Geopolitical tensions and their impact on global supply chains, the potential postponement of enforcement of environmental regulations, and the extension of vessel age limits are three massive topics that Greek owner Stamatis Tsantanis reckons will form much of the debate at next April’s Geneva Dry, the world’s premier commodities shipping conference.
Tsantanis, who heads up US-listed Greek capesize bulker specialists Seanergy Maritime Holdings and United Maritime, is one of more than 30 shipowners set to take the stage at the Hotel President Wilson next year when Geneva Dry reconvenes on April 28 and 29, a period of time he predicts will remain profitable for cape owners.
“Mineral demand remains robust, and the pace of newbuilding deliveries is slow, which should support a strong cape market into 2025,” he says, dismissing the naysayers about prospects being diminished by the return of Donald Trump to the White House.
“Trump’s tariffs are unlikely to have a direct major impact on the dry bulk market, but shifting trade routes could create opportunities,” Tsantanis says. As US soybean exports to China decrease, Brazil will likely continue to fill the gap, the Greek owner reckons. US coal exports should remain stable, he forecasts.
“Analysts project a 60% tariff on Chinese goods could slow China’s growth, but infrastructure investments in response may boost steel demand, supporting cape-dominated iron ore and bauxite trades. Regardless of the recent election outcome, I expect the dry bulk sector to adapt and benefit,” Tsantanis says.
Geneva Dry made its debut in May this year with around 600 delegates and organisers forced to issue a ‘Sold Out’ sign prior to the event. Working with the same hotel for the next edition, a new layout for the dry bulk showcase will allow for more delegates to attend next year. Interested parties are urged to book early to ensure a pass as well as the discounted hotel rooms reserved across six hotels for attendees.
As well as familiar sessions such as iron ore, coal, agri-commodities, minor bulks and dry decarbonisation, Geneva Dry 2025 features some new panels based on feedback from attendees to this year’s show. New sessions include a 50-minute special of forward freight agreements, a chartering spotlight, while digital efficiency drivers at port and then at sea will form the first two sessions on Day Two. Another highlight based on how much discussion there was on the topic at this year’s event will be a high-level discussion on electric vehicles and how they are supercharging dry bulk.
Companies attending include 2020 Bulkers, Anglo American, BPG Shipping Company, Cargill, Cetus Maritime, CTM, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime, Enesel, Eramet, Fednav, Fortescue, G2 Ocean, Heidelberg Materials Trading, Himalaya Shipping, Mandarin Shipping, Marfin Management, Metbulk Shipping, Norbulk Shipping, Nova Marine Carriers, Orion Reederei, Precious Shipping, Seanergy Maritime Holdings, Star Bulk, SwissMarine, Taylor Maritime Investments, Trafigura, United Maritime Corporation, Vale, Wah Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings, and Western Bulk.
The full Geneva Dry agenda can be accessed here.
Geneva Dry registration, at just $780, can be accessed here.
Special Geneva Dry hotel room rates can be found here.
Geneva Dry registration, at just $780, can be accessed here.
Special Geneva Dry hotel room rates can be found here.
