赫伯罗特确认投资22艘小型集装箱船

Core Viewpoint - Hapag-Lloyd is proceeding with an investment plan for 22 small container ships despite a significant decline in profits this year, aiming to modernize its fleet and support its transition to net-zero emissions [1][2]. Investment and Fleet Modernization - The company plans to acquire medium-sized vessels with a capacity of less than 5000 TEU through a combination of long-term leasing and owned ships, with preliminary contracts signed with two Chinese shipyards valued at approximately $1.58 billion [1]. - The new vessels will have capacities ranging from 3500 TEU to 4500 TEU, built by Yantai Raffles CIMC Offshore and Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering [1]. Financial Performance - In Q3, Hapag-Lloyd's profit dropped to €138 million (approximately $160 million), a decline of over 85% compared to €955 million in the same period last year, with revenue decreasing from €5.2 billion to €4.6 billion [1]. - For the first nine months, overall profit fell to €846 million, nearly halving from €1.6 billion in the previous year [1]. Market Environment and Strategic Response - CEO Rolf Habben Jansen noted that the market environment has been highly volatile due to geopolitical developments and trade policy uncertainties, but strong customer demand has led to significant volume growth [2]. - The company has narrowed its profit expectations for FY2025, with EBITDA projected between €2.8 billion and €3.2 billion, and EBIT between €500 million and €1 billion [2]. Pricing and Competitive Position - Average freight rates remain under pressure, with the price per TEU at $1397, a decrease of 4.8% year-on-year [3]. - The Gemini network, a collaboration with AP Moller-Maersk, has improved schedule reliability and is expected to yield cost advantages by 2026 [3]. Long-term Outlook - Hapag-Lloyd's investment decision reflects strategic foresight, enhancing the flexibility of its feeder network and contributing to decarbonization efforts, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness during low freight rate periods [3]. - The company remains cautiously optimistic about a recovery in global trade, signaling a commitment to sustainable development in the shipping industry [3].