Both TC1 and TC5 saw a boost at the start of the week as both markets firmed considerably. With a thinning tonnage list, Owners sentiment is strong and they are bullish in getting higher than last done rates. With both LR2 and LR1 markets complementing each other, hopefully the current pace of fixing will sustain as the list of cargo enquiries builds up. It will be interesting to see what this week brings as the rates start creeping upwards.
Read moreBoth LR1 and LR2 markets held steady on Friday as a few fixtures repeated the last done numbers. With the Saudis coming back from the holiday, more activities are expected and it strengthens owners’ sentiment. We shall see what it brings in this coming week.
Read moreOver the week, the LR2 market has seen little change with healthy amount of cargoes. LR1 rates dropped a few points and now owners are standing their ground. There is no shortage of cargoes but ships are abundant as well. Overall, it is steady for now.
Read moreThe LR2 market has seen 75@W93.5 repeated several times for the key AG/Japan route. The LR1 market is relatively stable, with owners indicating that further downward pressure is expected with ample ship supply. As Japan was off on holiday yesterday, more activity is expected to come into play today.
Read moreAs more cargoes flood the market, both the LR1 and LR2 markets firmed after a quiet start to the week. Tighter requirements from charterers looking for tonnage with last cargo naphtha also lent support to the market. LR2 rates were up by W10 points from the beginning of the week to 75@W102.5.
Read moreThe LR2 market held steady over the weekend after rates inched up on Friday. It seems as though Chtrs are withholding second decade August cargoes to avoid the firm market. The LR1 market is stable as well but healthy ship supply may keep a lid on rates.
Read moreThe LR2 Market firmed up considerably over the last week. Rates have been relatively stable approaching the end of the week and little has changed over the weekend with ships been put on subs at 75kt@W114. LR1 rates have not been affected by LR2 rates spiking and held steady since beginning of last week till now.
Read moreThe outage at Shell Pernis refinery has successfully boosted the momentum of the LR market with more middle distillates flowing to West from East. Strong owner sentiment has sent rates higher and higher. It has been a fruitful week for the LR market, supported by the fundamentally tight position list and surge in demand to move cargoes West.
Read moreLR rates held steady over the weekend as charterers dug their heels in and refused to give in to owners’ attempts to push up rates. As the fixing window moves forward, more fresh cargoes are needed to sustain rates at current levels.
Read moreThe LR segment has been on fire over the past two weeks due to strong naphtha demand in Asia and refinery outages in Europe. LR2 rates have been relatively stable while LR1 rates firmed up as some vessel schedules were affected by typhoon Noru. As a result, demand for replacements helped to drive up rates.
Read moreLittle change has been seen over the weekend despite the slowdown in activity for LR2s. A couple of LR1s have been fixed at last done levels of 55@W135. Overall rates have been pretty stable.
Read moreThe LRs market softened over the week even though tonnage supply appears to be tight. While there was no lack of fresh cargoes, rates saw a downward correction during holidays in the East. Rates are expected to hold steady for now.
Read moreThe LR2 market held steady to firm over the weekend, with tight tonnage seen in the Persian Gulf. Rates may firm further over the rest of the month should there be an influx of cargoes. In contrast, sentiment in the LR1 market appears to be more on the downside.
Read moreThe LR market firmed yesterday as LR1 rates went up. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be sufficient activity to support the momentum given the fact it is a short week and some participants are away during extended holidays. The position list in the AG for both segments looks healthy for now.
Read moreLittle has changed in the LR market since last Friday as owners failed to grab a premium for Qatar loading. Abundant tonnage supply in the region seems to have outweighed any effect from the Qatar diplomatic crisis. Market sentiment is soft for now.
Read moreNothing much has changed from yesterday with cargo enquiries staying muted across the LR1 & LR2 Market amidst a healthy list of ships.
Read moreThe LR Market held stable overnight. Fixing Window is in the 3rd decade with only a handful of cargoes surfacing. However, owner sentiment remained optimistic and unwilling to succumb to the downward pressure brought about by the amply supplied tonnage list.
Read moreAs the week drew to a close, we failed to see an uptick in rates. Market sentiment appears to be be more on the downside. With the LR2 and LR1 Market amply supplied, how much further will freight rates drop? With the Qatar Diplomatic crisis causing a bit of an uproar in the industry, we’ve yet to see the impact it has on rates. We will also be expecting to see the LRs competing for the MR business.
Read moreLR2 rates on the AG/JPN route were stable at WS90 except for the Qatar loading which requires a premium of 2.5 points as supported by recent fixture. LR1 rates were under pressure as most fixtures were concluded at WS105. Naphtha cargo inquiries are abundant but it was not enough to light up the shadow casted by the shortage of other product cargo inquires
Read moreLR2 rates did not undergo any change while LR1 rates seem to be softening a bit. Any potential issues with co-loading seem to have been resolved with the lifting of restrictions on vessel movements to and from Qatar.
Read moreSufficient activity on the LR2s has seen rates stabilize. With the fixing window moving into 3rd Decade June, an influx of cargoes is necessary for rates to improve. On the LR1s, supply seems to be outpacing demand though rates remain stable at present.
Read moreLR2 rates were stable while owners trying to bring up rates without success. LR1 rates were in similar status as last few fixtures on the AG/JPN route are fixed basis 55@WS110. There are limited number of ships available for the next few days but the list get long for the next few weeks. Rates are facing downward pressure.
