Platts to launch two dry bulk Panamax/Kamsarmax Atlantic period freight assessments Aug. 1

Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, will launch two weekly Atlantic period Time Charter Equivalent, or TCE, assessments, effective Aug. 1, 2025.

These will include a short-term assessment for the rental of a vessel for a duration of four to six months and a long-term assessment for 12 to 15 months. By launching these assessments, Platts aims to provide more comprehensive insights into the underlying factors driving the market beyond the spot curve.

Platts initially proposed the above assessments on June 16 in a subscriber note here .

A short-term TCE assessment reflects a rental agreement for a vessel lasting between four to six months, while a long-term TCE assessment reflects a duration of 12 to 15 months.

Short-term rates capture immediate supply-demand dynamics, while long-term rates reflect charterers' confidence or caution regarding market trends, commodity flows, and geopolitical risks. Additionally, period rates can signal shifts in risk appetite; a rise in long-term interest may suggest concerns about future rate volatility, while discounted long-term deals from owners could indicate a bearish outlook for the market.

The specifications for both the assessments will be:

The proposed assessments are:

These assessments will follow the London publishing schedule and be published in Platts Dry Freight Wire.

Please send all comments or questions to dryfreight@spglobal.com and pricegroup@platts.com.

For written comments, please provide a clear indication if comments are not intended for publication by Platts for public viewing.

Platts will consider all comments received and will make comments not marked as confidential available upon request.