectations for future activity.
HANDYSIZE
Atlantic: The Handysize sector saw modest gains, with a focus on the Atlantic region. Limited fresh enquiries across the Continent and Mediterranean persisted. In the South Atlantic, there was increased demand for vessels scheduled for end-July dates, reflecting positive sentiment in the market.
Pacific: Handysize activity in the Pacific region was characterized by steady performance and increased demand for backhaul trips. Owners' reluctance to fix ships for such routes positively impacted implied rates, underscoring a balanced market outlook in Asia.
Weekly Recaps
Freight
Freight Recap:
13/11/25
Nov 13, 2025
The dry bulk market showed a mixed performance, with Handysize activity remaining limited, Supramax maintaining firmer sentiment, and Panamax extending its gains on stronger fundamentals. The Atlantic generally held a positive tone across most segments, while the Pacific remained steady but slower, with Asian Handysize and Supramax markets facing softer enquiry and longer tonnage lists. Period interest persisted in both Supramax and Panamax sectors, supported by balanced fundamentals and improving demand signals.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
03-07/11/25 Agri
Nov 10, 2025
Soybeans extended their rally on expectations of accelerating Chinese demand, while rumors of U.S. wheat sales to China lifted Chicago futures. Corn stayed firm after StoneX raised its U.S. yield estimate to 186.0 bu/acre, though many still expect revisions lower in upcoming reports. Harvest progress reached 91% for soybeans and 83% for corn, with winter wheat planting nearly complete at 91%.
Export inspections totaled 965k t of soybeans, 1.67 mmt of corn, and 350k t of wheat—broadly in line with expectations. Despite easing trade tensions, Chinese importers continued booking cheaper Brazilian soybeans, reportedly 20 cargoes for December through mid-2026. Kazakhstan’s agriculture ministry reported a 27.1 mmt total harvest, including 20.3 mmt of wheat, far above USDA’s 16 mmt estimate.
Freight
Freight Recap:
06/11/25
Nov 06, 2025
The dry bulk market experienced a generally softer tone this week, with most segments facing mild corrections. The Handysize and Supramax sectors saw limited fresh activity, while the Panamax market showed brief midweek stability before continuing its downward trajectory. Weak demand across basins and growing vessel availability placed pressure on rates, though select regional improvements offered some support.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
27-31/10/25 Agri
Nov 03, 2025
Grain markets opened the week firmer after upbeat headlines on a potential U.S.–China trade deal lifted risk appetite across commodities. The optimism came despite limited clarity on agricultural commitments and lingering pressure from weaker export data.
Russian wheat prices were slightly lower, while EU maize yields were trimmed further. In Argentina, the peso strengthened after President Javier Milei’s party secured a midterm victory. U.S. harvest progress advanced, though export inspections remained subdued.
