One chart: The Baltic Dry Index climbed to a near two-week high, with freight rates strengthening across all vessel types.
2026-05-27 22:55:21

On May 27, the Baltic Dry Index saw a significant rise, with the overall index reaching a near two-week peak. Freight rates for all major dry bulk carriers in the market rose in tandem, reflecting the continued recovery in global dry bulk shipping demand and increased activity in matching ships with cargoes.
The Baltic Dry Index, which reflects the freight rates of the three main vessel types—Capesize, Panamax, and Supramax—surged 39 points, or 1.3%, to close at 3,124 points, a new high since May 15, marking a continued recovery in the dry bulk shipping market.
As the mainstay of large ocean-going dry bulk shipping, the Capesize vessel index saw a significant increase, rising 78 points, or 1.5%, to 5272 points, also reaching its highest level in two weeks. This vessel type primarily transports bulk raw materials such as iron ore and coal, with a deadweight tonnage of up to 150,000 tons. Its average daily earnings also rose, increasing by $712 from the previous day, currently reaching an average daily income of $44,314. It is worth noting that the commodity market showed divergent trends, with domestic coking coal prices declining somewhat on the day. Concerns about weak demand from the downstream steel industry prevailed, ultimately suppressing further increases in coking coal prices.
The Panamax market also maintained a positive trend, with the Panamax index rising 34 points, or 1.5%, to close at 2292 points, a new high since May 20. These vessels, with a deadweight range of 60,000 to 70,000 tons, primarily handle cross-regional transport of goods such as coal and grain. Market profitability has steadily increased, with average daily revenue rising by $311, reaching a latest average daily revenue of $20,629.
While the price increase for smaller Supramax vessels was weaker, it still continued its upward trend. The Supramax vessel index rose slightly by 3 points, or 0.2%, to close at 1562 points. Freight rates across all vessel types rose, confirming the overall recovery in the dry bulk shipping market.
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