Thermal Coal Update

McCloskey reports that customs has increased controlling measures on Australian coal entering Chinese ports and this is having a dampening effect on demand as long waits are causing fears of steep demurrage penalties. This has resulted in increased demand for Indonesian and Russian coal into the Chinese market.

Australia

May FOB Newc Trades @ $97.45 in 25kt via globalCOAL (6000NAR)

June FOB Newc $97.75 Bid / $100.00 Offered 25kt (6000NAR)

April FOB Newc $62.00 Offered in 150kt (5500NAR High Ash)

Indonesia

South and East Kalimantan are both still experiencing heavy rains although conditions are said to have improved somewhat at North Kalimantan anchorages.

A May panamax of 4400NAR was alleged to have traded at $50.50, according to market reports.

March FOB was heard $39.50 bid / $40.50 Offered for a geared vessel

South Africa

Prices remained steady in the South African market with 6000NAR being valued around $77.60 for 6000NAR FOB Richards Bay. 5700NAR material was valued at API4 MINUS $7.50 or $76.95 for prompt cargos.

Cargos of 5500NAR material were valued at API4 MINUS $15.50 or $64.00 on a fixed price basis.

There was continued demand for 4800NAR material but this is in tight supply. Shipments for 4800NAR were valued at API4 MINUS $22.45 for spot cargos.