According to Veson Nautical’s 2025 End-of-Year Market Report, shipowners should be aware of several key trends for 2026. First, the earnings strength seen in 2025, particularly in containers and tankers, may be challenged by a potential return to Suez transits, which could compress ton-mile demand. Owners should prepare for market volatility rather than expect a straightforward return to previous norms.
Additionally, 2026 will see the impact of newbuild deliveries, particularly in containers and LNG, leading to supply growth. Owners in oversupplied segments must reassess earnings forecasts in light of declining utilization and shorter charter durations. The gap between modern, fuel-efficient vessels and older ships will also widen, with regulatory pressures resulting in penalties for older tonnage, including reduced utilization and obsolescence.
Furthermore, the tanker market will continue to bifurcate, with crude tankers benefiting from sanctions and trade dislocation, while product tankers face challenges unless refining margins improve. Lastly, demolition activity is expected to rise, particularly for older vessels, as scrap prices approach breakeven levels. Owners should also be mindful of selective financing, with better terms for advanced vessels and tougher discussions for older ships.