Read moreLR2 rates in the East are not moving up any further after climbing by 2.5 points earlier. LR1 rates on the other hand have inched up slightly with 55@WS110 on subs for the first decade of June. Charterers are currently being squeezed a bit as they try to find replacements amidst a shorter list of ships.
Read moreThe LR2 market remained relatively quiet on Monday, while the LR1 market has picked up with current fixtures being concluded at WS105 as owners put up resistance. However the LR1 position list is still long, with a number of vessels currently fixed on shorthaul voyages and expected to be reopen soon.
Read moreThere has been nothing much to speculate about the LR market since last week. On a positive side, LR2 Owners are putting up stiff resistance against fixing at lower than last done rates. Though the position list still looks healthy, a handful more cargo enquiries are helping to keep the rates stable. For the LR1s, Owners would be looking to keep their ships from sitting with short hauls till the next fixing window.
Read moreBoth LR1 and LR2 rates have stabilized at current market levels, with the market appearing to have bottomed out. This is largely due to a relatively balanced tonnage list and cargoes. Owners are currently digging in their heels and refusing to fix at lower than last done levels, while charterers are trying to take advantage of lower rates before they recover.
Read more75@W85 was the benchmark at which most 1st Decade June cargoes were concluded. Owners are holding firm and putting up some resistance. While the tonnage list remains healthy with ample supply, Owners are still seeking to get better returns amidst a softening market.
Read moreLR Rates continued their downwards spiral as tonnage continued to accumulate as each day passes. It seems like we are back to Square one again as earnings now hover within the 5k per day region. Lower demand for naphtha cargoes in the North has been a major factor behind this slowdown.
Read moreTo start the week off on a positive note, rates on the MRs have picked up considerably, notably in the North region. An influx of cargoes for 3rd decade May has driven the surge in rates.
Read moreIt does seem as though Charterers have prevailed after all. With the supply of ships outpacing demand, rates continued to weaken for both LR2 & LR1 Mkts. Charterers are expected to go in for the kill, with the question being whether Owners will be able to resist.
Read moreLR2 rates have continued to ease, hitting 75@W90 as the surge in 2nd & 3rd decade May cargoes has proven unsustainable amidst a lengthy tonnage list. It seems as though Chtrs are withholding their cargoes and sitting back to see how much further rates will drop.
Read moreIt’s been a quiet start to the week with activity yet to pick up even as we approach midweek. The LR2 fixing window is already moving into 1st decade June amidst a lengthy list of 20 vessels up to end May.
Read moreThe TC 1 inched slightly upwards with outstanding third decade May cargoes still lingering around waiting to be fixed. With Owners still bullish about rates due to tighter tonnage availability, Chtrs seem to be struggling slightly in getting things done
Read moreThe LR2 Market continues to firm up as indices inched their way up overnight. Definitely a positive start to the week as Sentiment seems to be more bullish, with owners definitely seeking to do higher than last done rates.
Read moreLR Owners saw redemption last week as rates rebounded and sentiment was strong. Position list on the LR2s looks a tad tight with fresh enquiries looming.
Read moreThe LR2 market firmed overnight as a tighter position list caused rates to inch up slightly, leaving Charterers scrambling to cover their cargoes. Apparently there are a couple of 2nd Decade cargoes still outstanding while most 3rd Decade cargoes are emerging and being put on subs.
Read moreWe’re starting to see more punchy numbers for the LR2s. There is no denying that Owner sentiment is much firmer and Owners are getting bullish in seeking higher rates. W90 has been rptd to be placed on subs for SKS Demini by YNCC. We believe Owners will use that as a certain benchmark now and not settle for anything lesser.
Read moreApproaching Golden Week, Chartering activity has been rather brisk causing rates to be firm/stable. The clearing of the backlog of ships on the position list has given Owners optimism moving forward.
Read moreAs LR Owners are hoping for a resurgent market, but it does not seem to be happening anytime soon. With the increased activity on the LR1s to keep the rates stable, Owners are standing firm in their unwillingness to drop rates.
Read moreActivity seemed brisk over the past 2 days on the LR market at what seems to be almost bottomed out rates, 75@W85 and 55@W100 respectively
Read moreThere wasn’t much activity last night with London being away on holidays. Rates maintained at last done levels with the continuation of sluggish demand on the LR Market.
Read moreA quiet end to last week. It seems like the Market is bottoming out all around the East Of Suez. Activity has been rather muted on the LRs and MRs.
Read moreAs the week draws to a close and we head into the long weekend, we failed to see an uptick in yesterday’s activity. Market sentiment appears to be be more on the downside. With the LR2 Market dropping another 10pts ,75@W90 which BP placed on subs for a main haul on the Maersk Petrel, how much further will freight rates fall?
Read moreA dearth of cargoes continues to weigh heavily on the LR market, where rates are dropping sharply and rapidly. With the supply of ships outpacing cargo demand, the rates are only going to spiral downwards.
Read moreThe Market seems to be set with gloomy overtones. Lessened activity and a piling list of ships has taken its toll on the LR Market out of the Arabian Gulf. How much more room there is for LR rates to fall.
Read moreAs expected, muted cargo enquiries have caused the LR2 rates to come off quicker than expected. Current benchmark is 75@W100. While Owners are trying to be resilient, it seems like there is little they can do about it.
