Baltic Dry Index Rises, Driven by Cape Size Vessel Rates

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Jan 10, 2025

The Baltic Dry Index (BDI, Financial) reached 1,048 points, marking a five-day high with an 8.15% increase. This is the largest rise since January 8, 2025, and the second consecutive day of gains. The increase was mainly driven by the Cape Size vessel rates, which saw a significant surge.

The Cape Size Index (BCI) rose by 24.40% to 1,448 points, the highest level since December 10, 2024, and recorded a weekly increase of approximately 5.3%. Cape Size vessels, which typically transport around 150,000 tons of cargo such as iron ore and coal, saw their average daily earnings increase by $2,357 to $12,010.

Meanwhile, the Panamax Index (BPI) fell by 3.93% to 953 points, marking the lowest level since July 2023 and the largest weekly drop since November 18, 2024. Panamax vessels, which usually carry 60,000-70,000 tons of coal or grain, experienced a decrease in average daily earnings by $357 to $8,574.

The Supramax Index (BSI) remained unchanged at 830 points but recorded its 13th consecutive weekly decline.

Iron ore futures saw a slight increase as China, a major consumer, expanded its stimulus measures. However, due to seasonally weak demand for major steel-making raw materials, the futures closed lower for the week.

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I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.