Wedoany.com Report on Feb 24th, Recently, the Capesize vessel market has seen active trading, with Chinese buyers acquiring older tonnage of around 18 years at an average rate of one vessel per week, while European buyers appear less frequently in global broker reports. Among them, Geneva-based Mercuria Energy is an exception, as the company continues to expand its investments in the dry bulk shipping sector.

According to broker sources, Mercuria Energy purchased the 182,100 DWT Epic for approximately $32 million. The vessel was built in 2010 by Odense Steel Shipyard. The seller was Nereus Shipping, a company affiliated with CM Lemos. This marks the fifth Capesize vessel acquired by Mercuria since September, demonstrating its confidence in the earnings prospects for this vessel type and defying typical seasonal slowdown trends.

This transaction represents an improvement compared to the sale of the 174,810 DWT Frontier Kotobuki several weeks ago for $31.4 million. The Frontier Kotobuki was built in 2011 by Namura Shipbuilding. Mercuria's proactive moves in the Capesize market reflect its optimistic view on dry bulk shipping demand.

Simultaneously, Mercuria is also active in the crude oil transportation market. Last week, the group chartered out several VLCCs through Tankers International, including the Olympic Life (built 2019) at a daily rate of approximately $143,000, the Hercules I (built 2017) at $151,000 per day, and the C. Innovator (built 2012) at around $152,000 per day. The Sophia (built 2017) was also reported as chartered, but specific rates were not disclosed.

Mercuria's dual focus on the Capesize and VLCC markets highlights its expansion strategy in both dry bulk and crude oil sectors. The Swiss trading firm, controlled by Marco Dunand and Daniel Jaeggi, is strengthening its market influence through diversified investments.