Weekly Freight Recap: 18/04/25

PANAMAX Atlantic: 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. Pacific: Conditions remained soft in the Pacific with limited fresh inquiry from North Pacific and Indonesia. A growing tonnage list and lack of consistent cargoes widened the gap between bids and offers. Owners struggled to maintain levels as overall market sentiment remained bearish.

SUPRAMAX Atlantic: The Atlantic remained under pressure, especially for backhaul routes, where demand was minimal. Although the South Atlantic showed a more balanced position, owners were reluctant to discount further. The broader region lacked momentum, with few new fixtures reported and sentiment staying subdued. Pacific: The Pacific saw limited movement as demand stayed weak, particularly out of Indonesia. Owners held firm on rates in some areas like the Indian Ocean and Mediterranean, but the overall mood was quiet. A lack of new cargo kept the region flat, with participants hesitant to commit.

HANDYSIZE Atlantic: The Atlantic market was mixed. The Continent and Mediterranean stayed mostly stable, with slight gains in some areas. The South Atlantic saw a touch of fresh demand, which helped support rates slightly. In contrast, the US Gulf continued to weaken under increasing vessel availability and lack of new business. Pacific: Asia remained quiet with limited new inquiry. The tonnage list continued to build, and rates slipped slightly below last done levels. With little improvement in sight, owners faced limited options in a subdued market environment.