Baltic Exchange joins industry leaders at SGX Commodities Forum in London to discuss the future of freight markets

On 29 September, Baltic Exchange CEO Mark Jackson attended the SGX Commodities Forum in London, where he joined industry leaders in a discussion about the future of freight markets. The panel, moderated by Holly Birkett of TradeWinds, included John Banaszkiewicz of Freight Investor Services, Bilal Muftuoglu of Howe Robinson Partners, and Alexis Ellender of Kpler.

The conversation centered on the challenges faced by freight markets due to geopolitical disruption, evolving trade routes, and complex supply chains. Jackson and his fellow panelists emphasized the importance of safeguarding landed cargo margins in a market characterized by volatility. They also explored the expanding role of freight derivatives in risk management.

The discussion went beyond the conventional view of freight as merely a cost of transporting goods. Instead, the panelists highlighted how freight is increasingly recognized as a strategic trading and risk management tool. The broader forum attracted a large audience, indicating significant market interest in the issues and prospects of commodity markets.

Representatives from various sectors, including traders, producers, consumers, brokers, analysts, investors, and risk managers, gathered to discuss the forces reshaping global commodity markets. Topics ranged from geopolitical fragmentation and shifting trade flows to developments in dry bulk freight, changing demand for iron ore and steel, decarbonisation, and the evolving coking coal market.

The event concluded with a networking reception, providing Baltic Exchange an opportunity to engage with market participants and industry partners in London. This allowed for continued dialogue on the outlook for global commodities and freight.