Read moreThe LR2 market remains listless with very little activity going on. It is now a question on everyone’s mind on where this market will bottom out. Tonnage is beginning to pile up week on week with lower enquiries seen. Owner resistance on rates seems to be wearing off as most are willing to offer in at lower than last done levels.
Read moreRates on the LR2s have begun to show cracks as cargo enquiries remain scarce amidst a tight supply of ships.. We won’t be surprised if cargo flows remain muted over the next 2 weeks due to lower spot naphtha purchases for 2H April compared to 1H.
Read moreAn active start to the week as the LR market held steady with decent activity. On the LR2s, tonnage seemed to be slightly tight for the month of April, however the lack of fresh enquiries has kept a lid on freight rates
Read moreThe LR2 market was stable overnight with a handful of fixtures placed on subs at what would be a benchmark level of 75@W110 for 1st Decade April cargoes. The list of ships still looks fairly healthy up to 2nd decade April while relatively strong Owner sentiment continues to drive the market.
Read moreThe LR Market has started the week off on a stable note. Rates are more date-sensitive on the LR2s as 1st decade April enquiries lessen. In comparison, the LR1s are holding steady with still uncovered cargoes for 3rd decade March.
Read moreRates held steady overnight on the LR2s. Though positions remain tight for the 3rd decade window, there aren’t many cargoes left either. With fresh enquiries emerging for 1st decade April, it seems like the focus has shifted there instead.
Read moreBullish sentiment was sustained across the AG/WCI Market in the product tanker sector. It will be interesting to see what levels the remnants of 3rd Decade cargoes get fixed at amidst buoyant Owner sentiment.
Read moreFirming sentiment has been seen across the AG/WCI market. It does seem pretty optimistic for LR1 and LR2 Owners. It will be a challenge to get 3rd decade cargoes fixed anywhere near last done rates of W105 lvls with the bullish sentiment setting in, brought about by the tight position list up to end March.
Read moreOwners saw redemption last week as rates rebounded and sentiment was strong. Though the position list on the LR2s looks a tad tight, there has not been much fresh enquiries looming
Read moreThe LR Market continues to firm up as indices inched their way up overnight. Sentiment seems to be more bullish, with owners definitely seeking to do higher than last done rates.
Read moreStrong sentiment loomed overnight for the LR2s. With 2nd decade cargoes still seeking tonnage, rates are holding steady as presented by a healthy tonnage list.
Read moreRates seem to be stable on the LR2s but there are doubts if they can remain at current levels for much longer as cargo enquiries start diminishing.
Read moreActivity on the LR2 Mkt seemed stable as Owners showed some resilience since the drop to W105. Rates continue to linger around last done lvls.
Read moreCharterers are in no hurry to fix their enquiries with LR2 and LR1 tonnage availability remaining relatively healthy. Current freight levels are at 75@W105 and 55@W115 respectively.
Read moreRates on the LR2s have begun to ease as expected, down to 75@W105. The surge in 1st decade March cargoes has proven unsustainable amidst a lengthy tonnage list and there is room for rates to fall further.
Read moreA week has passed since the sharp turnaround in the LR2 market when rates hit a high of W120. Rates have started coming off shade by shade from weakened cargo enquiries.
Read moreRates continue to hold steady on the LR2s but doubts remain if they can remain at current levels for much longer as cargo enquiries start diminishing. Mkt sentiment is currently around he W112.5-W115 lvl as supply continues to be tight.
Read moreRates held steady overnight on the LR2s as Owners continue picking up the remnants of 1st Decade March cargoes. Things are also looking bright for the LR1s with a substantial umber of enquiries to keep rates firm.
Read moreA redeeming week it was for Owners last week with rates steadying throughout. The question looming on everyone’s minds is how long will the rates stay stable.
Read moreComing to the end of what has been nothing short of a steady week, we have not seen the LR2 indices creeping up any further. With the highest W120 being concluded on an Ag/Jpn voyage, the question on most minds is whether rates have peaked too soon.
Read moreThe LR2 market is currently at its firmest over the last 4-5 weeks. Most fixtures are being concluded at W120, boosting daily earnings slightly above the 10k/day mark. Rates have shot up by 30 world scale points within the week alone. Rates for the AG/West route have increased significantly as well, up by at least USD250k.
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market saw an influx of activity on the release of January AG stems. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route rose by w5 points from last week. Further gains were limited by a lengthy position list that rolled over from December...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market saw further downwards pressure as charterers covered the remaining stems for third decade December. A low fixture count for December (down by 10% m-o-m) and ample vessel supply continued to weigh on VLCC rates, with rates for the key AG/Japan route down by w6 points on the week...
Read moreAsian VLCC rates continued to soften over the week as the expected flurry of December cargoes has failed to materialize thus far, leading to a build-up in tonnage in key loading areas. Rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route dropped by w8.5 points w-o-w to w57.5, below the psychological level of w60. In line with the...
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market took an unexpected turn this week as rates underwent a downward correction. Fixing activity for first decade December remained muted as owners succumbed to pressure from charterers. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route fell by w4 points w-o-w after hovering around w70 since the start of the month...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market saw a fairly uneventful week, with December stems only released at the end of the week. Stiff resistance from owners of modern tonnage, winter sentiment as well as growing bunker prices lent support to rates. As such, rates for the key AG/Japan route held steady at w70 points from the week before...
