Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using Bench Energy services, including our website, news platform, analysis articles, and FreightTender platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

2. Description of Services

Bench Energy provides:

• Coal market news and analysis
• Expert articles on freight, logistics, and energy markets
• FreightTender platform for closed freight tenders
• Market intelligence and insights

3. User Accounts

For certain services, you may be required to create an account. You agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information
• Maintain the security of your account credentials
• Notify us immediately of any unauthorized access
• Be responsible for all activities under your account

4. Use of Services

You agree to use our services only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms. You agree not to:

• Violate any applicable laws or regulations
• Infringe on intellectual property rights
• Transmit harmful or malicious code
• Interfere with or disrupt our services
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems
• Use our services for any fraudulent or deceptive purpose

5. Intellectual Property

All content on Bench Energy platforms, including articles, analysis, graphics, logos, and software, is the property of Bench Energy or its licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not:

• Reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without permission
• Use our content for commercial purposes without authorization
• Remove copyright or proprietary notices

6. FreightTender Platform

For users of the FreightTender platform:

• You are responsible for the accuracy of tender and offer information
• All submissions are final and cannot be modified after submission
• You agree to maintain confidentiality of tender information
• Bench Energy is not responsible for the outcome of tender awards
• You must comply with all applicable trade and shipping regulations

7. Disclaimer of Warranties

Our services are provided "as is" and "as available" without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of information provided. Market data and analysis are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment or trading advice.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Bench Energy shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from your use of our services.

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Bench Energy, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising from your use of our services or violation of these Terms.

10. Termination

We may terminate or suspend your access to our services immediately, without prior notice, for any reason, including:

• Violation of these Terms of Service
• Fraudulent or illegal activity
• Non-payment of fees, if we introduce fees and notify you
• At our sole discretion

11. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms of Service at any time. We will notify users of material changes via email or platform notification. Your continued use of our services after such changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

12. Governing Law

These Terms of Service shall be governed by and construed in accordance with applicable laws, without regard to conflict of law principles.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact: