The Baltic Dry Index: a centuries old window into the economy

The World

Ever since 1744, The Baltic Dry Index has measured the strength of the global economy. By tracking shipments of cargo all over the world, it is an economic bellweather. Jeremy Penn, chief executive of the Baltic Exchange, joins John and Adaora from London to talk about the most important economic indicator you’ve never heard of.

Are you with The World?

The story you just read is available to read for free because thousands of listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. Every day, the reporters and producers at The World are hard at work bringing you human-centered news from across the globe. But we can’t do it without you: We need your support to ensure we can continue this work for another year.

When you make a gift of $10 or more a month, we’ll invite you to a virtual behind-the-scenes tour of our newsroom to thank you for being with The World.