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Baltic index stable as gains in smaller sized vessels counter weaker capesize

The Baltic Exchange's main sea freight index, tracking rates for ships carrying dry bulk commodities, were little altered on Monday as gains in smaller sized vessel sections countered weaker capesize rates.

* The total index, which consider rates for panamax, supramax and capesize shipping vessels, increased by a point to 1,730 points.

* The panamax index was up 23 points, or 1.3%, at 1,736 points.

* Average everyday profits for panamax vessels, which normally brings about 60,000-70,000 tons of coal or grain cargo, rose $204 to $15,623.

* Amongst smaller sized vessels, the supramax index firmed 8 points, or 0.6%, to 1,280 points.

* The capesize index edged down by 23 points to 2,529.

* Typical day-to-day incomes for capesize vessels, which generally transports 150,000-ton freights such as iron ore and coal, reduced by $194 to $20,970.

* Iron ore futures rates extended their increase to strike the greatest level in numerous weeks, strengthened by an apparent reduction in shipments and hopes that top consumer China will roll out more stimulus to prop up its economy.