Affinity Dry Cargo Weekly 08 May 2026

The dry bulk market exhibited a firm but uneven upward trajectory this week, with the BCI 5TC rising to USD 46,610, underpinned by strong demand and tighter tonnage as Pacific activity outperformed. Meanwhile, the Panamax market maintained bullish sentiment, driven by tightening tonnage and consistent fronthaul demand, leading the P5TC to increase to USD 20,099. On the other hand, the Supramax and Ultramax segments encountered mixed conditions, consolidating amid uneven supply and demand signals, while Handysize rates showed stability in the Americas despite softness in European markets. Labour unrest at Guinea’s Simandou project has disrupted operations, but production is expected to significantly ramp up, positioning it as a major supplier in the global iron ore market and impacting Capesize and Newcastlemax vessels positively.