2025-10-16 11:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the average market spot rates for Handysize and Supramax vessels were approximately $11,600 and $14,300 net per day, reflecting a decrease of 1% and an increase of 4% respectively compared to the same period in 2024 [5] - The average TCE earnings for Handysize and Supramax vessels were $11,680 and $13,410, representing a year-on-year decrease of 15% for Handysize and an increase of 10% for Supramax [8] - The company has utilized approximately $26 million of its announced $40 million share buyback program, completing about 65% of the targeted buyback [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core business generated average TCE earnings of $11,680 for Handysize and $13,410 for Supramax in Q3 2025, with performance against market indices showing a $90 per day outperformance for Handysize but a $100 per day underperformance for Supramax [8][9] - Operating activities generated a daily average margin of $750 over 6,830 operating days in Q3 [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global mined bulk loadings rose 4% year-on-year, driven by bauxite, fertilizers, and mined ores, while grain loadings decreased by 9% [5][6] - Coal earnings reduced by 6% year-on-year due to weaker demand from major markets, with China’s coal imports falling by 15% [7] - The combined global fleet of Handysize and Supramax vessels is estimated to grow by 4.3% in 2025, with newbuilding deliveries accounting for 4.4% of this growth [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to strategically renew and grow its fleet, maintaining fixed price purchase options on 13 long-term chartered vessels and planning to take delivery of newbuildings in 2026 [15] - The focus remains on expanding growth optionality while managing fleet renewal in a disciplined manner [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the dry bulk market, anticipating steady minor bulk demand growth and potential supply disruptions that could support tighter freight market conditions [21] - The company is prepared for ongoing macroeconomic and industry uncertainties, leveraging its financial strength and agile business model to navigate challenges [21] Other Important Information - The company has taken proactive steps to comply with new port tariffs, including transferring vessels to Singapore ownership to mitigate potential impacts [16][18] - The company does not believe it is subject to special tariffs under U.S. and Chinese regulations, as it maintains a diverse shareholder base [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on congestion and disruptions related to port tariffs? - Management noted that while there are concerns about congestion, the market has improved since summer, and strategic leadership has shifted to Singapore to align with regulatory definitions [28][29] Question: What is the expectation from the ongoing IMO meeting regarding supply dynamics? - Management expressed hope for regulations on decarbonization, which could positively impact the business and support new building initiatives [33] Question: How is the company managing disruptions from new port fees? - Management acknowledged that disruptions create inefficiencies, which could positively impact the market in the short term, while emphasizing the need for clarity on regulations [39][84] Question: What is the outlook for the spot market and outperformance in Q4? - Management indicated a positive outlook for the market, driven by demand growth and seasonal factors, while acknowledging the typical lag in performance during rising markets [56][58] Question: What are the CapEx plans and new building market expectations? - Management outlined a cautious approach to CapEx, focusing on share buybacks and monitoring the secondhand market, while noting that newbuilding orders remain low due to market uncertainties [72][76]