The container-lines’ rate environment going into the year end continues to look bleak. Rates fell for a fourth straight month in November, with a 0.4% decline vs. the end of October on China-outbound (CCFI) routes. That brings the fourth quarter on average to a level that is 8% below the third quarter. That may prove a challenge to earnings for the sector, after a strong performance in the third quarter. European routes did worst in the month, with Mediterranean routes down 7%. U.S. East-coast rates fell 2.4%, possibly reflecting increased shipping through the Panama Canal which...