Weekly Freight Recap: 28/02/25
Feb 28, 2025
PANAMAX Atlantic: The Panamax market maintained its positive momentum, following typical seasonal trends. The North Atlantic remained steady, with limited vessel availability supporting owners’ expectations. In contrast, the South Atlantic saw a more dynamic market, with increasing demand driving improved sentiment and stronger negotiations.
Pacific: The Pacific market experienced further gains, supported by a tight balance between vessel supply and demand. Grain and mineral cargoes continued to see healthy interest, contributing to the firming market. Future sentiment remains optimistic, with expectations of further strengthening as the month progresses. Period activity also saw increased interest, reflecting confidence in market conditions.
SUPRAMAX Atlantic: The Atlantic Supramax sector remained active, although some signs of stabilization appeared in the US Gulf as fresh inquiries slowed. The Mediterranean market held steady, while the South Atlantic remained balanced with a mix of opportunities. Fixture activity continued, with vessels securing steady employment for regional and long-haul trades.
Pacific: Asia continued its upward trend, with strong demand supporting higher rates. An increase in backhaul business further contributed to market stability, while period interest remained firm. The regional market remained competitive, with charterers actively pursuing available tonnage.
HANDYSIZE Atlantic: The Handysize market remained firm across the Atlantic, with steady demand in both the North and South. The US Gulf and South Atlantic continued to see stable activity, while the Continent and Mediterranean recorded slight improvements. Owners maintained confidence in rate levels, leading to firm negotiations.
Pacific: The Pacific market saw increased activity, particularly in North China and Southeast Asia, where vessel supply tightened. Spot demand remained healthy, supporting firmer levels. There was also a rise in interest for period employment, indicating stable longer-term market expectations.
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.
