The document discusses the impacts of the global economic slowdown and stimulus packages on shipping markets. It notes that:
1) Shipping markets have been hit by tightening trade finance and weaker economic growth. Central governments have enacted stimulus packages to varying effect, with China's package most integral due to its focus on infrastructure and steel consumption.
2) Trade finance restrictions wiped out an estimated 15-20% of dry bulk trade. The G20 summit proposed a $250 billion package to increase trade financing.
3) Stimulus packages aim to boost consumer spending but their effects on commodity and goods trade, and thus shipping demand, remain uncertain and will take time to materialize. Long-term resolution of trade finance issues