The outlook for the global shipping industry remains negative, according to Fitch Ratings, as the rating agency doesn’t expect a material improvement in market fundamentals in 2018 due to lingering overcapacity.
As explained, both container and bulk markets show signs of a revival, but the longevity of this trend remains uncertain due to limited adherence to capacity discipline in the sector. Improving market sentiment and a focus on scale and vessel size have stimulated new orders. The supply and demand dynamics are likely to support container, bulk and LNG rates, but tanker rates could remain under pressure.
