Key Takeaways:

Dry bulk markets are mixed with Capesize rates seeing solid gains while Panamax values slipped on a growing tonnage list. Supramax and Handysize vessels were stronger, though all sectors remain vulnerable to the seasonal dip in rates through Q4 and into Q1.  Falling water levels on the Mississippi River are starting to affect barge operations even as barge freight rates continue to decline. This sets up an interesting dynamic for the barge market as water levels are forecast to fall further while the U.S. grain harvest reaches its peak.   Tensions in the Persian Gulf are heating up and the Wall Street Journal reported that the “U.S. has told several Arab Gulf countries to be prepared for a short, intense...