HANDYSIZE
• USG / USEC – There were many discussions during the week, however not many orders were firm and oversupply caused a drop in rates. No changes is expected for theupcoming week.
• ECSA – The market had a firm start, because of limited supply. In the mid of the week, supply had increased significantly to a point where there was no further rise in market rates. For the next week expect more downward pressure is expected on rates due to the upcoming ballasters.
• CONTI – North France and the Baltic supported the market with various cargoes, mainly grains and ferts. The market is expected to maintain a positive trend during the next week.
• MED – Market decreased with weak cargo flow. Furthermore, capacity built up and Russian and Ukrainian cargoes weren’t enough to absorb all these vsls. Need a push in the demand to see any change in the general sentiment for next week.
• MEG / INDIA – Market was firm due to the improvement of activity after the holidays in Asia. Expect the market to remain active for next week.
• SEASIA / FEAST – The market started the week slow due to holidays but as the days run the situation got better with more cargoes ex Seasia, Aussie and NoPac. Expect the market to move in the same trajectory for the next week.
SUPRAMAX
• ECSA – Market was balanced as the cargo and tonnage lists were short as well. Expect an increase in demand returning from the Carnival (9-18 February).
• USG – Market was quiet due to CNY and proceeded in this way during the week. Need more cargoes to see any development for next week.
• CONTI – Market increased as the tonnage list was steady, and demand gradually increased during the week. Wait for the market to continue rising for next week.
• MED – There were many alternatives for the owners in Black Sea and the number of available vessels was limited, pushing the rates upwards. Prospects arepositive for next week.
• MEG / INDIA – There was more mobility in the market and owners took the advantage to increase their ideas. Sentiment remains firm for next week
• SEASIA / FEAST – Tonnages reduced finally as there was more action and opportunities for owners after the Lunar New Year in North and South as well. Expect the market to remain active for next week.
Iakovos (Jack) Archontakis
TMC Commercial Director (as Agents only)