Latest data shows that the Baltic Dry Index (BDI) reached 2038 points on March 16, 2026, a five-day high, up 0.49% month-on-month, marking the fourth consecutive day of increase (including zero growth). Looking at the short-term charts, the recent 11 BDI data points show: 7 positive increases, 4 negative increases, and 0 zero increases. Specifically, the Panamax Freight Index (BPI) was 1836 points, down 0.11% from the previous value; the Capesize Freight Index (BCI) was 2927 points, up 1.63%; and the Supramax Freight Index (BSI) was 1268 points, down 1.17%. For detailed 720-day and 10-year trend charts of the Baltic Dry Index and its three main sub-indices, please refer to the specially designed charts.



Freight rates showed significant divergence among different vessel types: the Panamax Index (BPI) stood at 1836 points, a slight decrease of 0.11% month-on-month; the Capesize Index (BCI) stood at 2927 points, a significant increase of 1.63% month-on-month, becoming the core driver of the overall index's rise; and the Supramax Index (BSI) stood at 1268 points, a decrease of 1.17% month-on-month. Currently, the Baltic Dry Index and the 720-day and 10-year long-term trends of the three major vessel types can be found in the professional charts specially created by FX678.

Directly boosted by the continued strength in Capesize vessel freight rates, the Baltic Exchange's core index for monitoring dry bulk shipping costs showed a slight increase on Monday. This index comprehensively tracks freight rates for the three major dry bulk vessel types: Capesize, Panamax, and Supramax. It rose 10 points, or 0.5%, to close at 2038 points.

As the vessel type with the largest shipping capacity and mainly carrying bulk dry cargo such as iron ore and coal, the Capesize index rose 47 points, or 1.6%, to close at 2927 points. The corresponding average daily operating income per vessel increased by US$419 to US$23,040, further improving the profitability of shipowners.

In contrast, the Panamax index, the mainstay of medium-sized dry bulk shipping, performed weakly, falling slightly by 2 points, or 0.1%, to close at 1836 points. This vessel type mainly carries 60,000-70,000 tons of coal, grain, and other cargoes, and its daily operating revenue decreased by $18 to $16,528. The Supramax freight rate index also weakened, falling 15 points, or 1.2%, to close at 1268 points, indicating overall downward pressure on freight rates for small and medium-sized vessels.