Shipping companies have continued a stampede to shipyards, splashing $135.4bn on new ships so far this year, according to Clarksons Research.

The UK company recorded 1,454 ships of 106.4m dwt contracted to the end of August, up 27% from 2023.

“There has been a healthy flow of newbuild ordering in 2024 so far,” Clarksons Research said.