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German owners say cooperation has stopped insolvencies

Despite the widely reported financial woes of many KG Funds the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR) says cooperative ventures have avoided the bankruptcies of whole shipping companies.

Marcus Hand, Editor

December 15, 2013

1 Min Read
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VDR noted a trend towards co-operative ventures in ship management and the financing of ships over the last year especially among smaller-to-mid-sized owners. In particular in the sub-5,000 teu containership sector where rates remained “less than adequate” it said German owners of existing vessels were working with banks to find solutions until markets picked-up.

“The German charter shipping companies are adapting to the new business environment. As a result, and unlike other countries, we have so far largely been spared insolvencies of entire shipping companies here in Germany,” said Michael Behrendt, president of the VDR.

Behrendt added that ensuring ships remained under German ownership and management remained a priority despite the crisis. “German shipping companies continue to be the market leaders when it comes to ship management expertise.”

About the Author

Marcus Hand

Editor

Marcus Hand is the editor of Seatrade Maritime News and a dedicated maritime journalist with over two decades of experience covering the shipping industry in Asia.

Marcus is also an experienced industry commentator and has chaired many conferences and round tables. Before joining Seatrade at the beginning of 2010, Marcus worked for the shipping industry journal Lloyd's List for a decade and before that the Singapore Business Times covering shipping and aviation.

In November 2022, Marcus was announced as a member of the Board of Advisors to the Singapore Journal of Maritime Talent and Technology (SJMTT) to help bring together thought leadership around the key areas of talent and technology.

Marcus is the founder of the Seatrade Maritime Podcast that delivers commentary, opinions and conversations on shipping's most important topics.

Conferences & Webinars

Marcus Hand regularly moderates at international maritime events. Below you’ll find a list of selected past conferences and webinars.

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