ATHENS, Greece, Nov. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Top Ships Inc. (the “Company” or “TOPS”) (NYSE:TOPS), an international owner and operator of modern, fuel efficient “ECO” tanker vessels, announced today that it has closed the previously announced sale and leaseback financing agreements (the “SLBs” or “Financing Agreements”) with a major Chinese financier for the refinancing of its two 300,000 dwt VLCC tankers, the M/Ts Julius Caesar and Legio X Equestris, its 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker, the M/T Eco Oceano ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The maritime tanker industry is entering a second phase of market upcycle, with mid-size crude and product tankers experiencing record earnings from 2022 to 2024, while Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) lagged due to OPEC+ production cuts [1][2] - OPEC+ is reversing its production cuts, which is expected to benefit VLCCs and lead to stronger rates across all tanker segments [1][2] Market Dynamics - Seaborne crude volumes are projected to increase, with OPEC+ returning 1.65 million barrels per day (mb/d) of previous production cuts, primarily from Middle Eastern countries [2] - Middle East exports (excluding Iran) peaked at 17.0 mb/d in late 2022, with VLCC spot rates averaging $80,000/day, but have since averaged 14.7 mb/d in 2023 with VLCC rates at $45,000/day [2][3] - A tighter supply/demand balance is anticipated as seaborne volumes are expected to return to 2022 highs, despite modest fleet capacity increases [2][4] VLCC Market Insights - Historically, VLCCs have led tanker rates; however, mid-size tankers gained preference due to changing trade patterns [3] - A surge in VLCC rates above $100,000/day historically leads to increases in rates for smaller tanker segments [3] - VLCC rate forecasts have been raised to $67,500/day for 2026 and 2027, up from $65,000/day, compared to an average of $45,000/day in 2023 [4][15] Financial Health of Companies - The average net loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for tanker companies has improved from 50% in 2022 to 23% currently, indicating stronger balance sheets [5][16] - Companies have utilized cash flows to pay down debt, reinvest in fleets, and return capital to shareholders, with a significant increase in cash reserves from $1.1 billion to $2.9 billion since 2022 [5][18] Investment Recommendations - Top stock picks include Frontline (FRO), Scorpio Tankers (STNG), and International Seaways (INSW), all rated as "Buy" with respective price targets of $28.00, $70.00, and $58.00 [6][9] - DHT Holdings (DHT) and Hafnia (HAFN) are also highlighted as strong investment opportunities with price targets of $16.00 and $7.50, respectively [6][9] Valuation Metrics - The tanker sector is expected to see improved valuations as net asset values (NAVs) shift to support levels rather than target levels [5] - The average tanker company in coverage has a P/NAV ratio of 88% and a projected 2026 free cash flow yield of 18% [21][23] Additional Insights - Geopolitical factors have significantly influenced shipping fundamentals, with the current cycle driven by fleet dislocation rather than strong demand fundamentals [19] - Potential consolidation in the tanker sector could enhance access to capital and improve valuations, particularly if larger players merge [20] Company-Specific Highlights - Ardmore Shipping (ASC) has focused on debt reduction and fleet modernization, with a target price of $15.00 [24][25] - DHT Holdings (DHT) is positioned as a pure-play VLCC company with a target price of $16.00, emphasizing its high dividend payout policy [32][36] - Okeanis Eco Tankers (ECO) operates a modern fleet with a target price of $35.00, focusing on shareholder returns and premium rate capture [42][47] This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in the conference call, providing insights into the tanker industry, market dynamics, financial health of companies, and investment recommendations.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a blended loss of $7,600,000 for Q2, with a profit of $7,700,000 from the old CMB Tech and a loss of $50,000,000 from Golden Ocean exposure [11][42] - The liquidity stands at approximately $400,000,000, with a contract backlog of about $2,900,000,000 [11][10] - The company has $1,860,000,000 in outstanding CapEx commitments, of which $1,600,000,000 is already financed [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The dry bulk division, Bossimar, has become the largest division, with 119 ships in operation [6][22] - The time charter equivalent (TCE) for the Newcastle MAXs on the CMB Tech side was $23,000 for Q2, increasing to $28,000 for Q3 to date [23][24] - The Suezmaxes achieved a TCE of $40,000 for both Q2 and Q3 to date [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a market cap exceeding $2,000,000,000, with a free float of 38% [4] - The order book to fleet ratio for Suezmaxes stands at 19%, while VLCCs are at 14% [20] - Demand indicators for dry bulk are positive, with increased iron ore imports and reduced steel inventories in China [24][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to integrate the fleets from the merger with Golden Ocean and explore opportunities across all five divisions [50][41] - There is a focus on maintaining a modern fleet, with plans for fleet rejuvenation and potential sales of older vessels [66][67] - The company is positive on tankers and dry bulk markets, while remaining cautious on containers and chemicals [41][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the tanker markets, anticipating increased oil supply and supportive conditions for the dry bulk sector [19][20] - The company is monitoring the impact of potential U.S. regulations on greenhouse gas emissions, with expectations that it could lead to increased interest in long-term charters [62][63] - The management is confident in the operational leverage and integration of the fleets