Advertise on podcast: The Shipbrokers Podcast

Seven weeks before the US-China maritime trade truce expires, American shipbuilding policy is at a crossroads. Richard Matthews sits down with Ryan Lynch, Managing Partner of Maritime Opportunity Investment Corp, to ask what comes after Section 301 and whether the rules that stunned shipping last year are about to do it again. Lynch's answer: everyone was watching the wrong statute. The port fees that made headlines were never the full story. The real leverage sits in a dormant provision a president could trigger without Congress at all. Tax architecture that treats ships like floating real estate. A strategic fleet that may run into constitutional limits. Why US shipyard economics come down to throughput, not labour costs. Listen for the full picture and why Lynch thinks the next twelve months matter more than the last twelve. 0:26 Welcome & Introduction 2:05 US Maritime Capability & Shipbuilding 5:39 Re-industrialization & Strategic Commercial Fleet 10:10 Enforcement & Implementation Challenges 16:09 Section 301 Status & Trade Truce 19:26 Ships for America Act & NDAA 21:54 Act Components & Shipper Implications 24:57 Discriminating Duty on Non-US Vessels 26:49 Ships Act Outlook & Executive Pathways 30:13 Capital Architecture & Tax Barriers 34:07 Nuclear Propulsion & Technology Hurdles 35:18 Investment Appetite, Korean FDI & Supply Chain 38:57 Jones Act Waivers & Domestic Concerns 40:24 Future Orders & Fleet Composition 42:43 Tax Reform: Ships as Floating Real Estate 46:04 Maritime OIC: Advisory & Investment Approach

Six months into the Middle East war, oil has barely moved. Richard Matthews asks Vortexa Chief Economist David Wech the obvious question: why so calm and how long can it last? Wech's answer is that everyone has been watching the wrong chokepoint. Hormuz was never the real story, and the numbers underneath the headline price look very different from the numbers on the screen. Diesel, inventories, and a European winter he's genuinely worried about. Listen for the full picture, including why he thinks cheap oil could still be closer than anyone expects. 0:23  Welcome & Guest Introduction 1:59  Hormuz Flows & the VLCC Shuttle Strategy 5:10  US Export Decline 10:49  China's Refining Comeback & Crude Demand 14:18  Global Inventory Levels 17:06  Diesel Shortage & Product Market Stress 19:07  Refining Capacity Shifts 22:47  Winter Energy Supply Outlook 24:40  Structural Shift & China's Resilience Model 28:35  Macro Impact & Producer Perspective 30:58  Tanker Resilience & Shipping Market Adaptability 33:15  Long-Term Oil Demand & Price Outlook

In one of the most turbulent weeks in recent maritime history, Richard Matthews sits down with Nick Maddalena, Managing Director of Ambrey Global Specialty, and Robert Peters, Director of Risk Analytics at Ambrey, to unpack an unprecedented convergence of maritime threats. With tankers struck in the Middle East, a new Houthi maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, Somali pirates hijacking vessels, and ongoing attacks in the Black Sea the experts at Ambrey break down what's driving the crisis and what it means for commercial shipping. 00:49 Setting the Scene: An Unprecedented Week 03:02 The Maritime Risk Landscape Today 04:05 The Houthi Maritime Blockade 12:03 The Strait of Hormuz & the Oman Corridor 18:10 The Black Sea: Escalation & Changing Targets 23:36 Affiliation Risk & Data Accuracy 27:25 Somali Piracy: Back but Not Changed 43:01 Outlook: Permanent Threats & the Future of Maritime Risk

Host Richard Matthews is joined by Lindsay Hunting (Head of Tanker Projects), Gerrit Stricker (Head of LNG), Sen Raviraj (Lead LPG Analyst) and Dan Gifford (Head of Newbuildings) to review a turbulent first half of 2026. From geopolitical disruption and freight market swings to changing trade flows and record vessel ordering, the panel explores the key forces shaping shipping markets and the outlook for the months ahead. 00:31 2026 Chaos Overview 01:54 Tanker Talk Begins 04:18 Clean vs Dirty Impact 06:06 Contango and China 08:40 Post War Tanker Outlook 10:18 LNG Market Rewiring 14:42 LPG Freight and Product 22:48 Newbuild Ordering Boom 28:40 Key Takeaways and Close

