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:
18/12/25
Dec 18, 2025
The dry bulk market saw a softer overall tone, with Handysize holding largely flat, Supramax weakening across both basins, and Panamax continuing its decline despite some localized Atlantic support. Activity levels remained muted in many regions, with owners increasingly seeking cover ahead of the holiday period. The Atlantic showed mixed signals across segments, while the Pacific faced longer tonnage lists and weaker demand, keeping pressure on rates.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
08-12/12/25 Agri
Dec 15, 2025
CBOT markets finished lower ahead of Tuesday’s WASDE, which was widely expected to lack bullish surprises. MATIF wheat was the exception, posting small gains. Russian 12.5% protein wheat FOB for January delivery edged up by $0.5 w/w to $227.5/t, according to IKAR. Geopolitical headlines remained in focus after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said US-brokered peace talks remain stalled over security guarantees and control of eastern Ukraine, particularly the Donbas.
Freight
Freight Recap:
11/12/25
Dec 11, 2025
The dry bulk market saw a softer overall tone, with Handysize holding largely flat, Supramax weakening across both basins, and Panamax continuing its decline despite some localized Atlantic support. Activity levels remained muted in many regions, with owners increasingly seeking cover ahead of the holiday period. The Atlantic showed mixed signals across segments, while the Pacific faced longer tonnage lists and weaker demand, keeping pressure on rates.
Commodities
Agri- Commodities:
01-05/12/25 Agri
Dec 08, 2025
USDA announced no new flash sales, disappointing soybean markets. Weekly export sales remain delayed and have not yet reached the period covering the US–China trade deal, leaving the true pace of buying uncertain. CBOT corn and wheat eased, while March MATIF wheat posted small gains after finding support at intraday contract lows. ABARES raised Australia’s 2025/26 wheat, barley, and canola output, though the increases were broadly in line with expectations. Algeria’s OAIC issued a soft wheat tender for February shipment, and Russian wheat prices slipped again, with 12.5% FOB for January at $227/t.