Read moreVLCC rates for the key AG/Japan route edged up by w0.5 points from last week as owners of modern vessels held firm amidst ample availability of handicapped tonnage. Activity was fairly subdued despite the rollover into the third decade November fixing window as most market participants were away at a conference in Dubai. With quite...
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market saw a lull in activity as we remain in the second decade November fixing window, with rates mostly flat across the board. Rates for the key AG/Japan route dipped by w0.5 points from last week. Unipec continued to take a large chunk of vessels on COAs while charterers continued...
Read moreDespite firm chartering activity towards the end of the week, Asian VLCC rates were capped by charterers favoring handicapped tonnage as well as a significant number of vessels taken on COAs. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route edged down by w2.5 points w-o-w. Underlying sentiment remains firm on the back of seasonal winter...
Read moreAsian Aframax rates recovered from recent lows as charterers rushed to book year-end cargoes before the Christmas holidays, leading a flurry of activity especially in the Indonesia/Singapore region. Rates for the key Indo/Japan route basis 80 kt jumped by w13 points w-o-w to w110 as of today while rates for the key AG/East route grew...
Read moreICE Brent futures surged to their highest in more than 2 years on Monday, crossing the $65/bbl mark due to the unplanned shutdown of the Forties crude oil pipeline for several weeks for repairs. The pipeline is a major artery which carries up to 450 kb/d from the North Sea to Scotland, with the Forties...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market has been facing unrelenting downwards pressure in recent weeks, with rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route plunging by w15.5 points m-o-m to w54.5 as of today. This translates into $7.99/mt, which is 44% lower than that of the year before. A smaller December loading program in the AG as well as...
Read moreSouth Korea’s overall petroleum product demand saw remarkable growth in October, rising by 0.5% m-o-m and 3.8% y-o-y to an eight-month high of 2.58 mmb/d. Demand growth was largely led by naphtha which surged by 16.1% y-o-y. Booming petrochemical demand drove naphtha demand to an all-time high of 1.32 mmb/d as high prices rendered LPG...
Read moreThe Asian MR segment is holding firm in all three key regions (AG/WCI, Singapore and North Asia). Rates in all regions have been creeping up steadily since the start of November as cargo demand outpaced vessel supply, tightening position lists in the region. In the AG/WCI market, robust demand to move naphtha cargoes East as...
Read moreAsia’s front-month regrade (a measure of jet fuel’s relative strength to gasoil) recently eased from last Thursday’s 19-month high of $1.58/bbl but remains relatively strong at $1.32/bbl. While the surge in the Asian regrade can be partly attributed to seasonality during the winter heating oil demand season, the bulk of support is coming from the...
Read moreThe recent Iraq-Kurdish conflict heralds the return of the geopolitical risk premium in oil prices. While the ongoing rally in crude prices is underpinned by fundamentals such as robust demand growth, ongoing OPEC supply cuts and falling US crude inventories, growing tensions in the Middle East have been playing an increasingly significant role. With Iraq...
Read moreFirm naphtha demand in Asia has drawn more cargoes from the US Gulf Coast in October than recent months. At least 5 tankers (4 LR1s and 1 MR) have been fixed in October to load naphtha from the USGC to Japan and Korea. In comparison, around 1-2 tankers per month have been fixed over the...
Read moreThe PMAX market experienced a strong week on the back of a surge in the East Coast South American market. Fresh grain cargoes and shrivelled tonnage lists meant that some owners were able to command higher rates on a DOP basis.
Read moreThe East Coast South America market continued to be the focal point in the dry bulk segment for the past week or so. A slow-down in activity in the region lead to a slight decline in the PMAX market with trips to the Far East from ECSA being rated (on an APS basis) around the mid $10,000s/day range with a ballast bonus of $ 500,000.
Read moreRates in the PMAX market came off w-o-w as a slowdown in activity out of East Coast South America impacted freight levels in both basins. Trips to the Far East from ECSA were being rated (on an APS basis) around the low $10,000s/day with a decreased ballast bonus of $500,000.
Read moreIn contrast to the substantially under-performing Capesize market, the PMAX market kept strengthening w-o-w on the back of a strong East Coast South America (ECSA) and North Atlantic market. Charterers were more than willing to take delivery of ships coming from the Far East and the Indian Ocean region.
Read moreAlthough the Capesize market ended on a depressing note w-o-w, the rest of the Dry Bulk market had a positive vibe with the North Atlantic market and East Coast South America (ECSA) firming up on the back of improved exports.
Read moreThe revival of cargo flows out of East Coast South America (ECSA) after a lull period resulted in an improved BDI w-o-w. Tighter tonnage supply in the North Atlantic region and exports out of Australia and Indonesia into China provided some support to the Pacific basin as well.
Read moreA lack of fresh cargoes out of East Coast South America, NOPAC and the Pacific has led to a steady build-up of tonnage in both basins. The market has started to favour the charterers as ship-owners were seen competing for the same cargoes yet again.
Read moreWith the UK-US and Pacific region in the holiday mood, chartering activity has been a bit slow this week. The Atlantic PMAX market was flat w-o-w but as tonnage lists were still swollen, rates concluded were below last traded levels.
