Batic Dry Index rises 4% d-o-d amid strong Capesize demand

• Active iron ore fixtures support 5% increase in Capesize index
• Improving Atlantic activity, cargo visibility lifts Panamax index

The Baltic Dry Index gained by 4.1% (126 points) d-o-d to 3,189 on 13 May 2026, reflecting improved trade fundamentals. The dry bulk market remained supported by healthy iron ore flows from Brazil and Australia, while coal and grain cargo movements continued to provide additional momentum across vessel segments.

Segment-wise trends

• Capesize: The Baltic Capesize Index (BCI) rose by 5% (258 points) to 5,340, supported by firm iron ore cargo volumes from Brazil, active fixture activity on Brazil-China and Pacific routes, and tightening prompt vessel supply.
• Panamax: The Baltic Panamax Index (BPI) increased by 4% (94 points) to 2,454, on the back of stable grain and coal cargo demand, with improving Atlantic activity and better cargo visibility supporting chartering interest.
• Supramax: The Baltic Supramax Index (BSI) rose by 1.2% (18 points) to 1,553. Market participants closely monitored vessel availability, with tighter prompt tonnage in some regions helping to maintain elevated freights.

Outlook

In the coming days, the Baltic Dry Index is expected to remain elevated amid healthy iron ore and coal trade flows, sustained cargo activity across major basins, and rising crude oil prices.