Host Richard Matthews speaks with journalist Sean Matthews on the risk of a “no war, no peace” standoff in the Strait of Hormuz, as US and Iranian tensions simmer below open conflict. They unpack how Gulf states are navigating the pressure, from Qatar’s cautious diplomacy to the UAE’s exposed trade position and Saudi Arabia’s strategic balancing act, alongside rising regional rivalries, proxy conflicts, and a shifting post-American order. About Sean Matthews Covering a wide swath of the Middle East and southeastern Europe, Sean is a journalist and a correspondent with Middle East Eye covering regional politics and security. He has previously written for The Economist, Al Monitor and Al Jazeera English, reporting across Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Greece.  He is also the author of The New Byzantines: The Rise of Greece and Return of the Near East, a bold reappraisal of Greece's place in the wider Middle East, available now from all major retailers: https://amzn.eu/d/0i2n6nMr  00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:55 Iran War Stalemate in Hormuz 05:21 Gulf States Winners and Losers 12:18 Pipelines and Bypassing Hormuz 14:42 Saudi-UAE Rift and Yemen Houthis 23:35 Sudan Power Struggle 24:41 Gulf Rivalry in Sudan 27:15 Why Saudis and UAE Clash 29:03 Turkey Fills the Vacuum 34:04 Greece and the New Byzantines

Ed Romer-Lee, Lindsay Hunting and Richard Matthews of EA Gibson break down the unfolding Middle East crisis and the extraordinary strain it is placing on global tanker and energy markets, from disrupted oil flows and regional supply shortages to extreme freight volatility and rapidly shifting trade routes. They explore how multiple pressures are colliding at once, including Red Sea disruption, Panama delays and the closure of key chokepoints, creating a level of dislocation few in the industry have seen before. Beyond the immediate crisis, the conversation turns to what may be being overlooked. As attention remains fixed on the Middle East, they examine wider geopolitical risks, structural shifts in energy supply, and the longer-term consequences for freight markets, energy security and investment. With uncertainty still high, the episode considers not just where the market stands today, but what could shape its next phase. 00:25 Middle East Focus 01:07 Unprecedented Volatility 02:33 Supply Shock Explained 04:24 Hormuz Closure Reality 05:23 Why Markets Misprice 10:11 Crude Freight Shifts 13:48 Clean Market Resilience 19:01 Strategic Reserves Risks 20:41 Client Mood And Positioning 24:59 Reopening And Recovery 28:35 Energy Transition Debate 35:23 Other Geopolitical Wildcards 38:29 War End Predictions

Richard Matthews speaks with Engebret Dahm, CEO of Klaveness Combination Carriers, about the rise, fall, and resurgence of tanker/dry-bulk “two-in-one” vessels. Once prominent between the 1970s and 1990s, these ships declined due to stricter safety and vetting standards following major incidents, cargo history limitations, higher complexity and capital costs, and poor economics in an era of low fuel prices. Dahm outlines Klaveness’ journey and current fleet - 17 vessels, expanding to 19 across two core segments: CABU/Carbo ships, which transport liquid caustic soda in one direction and dry bulk cargoes on the return leg (notably Australia and Brazil), and CLEANBU designs, carrying clean petroleum products into the Americas before backhauling grains, sugar, and vegetable oils. The conversation also covers operational complexities such as cargo switching and tank cleaning, early resistance from oil majors, and the broader, more diversified customer base seen today. Dahm highlights the high barriers to entry—from vessel design to crew expertise and systems—as well as the role of efficiency in decarbonisation, the limitations of current CII metrics, ongoing retrofit investments, alternative fuel flexibility, and the value of extending asset life through strong, customer-backed contracts. 00:53 What Is a Combination Carrier 01:53 Heyday and Decline 04:33 KCC Fleet and Origins 07:29 Trading Routes and Optimization 09:29 Operational Challenges and Vetting 14:49 Barriers to Entry and Know How 17:46 Efficiency and Decarbonization Edge 24:51 Alternative Fuels and Retrofits 30:00 Life Extension at 25 Years 35:16 Newbuild Plans and Market Timing

