Baltic Dry Index extends losses as Capesize weakness overshadows Supramax resilience

• 3% drop in Capesize index drags BDI below 3,000-point level
• Charterers remain cautious amid subdued cargo inquiries

The Baltic Exchange’s Dry Bulk Index (BDI) declined by 1.8% (56 points) d-o-d to 2,981 points on 5 June 2026, as softer activity in the Capesize segment outweighed resilience in smaller vessel classes. Charterers adopted a wait-and-see approach amid subdued cargo inquiries.

Segment-wise performance

• Capesize: The Capesize index fell by 2.9% (147 points) to 4,893 points amid lower freight rates on major iron ore routes, reflecting softer cargo demand and improved vessel availability.
• Panamax: The Panamax index decreased by 0.8% (18 points) to 2,236 points. Sentiment remained subdued amid limited fresh grain and coal cargo demand, while balanced vessel supply in the Atlantic and Pacific basins restricted freight upside.
• Supramax: The Supramax index edged up by 0.25% (4 points) to 1,588 points. Market sentiment was relatively firm, supported by steady minor bulk movements and improved cargo availability in select Asian and Indian Ocean markets.

Outlook

The Baltic Dry Index is expected to continue falling in the near term. While persistent weakness in the Capesize segment amid softer iron ore trade may continue to pressure the overall index, stable minor bulk demand and seasonal cargo flows are expected to lend support to the Supramax segment.