Spot VLCC Rate Jump as Uncertainty Increases – In the lead-up to Easter holidays, VLCC spot freight rates on the Middle East Gulf - China route experienced a notable firming trend, with rates rising sharply on April 17 to one-month highs.

Global Market Turmoil Sours Dry Bulk Sentiment – Following the recent tariff announcements by the U.S. administration and the resulting volatility in global markets, sentiment in the dry bulk sector has also been affected, leading to a softening in spot rates—most notably in the key Capesize segment.