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With Geneva Dry 2026 on the horizon, market players are weighing how the dry bulk sector could look by late April against a backdrop of geopolitical tension, regulatory shifts and continued freight volatility.
One of the companies closely involved in freight and commodity risk management is the European Energy Exchange (EEX), which operates global markets for energy and commodity products, including freight derivatives used by shipping players to hedge exposure.
Peter Blogg, head of global commodities at EEX, says forecasting even a few months ahead has become increasingly difficult.
“In the current rapidly changing geopolitical environment, it might be hard to predict what the world will look like, even by April. We’ve seen from previous incidents that the dry freight industry can be significantly affected by sudden unexpected events. I do believe, however, that the industry is better prepared than ever before to face these uncertainties, especially with the growing range of risk management tools available to the market.”
The industry is better prepared than ever before to face uncertainties
That focus on managing uncertainty is likely to carry through to discussions both on stage and in the corridors during Geneva Dry.
“I expect a lot of discussions around risk management for the freight community, especially due to recent volatility,” Blogg says, pointing to freight swings that have once again tested owners, charterers and traders alike.
He adds that the debate will likely extend to technology and structural change in the sector.
“This would also link up with the other hot topic of AI and digitalisation and how this affects our markets; how cost savings and efficiencies could be achieved through modern solutions.”
Regulation is also expected to feature prominently. “In addition, I’d also expect continued discussions about decarbonisation and the recent debates about the EU ETS or CBAM regulations,” he says.
A new session on commercial risk management has been added to this year’s programme — something Blogg views as well-timed given the current climate.
“This is more timely than ever as we see changes on the world stage almost on a daily basis,” he says.
“The importance of risk management and already available hedging tools would be an important aspect to discuss, in addition to what we could learn from other markets, such as the wider energy and commodity markets.”
While derivatives, hedging and compliance frameworks will dominate much of the formal agenda, Blogg says the real value of Geneva Dry remains the in-person exchange.
“Although we live in a digital world, it’s always great to meet industry peers, partners, customers and friends in person,” he says.
“I’m looking forward to the personal connection and interesting discussions, as well as a glass or two after the main panel sessions,” Blogg concludes.
Held at the Hotel President Wilson on the shore of Lake Geneva on April 28 and 29, the world’s premier commodities shipping conference is readying for its most high calibre gathering to date with organisers anticipating up to 900 delegate signups.
The two-day event now boasts 51 sponsors, with more than 190 companies confirmed attending.
The full Geneva Dry agenda can be accessed here.
Geneva Dry registration, at just $920, can be accessed here.
Special Geneva Dry hotel room rates can be found here.