THE FREIGHT MARKET’S DIVIDING LINE: FIRM RATES, SELECTIVE OPPORTUNITIES

By Iakovos (Jack) Archontakis
Senior Maritime Strategy Consultant – Chartering Executive & TMC Shipping Commercial Director

Ultramax & Handysize | Week ending 16 October 2026

The dry bulk market closed the week on a firm but increasingly selective footing, with tight prompt tonnage and sustained cargo demand supporting the South Atlantic, Far East and selected Indian Ocean routes, while weaker paper sentiment, limited fresh enquiry and growing vessel availability elsewhere began to restrain further gains.

Two gold awards for PCT S.A. at Environmental Awards 2026

PCT S.A. (Piraeus Container Terminal S.A.), a subsidiary of COSCO SHIPPING Ports, has received two Gold Awards at the Environmental Awards 2026, in recognition of its implementation of innovative environmental management practices and the development of technology-driven solutions that enhance the sustainability and resilience of port infrastructure.

Piraeus Port Authority (PPA S.A.) Main Sponsor of Ferry Shipping Summit 2026

With the participation of more than 200 delegates from several European countries, the Ferry Shipping Summit 2026 took place on 8–9 October 2026 in Athens, with Piraeus Port Authority (PPA S.A.) as the event’s main sponsor.

Hong Kong Global Maritime Trade Summit to return for third edition

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), in collaboration with the Transport and Logistics Bureau of the Government of Hong Kong (TLB) and the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA), will host the third edition of the Hong Kong Global Maritime Trade Summit on 16 November 2026.

Aegina: The Island That Breathes History, Sea and Faith — and Stays in the Heart

By Iakovos (Jack) Archontakis,

Senior Maritime Strategy Consultant & Chartering Executive

Aegina is an island that does not need to shout to win you over. It carries a quiet, effortless charm that follows you long after you leave.

The tanker market is therefore moving into a more supply-sensitive phase

Tanker fleet growth has accelerated considerably over the past two years, marking a clear shift from the unusually restrained supply environment that supported the market earlier in the cycle.