Zheng Quan Zhi Xing·2025-06-10 13:09Core Viewpoint - The company, COSCO Shipping Energy Transportation Co., Ltd., is planning to issue A-shares to specific investors in 2025 to fund the construction of new vessels, including 6 VLCCs, 3 Aframax oil tankers, and 2 LNG carriers, in response to growing global energy transportation demands and to modernize its aging fleet [5][6][8]. Group 1: Investment Projects - The fundraising project involves the construction of 6 VLCCs, 3 Aframax oil tankers, and 2 LNG carriers, with total investment planned to be funded entirely by domestic cash contributions [5][6]. - The construction of 6 VLCCs is expected to be completed by 2028, with 20% of the construction costs already paid and contracts in execution [7][8]. - The LNG carriers are projected to be delivered by 2027, with similar progress in contract execution and payment [7][8]. Group 2: Industry Trends - Global oil transportation demand is expected to grow due to economic recovery and geopolitical tensions, with an estimated 2.212 billion tons of oil trade in 2024 [8][9]. - The average age of VLCCs is increasing, leading to a significant need for fleet renewal, as the delivery of new vessels is insufficient to meet the demand for replacing aging ships [9][10]. - China's LNG import volume is projected to increase significantly, making it the largest LNG importer globally by 2024, which will drive demand for LNG transportation [10][11]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The company holds the largest fleet capacity in the oil transportation sector, but its VLCC fleet is aging compared to competitors like China Merchants Energy Shipping and Fredriksen Group [11][12]. - The company aims to enhance its competitiveness by expanding its LNG fleet, which currently ranks fourth globally, to meet the rising demand for LNG transportation [12][13]. - The company has established strong relationships with major clients in the oil and LNG sectors, ensuring stable demand for its services [13][14]. Group 4: Financial and Operational Considerations - The company has a high utilization rate of approximately 94% for its VLCCs and 98% for its LNG carriers, indicating effective operational management [15][16]. - The investment in new vessels is seen as necessary to maintain market leadership and improve profitability, especially in the context of increasing domestic oil transportation needs [21][22]. - The transition to a market-based operation model for LNG carriers is expected to provide more flexibility and responsiveness to market conditions, enhancing revenue potential [22][23].