- Capesize leads decline with 2% d-o-d drop
- Supramax edges up despite broader weakness
The Baltic Dry Index (BDI) declined 53 points (1.5%), to 3,575 on 7 September 2026, from 3,628 on 4 September, following its recent rise to a five-year high. The correction was led by the larger vessel segments, with Capesize recording the sharpest decline, while Supramax posted a marginal gain.
The d-o-d decline in the BDI points to some easing in dry bulk freight momentum after the index reached a five-year high. The sharper correction in Capesize suggests that the recent strength in larger vessels is facing some consolidation, while the marginal rise in Supramax indicates comparatively firmer sentiment in the smaller vessel segment.
Segment-wise performance
- Baltic Capesize Index (BCI): The Capesize index fell 141 points (2.3%), to 6,286, from 6,427. The decline marked the biggest drag on the broader BDI, indicating weaker momentum in the larger vessel segment after its recent strong gains.
- Baltic Panamax Index (BPI): The Panamax index declined 17 points (0.7%), to 2,431, from 2,448. The segment remained under pressure, although its daily correction was considerably smaller than that of Capesize.
- Baltic Supramax Index (BSI): The Supramax index increased 7 points (0.4%), to 1,682, from 1,675. The gain provided some resilience to the broader market as larger vessel segments weakened.
Outlook
The BDI may remain under pressure in the coming sessions if Capesize rates continue to correct after their recent surge. However, sustained commodity flows could limit the downside, particularly if iron ore, coal and grain cargo demand remains firm. Panamax performance will also be important for the broader index, while continued strength in Supramax could provide some support.
Unless larger vessel rates resume their upward momentum, the BDI is likely to consolidate at elevated levels through September, rather than immediately return to the lows seen before its recent rally.
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