World Perspectives

FOB Prices and Freight Rates App (Updated 20 December)

Ocean Freight Comments - 20 December 2024By Matt HerringtonFreight markets – particularly the dry bulk sector - continue to see thin trade that is leaving rates in the doldrums. Demand and fresh inquiries remain light with vessel overcapacity further depressing rates. Vessel owners are continually asking whether the market has hit bottom. This depression in the market allowed bulk freight rates to hit 16-month lows last week with rates falling across all sectors, including dry bulk, crude oil tankers, and LNG vessels. Notably, the Baltic Panamax and Supramax indices are trading nearly at parity with one another, with overcapacity in the Panamax sector driving rates sharply lower.The primary drivers of the malaise in freight markets are the...

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From WPI Consulting

Weighing in on strategic realignment

WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.

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