Tanker strength, optimism in VLGC, and stability in car carriers

Tanker market optimism remains positive Tankers stayed strong this week, supported by firm earnings and healthy demand as supply adjustments from OPEC+ continue to shape trading activity. Sentiment remains positive, with improved utilization across key routes. LPG market maintains momentumLPG activity remained firm over the past week, with VLGC rates holding at elevated levels despite […]

Explaining engine retrofits

What is it, and why is this in focus? With the ongoing focus on a decarbonization of the shipping industry, a major part of the vessels that are constructed today, are built with retrofits, among other things, preparing the vessels to be able to run on other fuel types than conventional grey fuel. But what […]

Disruptions and growing demand drive tanker upside

Tanker strength due to growing oil demand and increased sailing distances The product tanker market is gaining momentum as autumn of 2025 begins. Strong global oil demand, firm freight rates, and longer voyage distances due to Red Sea disruptions are driving this recovery. Industry peers broadly expect a stronger end to the year, reversing last […]

Global events keep tanker and PCTC demand strong

Oil demand continues to support tanker earnings Oil markets remain influenced by OPEC+ policy and ongoing conflicts. Despite forecasts of oversupply, prices have held steady. For tankers, this translates into healthy activity, with longer voyages and firm chartering interest expected to support earnings into the winter season. Strong Asian LPG demand as ammonia gains tractionMiddle […]

OPEC+ output supports crude carrier utilization

Spot earnings exceed seasonal norms, signaling momentum into September The crude segment has entered a strong August, with spot earnings well above seasonal norms. Behind the momentum is a clear shift in fundamentals. OPEC+ has added around 2.5 million barrels per day over the past year, directly supporting crude carrier demand, while China continues to […]

Renewed US focus on shipping significant to global trade

US Maritime push underscores shipping’s importance President Trump’s recently announced maritime strategy underscores Washington’s intent to channel new investment into U.S. shipbuilding and shipping infrastructure. Branded as the One Big Beautiful Bill, the initiative signals a recognition at the highest political level of the sector’s strategic importance. Questions remain, however, over whether the current administration […]

Another strong week overall

Modest market shifts as Russia-Ukraine developments draw focus For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the prospect of a peace deal is being seriously discussed. Any resolution would have an impact on energy markets, trade routes, and global supply chains. Tanker market braced for Ukraine peace talksThe tanker market is performing well due […]

Trump’s meetings with Putin and Zelensky

Sanction policies could change if negotiations were to succeed Talks to end the war in Ukraine returned to focus this week as United States President Donald Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, followed by a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Oil prices eased on Tuesday as markets weighed the possibility […]

Ammonia Advances as Viable Zero-Carbon Fuel

Strong performance data and early bunkering projects drive confidence The transition to ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel is gaining traction, marked by the first green ammonia bunkering operation in China and plans for a new project in Singapore starting in 2027. Ammonia engine tests show 95% emission cutNew findings from the Global Maritime Forum’s Getting […]

Global Oil Fundamentals Strengthen as Demand Forecasts Rise

Firm oil demand outlook points to stable utilization across tankers  The tanker market is positioned to benefit from improving fundamentals in the oil sector. OPEC+ recently agreed to increase crude output, and forecasts point to stronger demand in the second half of the year as global inventories draw down. This week OPEC+ has raised its […]