A five-week slump in dry cargo rates has left the Baltic Dry Index hanging agonizingly above the 1,000-point mark as the much-anticipated fourth quarter rally falters.

Both shipping specific and macro factors are proving headwinds in what is now threatening to be just the latest false start for bulker owners.

Tuesday saw rates in all major markets retreat to drag the BDI to just 1,003 points, while capesize bulkers are earning just $8,941 per day.

...