post-merger, expecting positive outcomes in the coming quarters [75][76] Other Important Information - The company declared an interim dividend of €0.05, with plans to assess future dividends based on financial performance [13][48] - The merger with Golden Ocean has been completed, enhancing the company's position in the maritime sector [42][43] - The company is actively working on the infrastructure for ammonia bunkering for its new vessels [69] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the interpretation of the dividend payment? - The board decided to initiate dividends, which will be evaluated quarterly based on financial performance and cash flow needs [48][49] Question: What will be the focus for the company post-merger? - The focus will be on integrating the fleet and exploring opportunities across all divisions while maintaining operational efficiency [50][51] Question: Can you provide details on refinancing post-merger? - The refinancing of the Golden Ocean fleet has been completed, with new covenants aligned with banks [56][58] Question: How will the U.S. presidential actions affect greenhouse gas regulations? - The impact is uncertain, but management believes there is still a good chance for the regulations to pass, which could positively influence long-term charter opportunities [60][62] Question: What is the stance on older vessels in the fleet? - The company aims to operate a modern fleet and will consider selling older vessels if good prices are offered [66][67] Question: Will iron ore volumes from Africa replace existing volumes? - It is expected that the new volumes will coexist with existing ones, potentially benefiting the market overall [72][73] Question: Are share buybacks being considered? - Share buybacks are a possibility, but the focus will be on operational performance and integration post-merger before making such decisions [74][75] Question: How does the company view the shadow fleet? - The company hopes for the shadow fleet to disappear, as it competes unfairly with the official market [79][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a blended loss of $7,600,000 for Q2, with a profit of $7,700,000 from the old CMB Tech and a loss of $50,000,000 from Golden Ocean exposure [12][43] - EBITDA for the quarter was €224,000,000, and the liquidity stood at approximately $400,000,000 [14][12] - The contract backlog remained stable at around $2,900,000,000, thanks to additional long-term charters from Golden Ocean [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The dry bulk division, Bossimar, has become the largest division, with 119 ships in operation [6][24] - The time charter equivalent (TCE) for the Newcastle MAXs was $18,500 per day in Q2, increasing to $23,500 in Q3 to date [25] - The chemical tanker fleet consists of six vessels, with expectations for higher rates in Q3 compared to July's $22,000 [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The tanker market is expected to benefit from OPEC+ cuts being reversed, potentially increasing oil supply and supporting tanker rates [21][22] - In the dry bulk market, indicators show positive trends with increased steel mill utilization and declining iron ore inventories [26][29] - The order book for Suezmax and VLCC stands at 19% and 14% respectively, indicating a low supply of new vessels [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to integrate the fleets from the merger with Golden Ocean while exploring opportunities across all five divisions [51][42] - There is a focus on maintaining a modern fleet, with plans to sell older vessels if favorable prices are available [68] - The company is positive on tankers and dry bulk markets, while remaining cautious on containers and chemicals [42][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the tanker and dry bulk markets, citing strong demand and limited supply [42][44] - Concerns were raised about the potential impact of U.S. political actions on greenhouse gas regulations, but management remains hopeful for the passage of IMO regulations [61][63] - The company is focused on operational integration and optimizing costs post-merger [60][44] Other Important Information - The company has a significant CapEx commitment of $1,900,000,000, with $1,600,000,000 already financed [3][12] - An interim dividend of €0.05 was declared, with plans to assess future dividends based on financial performance [14][50] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the interpretation of the dividend payment? - Management indicated that the dividend is a discretionary policy and will be evaluated quarterly based on financial health and investment needs [49][50] Question: What will be the focus for the company post-merger? - The focus will be on integrating the fleet and exploring opportunities across all divisions while maintaining operational efficiency [51][52] Question: Can you provide details on refinancing post-merger? - The refinancing of the Golden Ocean fleet has been completed, with new covenants aligned with banks [58][59] Question: How will the U.S. presidential actions affect greenhouse gas regulations? - Management believes there is still a good chance for the regulations to pass, which could positively impact long-term charter opportunities [61][63] Question: What is the stance on older vessels in the fleet? - The company aims to operate a modern fleet and will consider selling older vessels if market conditions are favorable [68][70] Question: Will iron ore volumes from Africa replace existing volumes? - Management expects that increased iron ore volumes will be net positive for the market, although competition with existing volumes is possible [75] Question: Are share buybacks being considered? - Share buybacks are a potential tool for rewarding shareholders, but the focus will be on operational performance and integration for the next few quarters [76][77] Question: How does the company view the shadow fleet? - The company hopes for the shadow fleet to disappear