Baltic Dry Index Posts First Increase Since November as Iron Ore Shipments on the Rise

NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwire) -- 01/09/13 -- After struggling with a supply glut throughout much of 2012 shipping stocks have started the New Year on an impressive run as the Baltic Dry Index has begun to show signs of improvement. The Guggenheim Shipping ETF (SEA) has surged over 7 percent in the past week. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Shipping Industry and provides equity research on Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. (NYSE: NM) and Paragon Shipping Inc. (NYSE: PRGN).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

www.FiveStarEquities.com/NM

www.FiveStarEquities.com/PRGN

The Baltic Dry Index (BDI), a measure of costs to ship dry-bulk commodities such as grain, coal and iron ore, last week increased 0.3 percent, which was the first increase since November 28th. In 2012, the BDI posted its lowest average since 1986, according to the Baltic Exchange.

Rates for Capesize vessels, which ship iron ore and coal, have surged 2.2 percent to $4,973 a day. Iron ore shipments to China are expected to rise after recent reports have shown inventories of the commodity were at their lowest levels in two years.

Five Star Equities 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.FiveStarEquities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Navios Maritime Holdings is a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company focused on the transport and transshipment of drybulk commodities including iron ore, coal and grain. The company currently offers investors an annual dividend of $0.24 per share for a dividend yield of approximately 6.45 percent. Shares of Navios have gained over 12 percent in the past week.

Paragon Shipping is a Marshall Islands-based international shipping company specializing in the transportation of drybulk cargoes. The company's current fleet consists of twelve drybulk vessels with a total carrying capacity of 779,270 dwt. Shares of Paragon Shipping have soared nearly 70 percent in the past week.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: www.FiveStarEquities.com/disclaimer

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