Rates for capesize bulkers on Monday fell further into negative territory, while those for the sector's other asset classes maintained slow but steady improvement begun almost two weeks ago.

The Baltic Exchange Capesize Index slipped to -239 points from -226 Friday, ending a modest upward trend since 14 February when rates bottomed out at -294.

Its weighted time charter average of five routes likewise fell, dropping to $2,693 per day from $2,787 per day.