22OCT2019 - NEWS - Capesizes on Stabilization Mode

The market traded in a relatively stable supported manner in the Pacific this week while the Atlantic experienced weakening turbulence. Fixture activity was strong in both basins with trade executed generally on a voyage priced basis. The 5TC opened the week at $26,382 before closing on a slightly down note Friday at $25,117. The Brazil to China C3 was the big mover this past week opening at $23.782 to close down at $20.945. The Pacific C5 market continued to trade in a limited range opening at $9.227 to end out the week on a positive at $9.114.

Discussions continue to be heard regarding vessels cleaning fuel tanks in preparation for IMO 2020. Vessels going out on timecharter are needing to consider what fuel the vessel is being returned with, whilst ideally having a good indication of where that will be for bunkering considerations. Some have been heard to give favorable prices for bunkers on delivery to entice trade. While traders are well versed in bunker planning, the IMO’s hard deadline is problematic for the inherent variability of shipping schedules. The added complexity will surely turn up more issues over the coming months.