Dry bulk shipping

The start of the US-Iran conflict and its impact on the maritime industry suggest that geopolitical concerns are here to stay. In this thought piece, we decode the initial impact of this conflict on maritime equities.

 

Escalating Middle East tensions risk disrupting nearly 30 million tonnes of dry bulk trade per month, equivalent to over 1,000 billion tonne-miles, or more than 7% of global dry bulk shipping demand.

 

The rapid growth of newbuilding yards across various countries reflects efforts to support national security, economic growth and strategic autonomy, while the development of ship repair yards globally will mainly serve the increasing retrofit activities.

 

According to Drewry AIS data, Capesize cargo loadings in January 2026 were the highest ever recorded for January, setting the tone for an unusually tight market.

 

Actionable market insight and advisory support at your fingertips

Our dry bulk shipping practice is highly respected in the industry and is regularly followed and referenced in both industry and mainstream media. The team is responsible for maintaining extensive information resources and conducting weekly, monthly and annual analysis on the sector and assessing the impact of macroeconomic as well as regulatory and environmental change on the sector.

In addition to detailed market analysis and rigorous forecasting, we offer market leading analysis of the dry bulk market, covering all the principle vessel categories, as well as appraisals of shipping finances, including pricing, operating costs, vessel values and investment returns. We challenge conventional wisdom through our deep understanding of the trade dynamics driving demand for different vessel types in all corners of the world.

Our consultants typically provide charterers in industrial, utilities and mining sectors with seafreight procurement advice, shipowners with market entry strategies and commercial and operational due diligence for investors and lenders. Meanwhile, our team of financial research specialists provides actionable insight on the leading tanker shipowners.

An elite and diverse group of industry stakeholders from shipowners, to charterers, port authorities, investors and financial intermediaries rely on our range of weekly, monthly and annual market research, sector expertise and commercial experience to help inform decisions, reduce costs and drive performance improvement.