In the dry bulk shipping sector, significant vessel ownership developments and freight market shifts occurred between December 12-19, 2025. Key events included Western Bulk's strategic acquisition and infrastructure progress at major terminals against a backdrop of capesize strength but softening smaller vessel segments.
Western Bulk Acquires Stake in Eco Kamsarmax
Oslo-based dry bulk operator Western Bulk re-entered ship ownership by acquiring a minority stake in the 2020-built Kamsarmax bulk carrier CSSC Shi Jia Zhuang. The vessel, constructed in China and recently completing its five-year special survey, will be renamed Western Egda. Western Bulk partnered with A/S J. Ludwig Mowinckels Rederi, NRP Asset Management-managed Premium Maritime Fund 2024, and Pactum for the transaction.
This move marks Western Bulks return to owning bulk carriers, leveraging the eco-design features of the Kamsarmax to align with tightening environmental regulations and operational efficiencies in the dry bulk trade.
Capesize Gains Amid Segment Divergence
The global freight market exhibited a clear split mid-December, with capesize dry bulk vessels extending gains driven by iron ore flows and steady construction cargoes. Brokers noted firmer sentiment in Atlantic and Pacific basins, with forward freight agreements indicating gradual rate improvements into 2025 and 2026.
Contrarily, panamax, supramax and handysize segments saw lower demand and marginal rate reductions. On December 17, the Baltic Dry Index inched down slightly to 2121 points - down 83 from prior session but remaining elevated month over month amid volatility.
Analysts attributed capesize momentum to balanced supply-demand dynamics, while smaller segments experienced seasonal pressures and port congestion. Tanker markets outshone other segments due to geopolitical factors; however, concerns regarding fleet growth loomed with nearly 600 newbuilds set for 2026.
ABP Breaks Ground on Humber Development
On December 16th, Associated British Ports (ABP) initiated construction on an ambitious industrial and logistics scheme at the Humber to enhance dry bulk capacity while supporting regional trade growth. The aim is to boost capacity while simultaneously expanding regional trade growth.
This development underscores ongoing investments in UK port infrastructure to handle increasing volumes of steel, aggregates, and other bulk commodities, positioning the Humber as a key European hub.
Rock Machinery Expansion Project by Superior Technologies
On December 17th, Rock Machinery announced their expanded partnership with Superior Industries by becoming a full-line dealer for conveying equipment, providing enhanced dry bulk handling capabilities in rail and terminal operations.
This partnership coincides with other terminal expansion efforts, such as Indiana River & Rail Terminal's recent increase in capacity for barge steel shipments at their Indiana terminal, signaling high demand for handling equipment.
Broader Market Context
Dry bulk newbuilding contracting hit a five-year low in 2025, with only 281 ships ordered by early December, reducing the orderbook to 11
These events demonstrate a sector navigating volatility, with ownership transfers and infrastructure gains providing stability amid freight rate fluctuations and anticipated fleet expansion pressures.