Baltic Dry Index recovers d-o-d as Capesize and Panamax halt six-day losing streak

• BDI edges higher on stronger Capesize and Panamax
• Supramax remains under mild pressure

The Baltic Exchange’s Dry Bulk Index (BDI) snapped a six-session losing streak, rising 0.4% (11 points) d-o-d to 2,501 points on 30 June 2026, supported by stronger Capesize and Panamax earnings. Improved cargo activity on key iron ore and coal routes lifted sentiment, offsetting weakness in the smaller vessel segments.

Segment-wise Performance

• Capesize: The Capesize index increased by 0.3% (10 points) to 3,548 points after several sessions of declines. Freight sentiment turned slightly firmer, supported by improved cargo activity on key iron ore routes from Australia and Brazil, although chartering remained measured amid cautious buying from Chinese steel mills.
• Panamax: The Panamax index advanced 1.4% (30 points) to 2,154 points. Sentiment improved on the back of stronger coal and grain cargo demand, with increased fixture activity in both the Atlantic and Pacific basins lending support to freight rates.
• Supramax: The Supramax index edged down 0.1% (1 point) to 1,667 points. Market sentiment remained slightly soft, as limited fresh cargo enquiries and subdued minor bulk demand continued to weigh on vessel utilization, particularly in the Atlantic, while the Pacific market remained relatively stable.

Outlook

Baltic index is expected to remain mixed in the near term. Capesize rates may find support if iron ore exports from Australia and Brazil remain steady, while Panamax is likely to stay relatively firm on seasonal grain and coal movements. However, Supramax freight could remain under pressure unless fresh minor bulk cargo demand improves across both the Atlantic and Pacific basins.