Read moreBoth TC1 and TC5 saw a boost at the start of the week as both markets firmed considerably. With a thinning tonnage list, Owners sentiment is strong and they are bullish in getting higher than last done rates. With both LR2 and LR1 markets complementing each other, hopefully the current pace of fixing will sustain as the list of cargo enquiries builds up. It will be interesting to see what this week brings as the rates start creeping upwards.
Read moreBoth LR1 and LR2 markets held steady on Friday as a few fixtures repeated the last done numbers. With the Saudis coming back from the holiday, more activities are expected and it strengthens owners’ sentiment. We shall see what it brings in this coming week.
Read moreOver the week, the LR2 market has seen little change with healthy amount of cargoes. LR1 rates dropped a few points and now owners are standing their ground. There is no shortage of cargoes but ships are abundant as well. Overall, it is steady for now.
Read moreThe LR2 market has seen 75@W93.5 repeated several times for the key AG/Japan route. The LR1 market is relatively stable, with owners indicating that further downward pressure is expected with ample ship supply. As Japan was off on holiday yesterday, more activity is expected to come into play today.
Read moreAs more cargoes flood the market, both the LR1 and LR2 markets firmed after a quiet start to the week. Tighter requirements from charterers looking for tonnage with last cargo naphtha also lent support to the market. LR2 rates were up by W10 points from the beginning of the week to 75@W102.5.
Read moreThe LR2 market held steady over the weekend after rates inched up on Friday. It seems as though Chtrs are withholding second decade August cargoes to avoid the firm market. The LR1 market is stable as well but healthy ship supply may keep a lid on rates.
Read moreThe LR2 Market firmed up considerably over the last week. Rates have been relatively stable approaching the end of the week and little has changed over the weekend with ships been put on subs at 75kt@W114. LR1 rates have not been affected by LR2 rates spiking and held steady since beginning of last week till now.
Read moreThe outage at Shell Pernis refinery has successfully boosted the momentum of the LR market with more middle distillates flowing to West from East. Strong owner sentiment has sent rates higher and higher. It has been a fruitful week for the LR market, supported by the fundamentally tight position list and surge in demand to move cargoes West.
Read moreLR rates held steady over the weekend as charterers dug their heels in and refused to give in to owners’ attempts to push up rates. As the fixing window moves forward, more fresh cargoes are needed to sustain rates at current levels.
Read moreThe LR segment has been on fire over the past two weeks due to strong naphtha demand in Asia and refinery outages in Europe. LR2 rates have been relatively stable while LR1 rates firmed up as some vessel schedules were affected by typhoon Noru. As a result, demand for replacements helped to drive up rates.
Read moreLittle change has been seen over the weekend despite the slowdown in activity for LR2s. A couple of LR1s have been fixed at last done levels of 55@W135. Overall rates have been pretty stable.
Read moreThe LRs market softened over the week even though tonnage supply appears to be tight. While there was no lack of fresh cargoes, rates saw a downward correction during holidays in the East. Rates are expected to hold steady for now.
Read moreThe LR2 market held steady to firm over the weekend, with tight tonnage seen in the Persian Gulf. Rates may firm further over the rest of the month should there be an influx of cargoes. In contrast, sentiment in the LR1 market appears to be more on the downside.
Read moreThe LR market firmed yesterday as LR1 rates went up. However, it remains to be seen whether there will be sufficient activity to support the momentum given the fact it is a short week and some participants are away during extended holidays. The position list in the AG for both segments looks healthy for now.
Read moreLittle has changed in the LR market since last Friday as owners failed to grab a premium for Qatar loading. Abundant tonnage supply in the region seems to have outweighed any effect from the Qatar diplomatic crisis. Market sentiment is soft for now.
Read moreNothing much has changed from yesterday with cargo enquiries staying muted across the LR1 & LR2 Market amidst a healthy list of ships.
Read moreThe LR Market held stable overnight. Fixing Window is in the 3rd decade with only a handful of cargoes surfacing. However, owner sentiment remained optimistic and unwilling to succumb to the downward pressure brought about by the amply supplied tonnage list.
Read moreAs the week drew to a close, we failed to see an uptick in rates. Market sentiment appears to be be more on the downside. With the LR2 and LR1 Market amply supplied, how much further will freight rates drop? With the Qatar Diplomatic crisis causing a bit of an uproar in the industry, we’ve yet to see the impact it has on rates. We will also be expecting to see the LRs competing for the MR business.
Read moreLR2 rates on the AG/JPN route were stable at WS90 except for the Qatar loading which requires a premium of 2.5 points as supported by recent fixture. LR1 rates were under pressure as most fixtures were concluded at WS105. Naphtha cargo inquiries are abundant but it was not enough to light up the shadow casted by the shortage of other product cargo inquires
Read moreLR2 rates did not undergo any change while LR1 rates seem to be softening a bit. Any potential issues with co-loading seem to have been resolved with the lifting of restrictions on vessel movements to and from Qatar.
Read moreSufficient activity on the LR2s has seen rates stabilize. With the fixing window moving into 3rd Decade June, an influx of cargoes is necessary for rates to improve. On the LR1s, supply seems to be outpacing demand though rates remain stable at present.
Read moreLR2 rates were stable while owners trying to bring up rates without success. LR1 rates were in similar status as last few fixtures on the AG/JPN route are fixed basis 55@WS110. There are limited number of ships available for the next few days but the list get long for the next few weeks. Rates are facing downward pressure.
Read moreLR2 rates in the East are not moving up any further after climbing by 2.5 points earlier. LR1 rates on the other hand have inched up slightly with 55@WS110 on subs for the first decade of June. Charterers are currently being squeezed a bit as they try to find replacements amidst a shorter list of ships.
Read moreThe LR2 market remained relatively quiet on Monday, while the LR1 market has picked up with current fixtures being concluded at WS105 as owners put up resistance. However the LR1 position list is still long, with a number of vessels currently fixed on shorthaul voyages and expected to be reopen soon.
Read moreThere has been nothing much to speculate about the LR market since last week. On a positive side, LR2 Owners are putting up stiff resistance against fixing at lower than last done rates. Though the position list still looks healthy, a handful more cargo enquiries are helping to keep the rates stable. For the LR1s, Owners would be looking to keep their ships from sitting with short hauls till the next fixing window.
Read moreBoth LR1 and LR2 rates have stabilized at current market levels, with the market appearing to have bottomed out. This is largely due to a relatively balanced tonnage list and cargoes. Owners are currently digging in their heels and refusing to fix at lower than last done levels, while charterers are trying to take advantage of lower rates before they recover.
Read more75@W85 was the benchmark at which most 1st Decade June cargoes were concluded. Owners are holding firm and putting up some resistance. While the tonnage list remains healthy with ample supply, Owners are still seeking to get better returns amidst a softening market.
Read moreLR Rates continued their downwards spiral as tonnage continued to accumulate as each day passes. It seems like we are back to Square one again as earnings now hover within the 5k per day region. Lower demand for naphtha cargoes in the North has been a major factor behind this slowdown.
Read moreTo start the week off on a positive note, rates on the MRs have picked up considerably, notably in the North region. An influx of cargoes for 3rd decade May has driven the surge in rates.
Read moreIt does seem as though Charterers have prevailed after all. With the supply of ships outpacing demand, rates continued to weaken for both LR2 & LR1 Mkts. Charterers are expected to go in for the kill, with the question being whether Owners will be able to resist.
Read moreLR2 rates have continued to ease, hitting 75@W90 as the surge in 2nd & 3rd decade May cargoes has proven unsustainable amidst a lengthy tonnage list. It seems as though Chtrs are withholding their cargoes and sitting back to see how much further rates will drop.
Read moreIt’s been a quiet start to the week with activity yet to pick up even as we approach midweek. The LR2 fixing window is already moving into 1st decade June amidst a lengthy list of 20 vessels up to end May.
Read moreThe TC 1 inched slightly upwards with outstanding third decade May cargoes still lingering around waiting to be fixed. With Owners still bullish about rates due to tighter tonnage availability, Chtrs seem to be struggling slightly in getting things done
Read moreThe LR2 Market continues to firm up as indices inched their way up overnight. Definitely a positive start to the week as Sentiment seems to be more bullish, with owners definitely seeking to do higher than last done rates.
Read moreLR Owners saw redemption last week as rates rebounded and sentiment was strong. Position list on the LR2s looks a tad tight with fresh enquiries looming.
Read moreThe LR2 market firmed overnight as a tighter position list caused rates to inch up slightly, leaving Charterers scrambling to cover their cargoes. Apparently there are a couple of 2nd Decade cargoes still outstanding while most 3rd Decade cargoes are emerging and being put on subs.
Read moreWe’re starting to see more punchy numbers for the LR2s. There is no denying that Owner sentiment is much firmer and Owners are getting bullish in seeking higher rates. W90 has been rptd to be placed on subs for SKS Demini by YNCC. We believe Owners will use that as a certain benchmark now and not settle for anything lesser.
Read moreApproaching Golden Week, Chartering activity has been rather brisk causing rates to be firm/stable. The clearing of the backlog of ships on the position list has given Owners optimism moving forward.
Read moreAs LR Owners are hoping for a resurgent market, but it does not seem to be happening anytime soon. With the increased activity on the LR1s to keep the rates stable, Owners are standing firm in their unwillingness to drop rates.
Read moreActivity seemed brisk over the past 2 days on the LR market at what seems to be almost bottomed out rates, 75@W85 and 55@W100 respectively
Read moreThere wasn’t much activity last night with London being away on holidays. Rates maintained at last done levels with the continuation of sluggish demand on the LR Market.
Read moreA quiet end to last week. It seems like the Market is bottoming out all around the East Of Suez. Activity has been rather muted on the LRs and MRs.
Read moreAs the week draws to a close and we head into the long weekend, we failed to see an uptick in yesterday’s activity. Market sentiment appears to be be more on the downside. With the LR2 Market dropping another 10pts ,75@W90 which BP placed on subs for a main haul on the Maersk Petrel, how much further will freight rates fall?
Read moreA dearth of cargoes continues to weigh heavily on the LR market, where rates are dropping sharply and rapidly. With the supply of ships outpacing cargo demand, the rates are only going to spiral downwards.
Read moreThe Market seems to be set with gloomy overtones. Lessened activity and a piling list of ships has taken its toll on the LR Market out of the Arabian Gulf. How much more room there is for LR rates to fall.
Read moreAs expected, muted cargo enquiries have caused the LR2 rates to come off quicker than expected. Current benchmark is 75@W100. While Owners are trying to be resilient, it seems like there is little they can do about it.
