Lines give 'explicit' support to container freight futures ahead of February launch

摘要

TRADING appetite for container freight futures faces its biggest test next month when six contracts are listed on the CME Group exchange amid claims that the world's largest container lines are finally on board with the concept. The container sector has been the last to embrace the use of freight derivatives to hedge against future shipping costs, even though such trading is well-established for dry bulk and tankers. The last attempt failed more than a decade ago. But with record volatility in box freight rates, conceptual support from container lines and a leading freight forwarder prepared to become a market-maker, London shipbroker Freight Investor Services says this time will be successful.