Strong Dry Bulk Market May Not Persist in 2H

Although the recovery of bulk carrier earnings has fired sale and purchase activity, values and new orders, market faces an uncertain outlook for the balance of the year, according to research and consultancy firm Maritime Strategies International (MSI). 

MSI has forecast a positive short-term outlook for dry bulk freight rates but has cautioned on prospects in the second half of the year. Read more . . . 

Is surge in new alliances set to run out of steam?

The launch of THE Alliance and the Ocean Alliance is providing a test for the container charter market. The two new alliances went live on 1 April after helping to fuel a surprisingly strong rally in the charter market.

Rates for intermediate and large containerships have doubled since the start of the year as lines chased a diminishing supply of available tonnage to fill gaps in their new service schedules. Read more . . . (Subscription)