Earlier in the day the sale-and-purchase market was rife with renewed speculation that the commodities giant had firmed up a deal with New Times Shipbuilding.

The rumour followed a story published by a trade journal that claimed Cargill was behind an order for a pair of 180,000-dwt bulkers due for delivery in 2016.

In addition to identity of the shipyard and details about vessel specifications the article argued that the duo would be classed by the American Bureau of Shipping.

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