The Most Shocking Chart of 2014

I've talked a lot recently about growing exports of natural gas liquids from the U.S.

This is a space where staggering numbers have been thrown around of late. When it comes to financial metrics for some of the companies involved.

One of the biggest beneficiaries is expected to be shipping companies. Firms that operate gas carrier vessels--the kind that transport commodities like propane and butane to overseas buyers.

In December, I discussed how shipping analysts at DNB Markets saw big gains for shipping prices. Predicting that day rates for gas carriers could rise by over 700% during the next few years.

Now it appears those gains are coming sooner than expected.

The chart below tells the story. Over the last few weeks, day rates for very large gas carriers (VLGCs) have gone through the roof. Rising more than 300% in an incredibly short time.

Why the sudden leap? Analysts have attributed it a pick up in propane shipments. Following the ultra-cold winter in the U.S.--which saw a lot of propane supply used domestically, for heating.

But it appears that global flows of natural gas liquids are now strengthening. Leading to the shocking run up in VLGC rates shown above.

The incredible thing is, analysts like DNB markets think this could be just the beginning. The group has predicted VLGC rates could rise as high as $300,000/day. Which would be another 200% gain from today's lofty levels.

In short, this is a market that's going through massive change. Creating the potential for huge profits for shipping companies, vessel owners and other players in the space.

There are few commodities seeing these kinds of gains today. Making this one of the most exciting sectors to arise in natural resources for some time. It's also one that few market observers are aware of. Yet.

Here's to a great-looking chart,

By Dave Forest