New Orders Container
Independent shipowners continue to hold back on orders despite the improved market situation. The risk[ds_preview] in the choice of fuel system seems too big as it is unclear how costly alternative systems can be amortised through charter revenues. Orders in recent weeks have come mainly from liners (Hapag-Lloyd, 6 x 23,500TEU), players with strong financial backgrounds in cooperation with liners (Shoei Kisen/ONE, 6 x 24,000TEU) or Asian feeder carriers (SITC, 10 x 2,500TEU or TCCL, 3 x 1,100TEU).
Secondhand Sales
The second-hand carrousel continues to spin briskly with many sales – too many to list here. Given the continued positive rate levels in several size segments and the accompanying price increases, observers expect further sales by banks and lenders, not least in Germany.
Demolition Sales
While global market participants discuss the effects of Chinas move to lift import bans for scrap steel, it seems not to be the time of significant container ship demolition activities. With »Span Asia 27« and »Tian Rong«, two vessels have been sold for scrap, said to be the first since October.
