Baltic dry index falls 1.42% to 2,017

Baltic dry index falls 1.42% to 2,017

The Baltic Exchange's dry bulk sea freight index, a key indicator for global shipping activity, retreated by 1.42% on Thursday, closing at 2,017 points. This decline marks the fourth consecutive day of decline, reaching its lowest level since July 15, 2025 [1]. The index is primarily influenced by the bigger-size segment, which saw a significant drop in rates.

The capesize index, which typically transports 150,000-ton cargoes such as iron ore and coal, slipped by 5.7% to its lowest since July 16, 2025, at 2,703 points [1]. Conversely, the panamax index, which usually carries 60,000-70,000 tons of coal or grain, rose by 3.2% to 1,719 points, while the supramax index increased by 1.2% to 1,405 points [1].

This shift in vessel performance reveals how the world’s appetite for raw materials keeps trade—and profits—on the move. With iron ore on the back foot, it’s grains and coal driving demand for panamax and supramax ships [2]. These changes highlight how supply chain shifts and new trade routes can shake up the shipping industry and provide a live pulse check on global economic momentum.

References:
[1] https://www.tradingview.com/news/te_news:479612:0-baltic-dry-index-extends-decline-to-over-1-month-low/
[2] https://finimize.com/content/baltic-dry-index-rises-as-smaller-ships-outpace-larger-ones