Key Takeaways:

  • Dry bulk freight markets were stronger this week, but the rally was uneven and due to divergent dynamics across basins and vessel classes. 
  • Panamax markets were broadly higher, but Atlantic grain demand was primarily responsible while Asian activity was subdued. That trend continued into the Supramax and Handysize sectors, with the latter seeing the most improvement on USG grain demand and a softer environment otherwise. 
  • A big focus for the freight markets now is how the recent U.S. midterm elections will impact the war in Iran and the Trump administration’s broader policies, including issues such as tariffs and the port dockage fees for China-linked vessels. 
  • Tanker rates continue to correct ....