Research Reports

Geopolitical tensions elevate tanker rates and asset values, evidenced by recent high-value sales; Capesize activity shows resilience with a notable USD 37.5 million transaction, amid a generally subdued dry bulk market.

Geopolitical tensions have led to a halt in tanker transactions amid U.S.-Iran escalations, while the dry bulk market shows resilience with asset values supported by strong fundamentals and positive freight earnings.

The newbuilding sector experiences a slight cooling, with Hengli leading the charge by ordering 207 ships in H1 2026 amid cautious tanker market activity and stable trends in dry bulk asset values.

The crude orderbook reaches 28 per cent of the fleet, signaling potential long-term downturn risks with VLCCs and Suezmaxes above historical averages, while second-hand bulker activity rises amid muted tanker transactions due to Strait of Hormuz uncertainties.

The recent US-Iran ceasefire optimistically impacts maritime trade, while tanker transactions remain sparse despite robust dry bulk demand, exemplified by rising Kamsarmax values, including USD 32.8 million for the MV 'MONT BLANC HAWK'.

Crude tanker ordering reached a historic peak at 57.9 Mn DWT so far in 2026, constituting 56 per cent of total orders, amid concerns of fleet overcapacity, while dry bulk market sentiment remains strong with significant transactions reported.

Posidonia 2026 coincided with strong tanker market sentiment with VLCC earnings averaging USD 102,813/day so far this year. Newbuilding prices remain stable amid geopolitical uncertainties, suggesting a positive outlook for ongoing transactions.

As Posidonia approaches, tanker markets show resilience with significant LR2 sales totaling USD 285.8 million, while oil prices decline sharply, indicating potential increases in shipping activity amidst ongoing geopolitical tension.

Tanker Sale & Purchase activity slows as Posidonia approaches, with a notable VLCC sale at USD 40–41 million, while robust demand persists in the newbuilding segment amid stabilized dry bulk values despite a softening BDI.

The newbuilding and secondhand vessel markets show resilience amid US-China tensions, with MR prices stabilising and a sustained interest in dry bulk.

Newbuilding activity quiets amid holiday breaks, with MR tankers leading demand at strong margins. Strategic Chinese buyers are influencing market dynamics, ensuring steady demand despite broader fluctuations.

Tanker prices remain resilient amid cautious market conditions with significant sales, while newbuilding demand surges as inflationary pressures steer investors towards shipping assets.