Read moreThe LR2 market remains listless with very little activity going on. It is now a question on everyone’s mind on where this market will bottom out. Tonnage is beginning to pile up week on week with lower enquiries seen. Owner resistance on rates seems to be wearing off as most are willing to offer in at lower than last done levels.
Read moreRates on the LR2s have begun to show cracks as cargo enquiries remain scarce amidst a tight supply of ships.. We won’t be surprised if cargo flows remain muted over the next 2 weeks due to lower spot naphtha purchases for 2H April compared to 1H.
Read moreAn active start to the week as the LR market held steady with decent activity. On the LR2s, tonnage seemed to be slightly tight for the month of April, however the lack of fresh enquiries has kept a lid on freight rates
Read moreThe LR2 market was stable overnight with a handful of fixtures placed on subs at what would be a benchmark level of 75@W110 for 1st Decade April cargoes. The list of ships still looks fairly healthy up to 2nd decade April while relatively strong Owner sentiment continues to drive the market.
Read moreThe LR Market has started the week off on a stable note. Rates are more date-sensitive on the LR2s as 1st decade April enquiries lessen. In comparison, the LR1s are holding steady with still uncovered cargoes for 3rd decade March.
Read moreRates held steady overnight on the LR2s. Though positions remain tight for the 3rd decade window, there aren’t many cargoes left either. With fresh enquiries emerging for 1st decade April, it seems like the focus has shifted there instead.
Read moreBullish sentiment was sustained across the AG/WCI Market in the product tanker sector. It will be interesting to see what levels the remnants of 3rd Decade cargoes get fixed at amidst buoyant Owner sentiment.
Read moreFirming sentiment has been seen across the AG/WCI market. It does seem pretty optimistic for LR1 and LR2 Owners. It will be a challenge to get 3rd decade cargoes fixed anywhere near last done rates of W105 lvls with the bullish sentiment setting in, brought about by the tight position list up to end March.
Read moreOwners saw redemption last week as rates rebounded and sentiment was strong. Though the position list on the LR2s looks a tad tight, there has not been much fresh enquiries looming
Read moreThe LR Market continues to firm up as indices inched their way up overnight. Sentiment seems to be more bullish, with owners definitely seeking to do higher than last done rates.
Read moreStrong sentiment loomed overnight for the LR2s. With 2nd decade cargoes still seeking tonnage, rates are holding steady as presented by a healthy tonnage list.
Read moreRates seem to be stable on the LR2s but there are doubts if they can remain at current levels for much longer as cargo enquiries start diminishing.
Read moreActivity on the LR2 Mkt seemed stable as Owners showed some resilience since the drop to W105. Rates continue to linger around last done lvls.
Read moreCharterers are in no hurry to fix their enquiries with LR2 and LR1 tonnage availability remaining relatively healthy. Current freight levels are at 75@W105 and 55@W115 respectively.
Read moreRates on the LR2s have begun to ease as expected, down to 75@W105. The surge in 1st decade March cargoes has proven unsustainable amidst a lengthy tonnage list and there is room for rates to fall further.
Read moreA week has passed since the sharp turnaround in the LR2 market when rates hit a high of W120. Rates have started coming off shade by shade from weakened cargo enquiries.
Read moreRates continue to hold steady on the LR2s but doubts remain if they can remain at current levels for much longer as cargo enquiries start diminishing. Mkt sentiment is currently around he W112.5-W115 lvl as supply continues to be tight.
Read moreRates held steady overnight on the LR2s as Owners continue picking up the remnants of 1st Decade March cargoes. Things are also looking bright for the LR1s with a substantial umber of enquiries to keep rates firm.
Read moreA redeeming week it was for Owners last week with rates steadying throughout. The question looming on everyone’s minds is how long will the rates stay stable.
Read moreComing to the end of what has been nothing short of a steady week, we have not seen the LR2 indices creeping up any further. With the highest W120 being concluded on an Ag/Jpn voyage, the question on most minds is whether rates have peaked too soon.
Read moreThe LR2 market is currently at its firmest over the last 4-5 weeks. Most fixtures are being concluded at W120, boosting daily earnings slightly above the 10k/day mark. Rates have shot up by 30 world scale points within the week alone. Rates for the AG/West route have increased significantly as well, up by at least USD250k.
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market saw an influx of activity on the release of January AG stems. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route rose by w5 points from last week. Further gains were limited by a lengthy position list that rolled over from December...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market saw further downwards pressure as charterers covered the remaining stems for third decade December. A low fixture count for December (down by 10% m-o-m) and ample vessel supply continued to weigh on VLCC rates, with rates for the key AG/Japan route down by w6 points on the week...
Read moreAsian VLCC rates continued to soften over the week as the expected flurry of December cargoes has failed to materialize thus far, leading to a build-up in tonnage in key loading areas. Rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route dropped by w8.5 points w-o-w to w57.5, below the psychological level of w60. In line with the...
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market took an unexpected turn this week as rates underwent a downward correction. Fixing activity for first decade December remained muted as owners succumbed to pressure from charterers. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route fell by w4 points w-o-w after hovering around w70 since the start of the month...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market saw a fairly uneventful week, with December stems only released at the end of the week. Stiff resistance from owners of modern tonnage, winter sentiment as well as growing bunker prices lent support to rates. As such, rates for the key AG/Japan route held steady at w70 points from the week before...
