On the heels of a partnership that saw the New York-quoted ownerlaunch a very-large gas carrier (VLGC) pool with Phoenix Tankers, equity analysts like Erik Nikolai Stavseth of Arctic Securities argued the odds that a union will take shape are looking increasingly low.

In a note to clients the Oslo-based researcher said the pooling agreement is a “positive” development for Dorian but was quick to point out that it appears to serve as further evidence of the US operator’s disinterest in a merger with Avance.

“We