The Baltic Sea index rose as ship freight rates rose across the board

The latest data show that on August 26, 2025, the Baltic Dry Index (BDI) reported 2,041 points, a new high since August 15, 2025, up 4.99% month-on-month (compared with the previous value), the largest increase since July 24, 2025, and the second consecutive day of growth (including 0 growth). Looking at the comprehensive short-term table, the latest 11 BDI data growth situations are: positive growth 5 times, negative growth 6 times, and zero growth 0 times. Among them, the Panamax Freight Index (BPI) reported 1,818 points, up 2.71% from the previous value, the Capesize Freight Index (BCI) reported 3,031 points, up 8.52%, and the BSI reported 1,437 points, up 0.91%. The latest 720-day chart and ten-year chart of the Baltic Dry Index + three major sub-items are detailed in the latest information special chart.

The Baltic Exchange's main ocean freight index, which measures rates for ships carrying dry bulk cargo, rose to its highest level in more than a week on Tuesday, supported by higher rates for all ship types.

The main index tracking rates for Capesize, Panamax and Handysize ships rose 97 points, or 5%, to 2,041, the highest level since August 15.

The Capesize index rose 238 points, or 8.5 percent, to 3,031.

Capesize ships, which typically carry 150,000 tonnes of cargoes such as iron ore and coal, saw average daily earnings rise $1,980 to $25,140.

"Spot iron ore activity appears to have driven spot prices higher this week as demand from China, Australia and Brazil boosted the market," analysts at Jefferies said in a note.

The Panamax index rose 48 points, or 2.7 percent, to 1,818, its highest level since July 25.

Panamax ships, which typically carry 60,000 to 70,000 tons of coal or grain, saw average daily earnings rise by $431 to $16,363.

Among smaller vessels, the Handyship Index rose 13 points, or 0.9%, to 1,437.