蜜桃TV

According to European shipbrokers, South Korea鈥檚 Sinokor has fixed 2022-built, scrubber-fitted VLCCs Caspar and Degas on year-long charters at US$56,000 per day each. Both vessels, built by South Korea鈥檚 HD Hyundai, are owned by George Economou-led TMS Tankers.

In comparison, MB Shipbrokers reports a modern eco-design VLCC is currently earning around US$49,500 per day on a 12-month charter. Meanwhile, BRS Shipbrokers鈥� latest weekly update estimates average daily earnings for eco+scrubber-fitted VLCCs at US$53,000.

TMS Tankers acquired聽Caspar and Degas from fellow Greek owner Athenian Sea Carriers in 2022, through a resale transaction.

Market conditions

Riviera recently reported聽a significant rise in VLCC spot rates, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and concerns over a potential closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

However, as the situation eased, so did market sentiment. 鈥淒espite initial fears of supply disruptions, the ceasefire led to a rapid unwinding of the geopolitical risk premium in oil prices,鈥� MB Shipbrokers stated in a 27 June briefing. 鈥淎nalysts noted the market鈥檚 reaction suggests limited expectations of prolonged supply issues stemming from the conflict,鈥� the report added.

As of 27 June, average spot rates for eco-design VLCCs had declined to US$39,843 per day, a drop of US$8,802 from the previous week, according to MB Shipbrokers.

Despite the modest rate correction, sources told Riviera that sentiment in the VLCC segment remains firm, with charterers continuing to pursue term contracts 鈥� particularly for eco-design tonnage 鈥� amid sustained demand

Chinese imports hit record levels

In a related development, Chinese imports of Iranian oil surged to over 1.8M barrels per day in June, marking a record high, according to MB Shipbrokers.

鈥淭his increase was driven by independent refineries, known as 鈥榯eapots,鈥� capitalising on discounted Iranian crude,鈥� analysts noted. 鈥淭he rise in shipments occurred despite the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, indicating robust demand and the effectiveness of alternative supply routes.鈥