Richard Matthews interviews Dan Gifford on the newbuildings market, which remains very strong—especially tankers—with a major VLCC and Suezmax ordering wave (nearly 40 VLCCs ordered so far this year and more in the pipeline).  They explain that newbuild prices are being supported by historically high modern secondhand values, limited ships for sale, tight shipyard capacity (Korean yards booked up to 3.5 years forward), and ongoing equipment bottlenecks such as main engines. Dan expects prices to stay firm and sees “second-wave” demand from owners who delayed ordering but now face fleet renewal needs, with delivery slots stretching into 2028–2029.  They discuss activity in other sectors (Newcastlemax bulker orders due to an overaged fleet; containers cooling; LNG interest returning) and note that many owners sell ships at high prices and reinvest into newbuilds despite the speculative nature of returns. The episode also covers yard capacity expansions, the impact of US policy proposals and earlier USTR concerns on a shift toward Korean yards, and the reduced focus on decarbonization/dual-fuel ordering due to high premiums.  00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:24 Meet Dan Gifford 00:35 VLCC Ordering Surge 02:07 Newbuild Prices Explained 04:33 FOMO and Fleet Renewal 06:31 Bulker Market Check 07:57 Speculation and Bubble Talk 13:21 Yard Capacity and Bottlenecks 16:33 US Policy and Geopolitical Risk 20:21 Decarbonization Takes Backseat 25:19 Conclusion

In this episode of the Shipbrokers Podcast, Richard Matthews, Head of Research at Gibson, delves into the impact of technology and AI on shipbroking and chartering. Joined by Ioannis Martinos, founder of Signal Group, the discussion covers the evolving role of technology in the industry, the successful launch of Signal's innovative chartering products, and the recent acquisition of AXS Marine. Ioannis shares insights on leveraging technology for commercial advantage, integrating customer feedback, and the significance of AI in enhancing operational efficiency. The episode also touches on the competitive landscape, future breakthroughs in maritime tech, and the importance of continuous innovation driven by customer needs. 00:00 Introduction to the Shipbrokers Podcast 00:18 The Impact of Technology on Shipbroking 01:17 Interview with Ioannis Martinos: Founding Signal Group 02:58 Signal Group's Innovative Chartering Products 12:40 The Role of AI and Data in Chartering 18:11 Acquisition of AXS and Market Consolidation 25:36 Future of Maritime Tech and Final Thoughts

In the first episode of 2026, Richard Matthews delves into the chaotic geopolitical landscape and its impact on the tanker and LPG market, joined by guests Ed Romer-Lee and Sen Raviraj from Gibson Shipbrokers The podcast discusses recent events, including the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro, ongoing tensions in Ukraine and Iran, and potential implications on China’s strategy towards Taiwan. The group analyse how these geopolitical developments are affecting crude and LPG trades, the demand for tankers, and the possible shifts from sanctioned to mainstream fleets.  The episode also anticipates further complexities in the year ahead, predicting continued volatility and higher freight rates amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty. 00:20 Geopolitical Chaos in 2026 01:25 Expert Insights: Ed Romer-Lee and Sen Raviraj  02:10 Venezuela's Oil Sanctions and Global Impact 05:08 Shifts in Tanker Demand and Market Dynamics 12:23 Iran's Role in the Global LPG Market 14:32 Impact of Sanctions on Chinese and Iranian Trade 17:35 Market Reactions and Future Predictions 22:10 Global Oil Supply Chain Tightening 22:28 Geopolitical Influences on the Freight Market 24:04 Iranian Oil and Sanctions 26:28 Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Its Implications 34:04 US-China Trade Relations and Tariffs 37:42 Predictions for the Freight Market in 2026

