Since the End of 2011 the Volatile Baltic Dry Index Has Fallen From North of 1700 to the Low 700 Range

  After a strong first quarter the shipping stocks have struggled as oversupply and global economic uncertainties continue to plague the industry. The world's oldest shipping company, Stephenson Clarke Shipping Ltd., recently sold its last vessel and went into liquidation. The Guggenheim Shipping ETF (SEA) has fallen nearly 15 percent over the last 6 months. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Shipping Industry and provides equity research on Excel Maritime Carriers Ltd. (NYSE: EXM) and Diana Shipping Inc. (NYSE: DSX).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

www.ParagonReport.com/EXM

www.ParagonReport.com/DSX

The Baltic Dry Index, a measure of costs to ship dry-bulk commodities such as grain, coal and iron ore, last week saw its first gain since July 9th. The shipping index since early July has dropped from roughly 1,100 to the current levels in the low 700 range. Last week's rise snapped a 31 consecutive session losing streak. The index ended 2011 above 1,700.

"Considering the downwards pressure currently in Chinese steel prices, we do not expect a significant boost to rates in the near term," Omar M. Nokta and Damien Fortune, Dahlman Rose strategists, wrote in a note to clients.

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Shipping Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Excel is an owner and operator of dry bulk carriers and a provider of worldwide seaborne transportation services for dry bulk cargoes, such as iron ore, coal and grains, as well as bauxite, fertilizers and steel products. Excel reported voyage revenues for the second quarter of 2012 amounting to $63.1 million compared to $92.0 million for the same period in 2011, a decrease of approximately 31.4 percent.

Diana Shipping Inc. is a leading global provider of shipping transportation services through the ownership and operation of dry bulk vessels. The company's vessels are employed primarily on medium to long-term time charters and transport a range of dry bulk cargoes. The company recently reported it has entered into a time charter contract with Bunge.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine