Export-led growth sustains utilisation despite seasonal headwinds

Chinese vehicle exports remain the core demand driver PCTC markets were supported throughout January by continued strength in Chinese vehicle exports, which remain the single most important structural driver for global car carrier demand. China’s exports of cars and vans increased by more than 20% year on year in 2025, driven primarily by rapid growth […]

Earnings supported by tight supply, longer routes and structural trade growth

Atlantic tightness drives strong January performance VLGC markets delivered a strong performance through most of January, with spot earnings reaching their highest levels since late summer. Rates were primarily supported by tight tonnage availability in the Atlantic Basin, where active Middle East and US Gulf fixing reduced prompt supply. Canal constraints continue to support tonne-milesPersistently […]

Strong earnings supported by geopolitics, compliance shifts and high utilisation

Earnings remain elevated despite short-term volatility Crude tanker markets remained structurally strong throughout January, despite periods of short-term volatility. While earnings softened briefly following late-2025 highs, average rates remained well above historical levels, supported by high global production, elevated seaborne volumes and ongoing inefficiencies linked to sanctions and trade fragmentation. The ClarkSea Index fluctuated during […]