In this episode of the Shipbrokers Podcast, hosted by Richard Matthews, head of research at Gibson Ship Brokers,  Neil Atkinson, an independent energy analyst, discusses the complexities of oil demand forecasts.  They explore why predictions for the oil market vary significantly among institutions like the IEA and OPEC..  Atkinson emphasises the resilience of oil demand due to ongoing developments in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia, where economic growth and rising populations drive energy needs that renewables alone cannot meet.  They also delve into the impact of geopolitical factors, sanctions, and industry regulations on the global oil market. The episode concludes with a discussion on long-term oil demand outlooks and the importance of balancing ambitious climate policies with economic realities. 00:00 Introduction to the Shipbrokers Podcast 00:27 Neil Atkinson's Career Journey 01:29 Diverging Oil Demand Forecasts 05:08 Short-Term Oil Supply and Demand 10:18 Impact of Sanctions on Oil Markets 16:36 Long-Term Oil Demand and Peak Oil 27:52 Challenges in Energy Transition 34:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Shipbrokers Podcast, host Richard Matthews talks with Anuj Gosalia, an S&P Broker from the Mumbai office at Gibson Shipbrokers, who specialises in sourcing vessels for recycling. Anuj shares his journey from a small town known for ship recycling to becoming a key player in the ship recycling market. They discuss the evolution and processes of ship recycling, the impacts of environmental regulations like the Hong Kong Convention, and the future outlook for the recycling market. Anuj also provides insights into recycling challenges like the 'Dark Fleet' and offers his perspective on investment strategies in the current market conditions. 00:00 Richard introduces the podcast and today’s guest  00:19 Meet Anuj Gosalia: From the hub of Ship Recycling in Alang 04:23 Understanding the Ship Recycling Process 07:43 The Impact of the Hong Kong Convention 11:34 Current Market Dynamics and Future Outlook 19:58 Challenges for Recycling the Dark Fleet 25:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Shipbrokers Podcast, Richard Matthews, head of research at Gibson Shipbrokers, interviews Paul Martin, a chemical engineer and independent consultant from Spitfire Research.  They delve into the hydrogen and ammonia markets, discussing the misconceptions about hydrogen as a fuel, its inefficiencies, and the challenges in transporting it.  Paul explains why hydrogen, largely derived from fossil fuels, is not a feasible long-term fuel source compared to electricity and green alternatives like methanol. They also tackle the critical safety concerns associated with using ammonia as a marine fuel and why electrification should be prioritised across various industries. The conversation offers a grounded perspective on the future of energy, highlighting the complexities of decarbonizing sectors like shipping and aviation. 00:00 Introduction to The Shipbrokers Podcast 00:31 Guest Introduction: Paul Martin from Spitfire Research 01:08 Understanding the Hydrogen and Ammonia Markets 02:39 The Realities of Hydrogen Transportation 03:50 Hydrogen as a Commodity and Fuel 04:44 Challenges of Using Hydrogen as a Fuel 09:35 Green Hydrogen Production and Its Challenges 15:10 Ammonia as an Alternative Fuel 25:25 Decarbonizing Shipping and Aviation 32:06 Conclusion

In this episode of the Shipbrokers Podcast, brought to you by Gibson Shipbrokers, Richard Matthews speaks to freight analyst Michael Ryan of Sparta Commodities to break down arbitrages in the shipping and commodities trading scene. The conversation covers the concept of arbitrage, traditional and emerging Arbs, and how market factors like geopolitical activities and seasonal demand affect these opportunities. Michael also shares insights on the impact of geopolitical events like the war in Ukraine and US sanctions, and future prospects such as Arctic Arbs. Finally, they discuss the influence of environmental regulations on Arbs and how Sparta Commodities' live arbitrage margins tool aids in navigating the market. 00:00 Introduction to the Ship Brokers Podcast 00:27 Guest Introduction: Michael Ryan 01:07 Understanding Arbitrage in Shipping 02:57 Components and Dynamics of Arbs 08:06 Seasonal and Geopolitical Influences on Arbs 22:03 Impact of Environmental Regulations on Arbs 22:58 Future of Arbs and Conclusion

In this episode of the Shipbrokers Podcast, hosted by Richard Matthews,  the focus is on the evolving landscape of ship finance. Guest Richard Moore, director of EA Gibson Capital, shares his extensive experience in shipping and finance, detailing the formation of EA Gibson Capital and its offerings.  The discussion covers current trends in ship financing, including the rise of green financing, alternative financing, and the role of Asian banks. It also examines the impact of US policies on Chinese leasing and the significance of decarbonisation. The episode provides valuable insights into the challenges of refinancing under new U.S. regulations and offers expert perspectives on future growth areas in ship finance. 00:00 Introduction to the Shipbrokers Podcast 00:30 Meet Richard Moore: Background and Gibson Capital 01:31 Current Trends in Ship Financing 06:02 Sector-Specific Financing Approaches 07:42 Private Equity and Competitive Financing Sources 15:52 Impact of US Trade Regulations on Chinese Leasing 22:13 Future Investment Opportunities in Shipping 25:11 Conclusion