Freight markets turned sharply cautious in the week that closed on 27 February 2026, as escalating tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz forced a reassessment of risk, routing and pricing across global dry bulk trades
Drawing on data from the week ending 21 November 2025, this report captures the steady yet subtly shifting dynamics in the Handy and Ultramax markets, where regional micro-currents shaped sentiment and strategy
The first week of October brought diverging fortunes for geared bulkers—Handysizes show strength while Ultramaxes face headwinds. Regional shifts and upcoming demand patterns reveal where opportunities are emerging next