“We believe we can achieve very meaningful savings by upgrading our existing fleet, but see that there can be some savings with the new designs. It all comes down to pricing. For us the newbuildings are also part of a renewal process, which would be normal for shipowners.”

BW group’s Andreas Sohmen-Pao finally defines his position on the upgrade versus newbuilding question. He is doing both.

(BW confirms up to six VLGCs inked in Korea but remains tight-lipped on price)

“We consider the timing very good since shipbuilding prices are still at low levels and, furthermore, we anticipate that at the time of delivery of the vessels in the second half of 2015, the market should be in much better shape.”

Lemissoler Navigation chief executive, Philippos Philis, explains the thinking behind a four plus four supramax deal at a Chinese yard.

(Cypriot owner inks eight-ship supramax series at New Times)

“It is certainly not all doom and gloom on the demand side. With tightening supply already evident in certain sectors, one could have every reason to anticipate an autumn rally.”

Braemar Seascope is also in optimistic mood although the broker is talking about the container trade.

(Rise in demand brings glimmer of hope for box trades)

“It should be an active and interesting autumn as we transition from what some viewed as the ‘spring of hope’ to what others fear will be the ‘winter of despair’.”

Already shivering at the Dickensian prospect that Global Marketing Systems’ Evan Sproviero contemplates. Clearly not a Micawber.

(Scrapping has enjoyed counter-cyclical boom but is there a sting in the tail?)

“An end is not yet in sight. We expect more ship sales in the next two quarters.”

But the outlook is not too good for investors in KG schemes with Nils Lorentzen of Deutsche FondsResearch reporting an alarming rise in sales of German owned containerships.

('Alarming' rise in sales of German-owned ships)

“Our view is, of course, we can do it. We can find dozens of reasons why we can’t do it, but let’s focus on how to get it done. And that’s a heck of a lot more fun.”

Some good old American get up and go from Rob Bryngelson as he explains Excelerate Energy can-do attitude

(Kaiser foot back on the gas pedal)

“Investment is not about six months, it’s about six years.”

A shockingly long term view from Edison investment analyst, Nigel Harrison. Sack that man immediately!

(Clarksons share price rockets to 52-week high)

“I’m not aware of another such outcome involving a shipping company.  A compensation case is very difficult to bring and is rarely successful. There are some that survive an initial motion to dismiss, but not many.”

New York lawyer, Gregory Keller, notes that a settlement that cuts the excessive rewards of Eagle Bulk Shipping’s chief executive, Sophocles Zoullas and his management team is a landmark deal

(Eagle Bulk shareholders in management pay row win)

“The company’s mission is providing service of the highest standard to the clients. This is why we invest in fleet maintenance, crew education and training, and in upgrading safety procedures and culture. It is also the main reason why, as a matter of policy, we sell older ships.”

Can’t argue with the strategy set out by Tankerska Plovidba president, Mario Pavic.  And so much better than the alternative of setting low standards, cutting maintenance and downgrading safety.

(Tankerska looking to buy secondhand)

“Elaborating on the reasons why we have reached such a situation could hurt a number of egos in the marine insurance world."

A cryptic comment on the end of the Corvette veteran ship hull insurance facility from Claude Sautiere, chief executive of Paris broker, Pierre Leblanc.

(Pierre Leblanc's Corvette hull scheme hits the rocks)