due to maintenance and operational challenges, which would benefit the market [82][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Teekay Tankers reported GAAP net income of $62.6 million or $1.81 per share and adjusted net income of $48.7 million or $1.41 per share in Q2 2025 [4] - The company generated approximately $62.8 million in free cash flow from operations and ended the quarter with a cash and short-term investment position of $712 million and no debt [5][6] - The company declared a regular quarterly fixed dividend of $0.25 per share [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter spot rates were counter seasonally strong, outperforming the last two quarters and above long-term averages for the second quarter [5][7] - The company sold or agreed to sell 11 vessels for total gross proceeds of $340 million and estimated book gains on sale of approximately $100 million [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global oil production is expected to increase sharply due to the unwinding of OPEC plus supply cuts and higher production from South America [8][9] - The OPEC plus group is expected to fully unwind 2.2 million barrels per day of voluntary supply cuts by September 2025, a year ahead of schedule [9][10] - The average age of the global tanker fleet is at a 25-year high of 14 years, with the order book stabilizing at approximately 15% of the global tanker fleet [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Teekay Tankers is focused on renewing its fleet by reducing exposure to older vessels and opportunistically selling older Suezmaxes while acquiring modern vessels [5][6] - The company aims to gradually change the pace of buying as it remains focused on renewing and growing its fleet in an accretive manner to future earnings [6][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes there are potential tailwinds for the tanker markets towards the end of the year, despite uncertainties due to the complex geopolitical landscape [6][12] - The company anticipates that the market will continue to exhibit volatility going forward, influenced by geopolitical factors and sanctions on oil exports [12][13] Other Important Information - The company has a low cash flow breakeven of $13,000 per day, which positions it well for generating strong cash flows and taking incremental steps on fleet renewal [14][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you expand on the comments regarding the purchasing of the latest ship and the sales? - Management indicated that they have been active in selling older ships and are looking to recycle capital from those sales to gradually add newer ships to the fleet [20][21] Question: How are you thinking about further capital deployment as you renew the fleet? - The priority is to find good purchase candidates within core segments of Aframaxes and Suezmaxes, with potential for larger newbuildings in the medium term [22][23] Question: Do you see the increase in oil volumes lifting rates mainly in Q4? - Management expects more oil volumes coming on the market later in the year, which should lead to stronger rates as the summer months transition into the seasonally stronger winter months [28][29] Question: How should we think about the run rate for other revenue going forward? - Other revenues were higher due to a one-time restructuring charge funded by a customer, which is not expected to recur [30][31]

Q1 2019 Highlights - VLCC average spot rate in TI Pool was $35,195 per day, compared to $18,725 in Q1 2018[8] - VLCC average time charter rate was $27,630 per day[8] - Suezmax average spot rate was $27,380 per day, compared to $14,000 in Q1 2018[8] - Suezmax average time charter rate was $32,680 per day[8] - In Q1 so far, VLCC 535% fixed at around $26500 per day[12] - In Q1 so far, Suezmax 493% fixed at around $18000 per day[12] Financial Performance - Revenue increased to $232589 thousand in Q1 2019 from $98136 thousand in Q1 2018[13] - Net profit for the period was $19526 thousand in Q1 2019, compared to a loss of $39091 thousand in Q1 2018[13] - Result after taxation per share was $009 in Q1 2019, compared to $(025) in Q1 2018[13] - Cash increased to $1785 million in Mar-19 from $1730 million in Dec-18[15] Market Signals - US crude export outlook shows potential for growth to 2022[18] - Correlation between Euronav share price and new build VLCC value is 84%[25] - Demand 3% Supply 3% - VLCC $35K Q4 & Q1[26] Liquidity and Leverage - Liquidity increased to $785 million[17] - Leverage is 462% marked to market[16]

Financial Performance - Revenue for Q3 2020 was $241 million[16], a significant increase compared to the year-to-date revenue of $5772 million in 2019[14] - Net income for Q3 2020 reached $462 million[16], a substantial turnaround from a loss of $419 million year-to-date in 2019[14] - Euronav's leverage stands at 358% of book value, with available liquidity of $12 billion[19] Fleet and Operations - VLCC average spot pool rate was $42000 per day in Q3 2020, compared to $25250 in Q3 2019[8] - Suezmax average spot rate was $23500 per day in Q3 2020, versus $17250 in Q3 2019[8] - The company extended an FSO contract by 10 years to 2032, projecting $645 million in additional revenue for the joint venture[11, 34] Capital Allocation - The company declared a Q3 dividend of USD 9c per share and executed a share buyback of $185 million[11] - Year-to-date dividend yield reached 21%, with $157 per share distributed[13] - Euronav has $236 million in outstanding capex, primarily financed by bank loans, with VLCC deliveries expected in Q1 2021[13] Market Outlook - Approximately 50% of Q4 VLCC days are fixed at around $225k per day, and 45% of Suezmax days are fixed at about $115k per day[11] - The tanker market remains in a transition phase, influenced by COVID-19 restrictions, OPEC+ supply cuts, and vessel supply[35, 36] - Recycling trends indicate that when VLCC rates fall below P&L breakeven, approximately 5% of the fleet is typically recycled[22]