Read moreVLCC rates for the key AG/Japan route edged up by w0.5 points from last week as owners of modern vessels held firm amidst ample availability of handicapped tonnage. Activity was fairly subdued despite the rollover into the third decade November fixing window as most market participants were away at a conference in Dubai. With quite...
Read moreThe East of Suez VLCC market saw a lull in activity as we remain in the second decade November fixing window, with rates mostly flat across the board. Rates for the key AG/Japan route dipped by w0.5 points from last week. Unipec continued to take a large chunk of vessels on COAs while charterers continued...
Read moreDespite firm chartering activity towards the end of the week, Asian VLCC rates were capped by charterers favoring handicapped tonnage as well as a significant number of vessels taken on COAs. As such, rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route edged down by w2.5 points w-o-w. Underlying sentiment remains firm on the back of seasonal winter...
Read moreAsian Aframax rates recovered from recent lows as charterers rushed to book year-end cargoes before the Christmas holidays, leading a flurry of activity especially in the Indonesia/Singapore region. Rates for the key Indo/Japan route basis 80 kt jumped by w13 points w-o-w to w110 as of today while rates for the key AG/East route grew...
Read moreICE Brent futures surged to their highest in more than 2 years on Monday, crossing the $65/bbl mark due to the unplanned shutdown of the Forties crude oil pipeline for several weeks for repairs. The pipeline is a major artery which carries up to 450 kb/d from the North Sea to Scotland, with the Forties...
Read moreThe Asian VLCC market has been facing unrelenting downwards pressure in recent weeks, with rates for the benchmark AG/Japan route plunging by w15.5 points m-o-m to w54.5 as of today. This translates into $7.99/mt, which is 44% lower than that of the year before. A smaller December loading program in the AG as well as...
Read moreSouth Korea’s overall petroleum product demand saw remarkable growth in October, rising by 0.5% m-o-m and 3.8% y-o-y to an eight-month high of 2.58 mmb/d. Demand growth was largely led by naphtha which surged by 16.1% y-o-y. Booming petrochemical demand drove naphtha demand to an all-time high of 1.32 mmb/d as high prices rendered LPG...
Read moreThe Asian MR segment is holding firm in all three key regions (AG/WCI, Singapore and North Asia). Rates in all regions have been creeping up steadily since the start of November as cargo demand outpaced vessel supply, tightening position lists in the region. In the AG/WCI market, robust demand to move naphtha cargoes East as...
Read moreAsia’s front-month regrade (a measure of jet fuel’s relative strength to gasoil) recently eased from last Thursday’s 19-month high of $1.58/bbl but remains relatively strong at $1.32/bbl. While the surge in the Asian regrade can be partly attributed to seasonality during the winter heating oil demand season, the bulk of support is coming from the...
Read moreThe recent Iraq-Kurdish conflict heralds the return of the geopolitical risk premium in oil prices. While the ongoing rally in crude prices is underpinned by fundamentals such as robust demand growth, ongoing OPEC supply cuts and falling US crude inventories, growing tensions in the Middle East have been playing an increasingly significant role. With Iraq...
Read moreFirm naphtha demand in Asia has drawn more cargoes from the US Gulf Coast in October than recent months. At least 5 tankers (4 LR1s and 1 MR) have been fixed in October to load naphtha from the USGC to Japan and Korea. In comparison, around 1-2 tankers per month have been fixed over the...
Read moreThe PMAX market experienced a strong week on the back of a surge in the East Coast South American market. Fresh grain cargoes and shrivelled tonnage lists meant that some owners were able to command higher rates on a DOP basis.
Read moreThe East Coast South America market continued to be the focal point in the dry bulk segment for the past week or so. A slow-down in activity in the region lead to a slight decline in the PMAX market with trips to the Far East from ECSA being rated (on an APS basis) around the mid $10,000s/day range with a ballast bonus of $ 500,000.
Read moreRates in the PMAX market came off w-o-w as a slowdown in activity out of East Coast South America impacted freight levels in both basins. Trips to the Far East from ECSA were being rated (on an APS basis) around the low $10,000s/day with a decreased ballast bonus of $500,000.
Read moreIn contrast to the substantially under-performing Capesize market, the PMAX market kept strengthening w-o-w on the back of a strong East Coast South America (ECSA) and North Atlantic market. Charterers were more than willing to take delivery of ships coming from the Far East and the Indian Ocean region.
Read moreAlthough the Capesize market ended on a depressing note w-o-w, the rest of the Dry Bulk market had a positive vibe with the North Atlantic market and East Coast South America (ECSA) firming up on the back of improved exports.
Read moreThe revival of cargo flows out of East Coast South America (ECSA) after a lull period resulted in an improved BDI w-o-w. Tighter tonnage supply in the North Atlantic region and exports out of Australia and Indonesia into China provided some support to the Pacific basin as well.
Read moreA lack of fresh cargoes out of East Coast South America, NOPAC and the Pacific has led to a steady build-up of tonnage in both basins. The market has started to favour the charterers as ship-owners were seen competing for the same cargoes yet again.
Read moreWith the UK-US and Pacific region in the holiday mood, chartering activity has been a bit slow this week. The Atlantic PMAX market was flat w-o-w but as tonnage lists were still swollen, rates concluded were below last traded levels.
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