Decline in post-panamax values
According to Vesselsvalue, a maritime market intelligence provider, container values and earnings have hit their lowest levels since early 2021, primarily due to weakened market sentiment and a surge in newbuildings entering the market.
Container values for various vessel types and ages have declined significantly, with 20-year-old post-panamax vessels experiencing an 18.5% drop. This decline is exacerbated by slowing demand, recessionary fears, and higher consumer prices.
Time-charter rates have fallen to their lowest levels since January 2021, with one-year rates for post-panamax vessels down by approximately 12% month-on-month.
The recent fixture of a 17-year-old vessel below the yearly average signals a further softening in charter rates and values. Despite values remaining above average, the influx of new vessels may lead to further declines. (pb)