A predictive model of the freight rate of the international market in Capesize dry bulk carriers

摘要

This study examines the considerable fluctuations of the world's dry bulk shipping market from November 1995 to September 2008. The major objective is to provide a forecasting model for the freight rate in relation to the second-hand ship price. The results indicate an acceptable level of prediction according to Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), with a value no more than 20%. It is anticipated that this research will prove germane to major stakeholders, including owners, charters, investors and bankers, by forecasting the freight rate and thereby expediting the decision-making process.