FX.co ★ Baltic Dry Index Up to 1-Week High

The Baltic Exchange's dry bulk freight index, which tracks rates for vessels transporting dry bulk commodities, rose for a second consecutive session on Friday, gaining about 2.4% to 2,722 points—its highest level since June 12—supported by strength in larger vessel classes.

The capesize index, reflecting earnings for ships that typically carry 150,000-ton cargoes such as iron ore and coal, advanced 5.3% to 4,149 points, its highest reading since April 10. The supramax index also inched higher, adding 0.2% to reach 1,718 points.

By contrast, the panamax index, which follows vessels that usually transport about 60,000 to 70,000 tons of coal or grain, fell around 2.5% to 2,096 points. On a weekly basis, the overall benchmark index slipped roughly 0.3%.