Ocean freight was largely stable in April, but to rise slightly in May

Published: May 16, 2023 13:30
Source: SMM
SHANGHAI, May 16 (SMM) - In April 2023, ocean freight was largely stable. The Baltic Dry Index (BDI) stood at 1,576 points at the end of April, up 164 points from the beginning of the month, but still at a historically low level.

 SHANGHAI, May 16 (SMM) - In April 2023, ocean freight was largely stable. The Baltic Dry Index (BDI) stood at 1,576 points at the end of April, up 164 points from the beginning of the month, but still at a historically low level.

Global shipping demand was gradually recovering in early May, and ocean freight rose slightly due to rising fuel costs. It is expected that nickel ore shipments will increase in May, and ocean freight may rise slightly.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or to learn more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn
For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn
Related News
Vale Maintained Strong Production and Sales Momentum in Q1
11 hours ago
Vale Maintained Strong Production and Sales Momentum in Q1
Read More
Vale Maintained Strong Production and Sales Momentum in Q1
Vale Maintained Strong Production and Sales Momentum in Q1
11 hours ago
SHFE Approved Registration of "PTENICO" Brand Refined Nickel for Nickel Futures Delivery
13 hours ago
SHFE Approved Registration of "PTENICO" Brand Refined Nickel for Nickel Futures Delivery
Read More
SHFE Approved Registration of "PTENICO" Brand Refined Nickel for Nickel Futures Delivery
SHFE Approved Registration of "PTENICO" Brand Refined Nickel for Nickel Futures Delivery
On April 20, the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) issued an announcement approving the registration of "PTENICO" brand (Eternal) refined nickel (electrodeposition process, Ni99.96) produced by PT ETERNAL NICKEL INDUSTRY, with a registered capacity of 50,000 mt. The product has been eligible for physical delivery against SHFE nickel futures contracts since the date of the announcement. The product originates from North Maluku Province, Indonesia.
13 hours ago
[SMM Stainless Steel Flash] According to CREA, Stainless Steel Still Leads Indonesia's Nickel Demand
13 hours ago
[SMM Stainless Steel Flash] According to CREA, Stainless Steel Still Leads Indonesia's Nickel Demand
Read More
[SMM Stainless Steel Flash] According to CREA, Stainless Steel Still Leads Indonesia's Nickel Demand
[SMM Stainless Steel Flash] According to CREA, Stainless Steel Still Leads Indonesia's Nickel Demand
According to CREA report, stainless steel remains the dominant end-use for Indonesia's nickel despite ongoing "green nickel" marketing efforts. In 2025, 83% of nickel output will go to stainless steel versus 17% for EV batteries; by 2030, stainless steel is still projected to account for 51% of supply against 18% for batteries. Demand from the battery sector faces uncertainty as more EVs shift to nickel-free technologies. Indonesia, which produces over half of global refined nickel, faces mounting pressure from stricter environmental regulations and carbon taxes over its coal-powered production, along with broader supply chain risks. Separately, BMI (a Fitch Solutions company) raised its 2026 nickel price forecast to US$16,600/ton, citing policy uncertainty and rising supply risks.
13 hours ago
Ocean freight was largely stable in April, but to rise slightly in May - Shanghai Metals Market (SMM)