Splash Chat providing unique insights into shipping and offshore

I think I have learned more about the real goings on in the shipping and offshore industries via the opening 24 hours of the Splash Chat feed than I could have done anywhere else. If I was a shipping conference producer, for instance, I’d be rather concerned!

Signs are that our new interactive forum could become an incredibly valuable tool for those that pay it a keen interest. The level of expertise garnered in the first day has been simply mind-blowing.

For those that have missed it, here’s some highlights. There was speculation that a well known Asian container carrier could be put up for sale – you’ll need to access Splash Chat and scroll through the debate to find out whom … it will surprise you.

On container freight rates all were agreed we are facing a bleeding race to the bottom on many fronts.

“The ones with the biggest pockets will prevail at the end,” one Splash Chat user commented.

Much of the conversation was led by the news stories popping up on Splash – it helped that it was a super busy day for news.

The Hanjin Shipping results sparked much conjecture with many scratching their heads on how the ailing South Korean carrier managed to grow box volumes by 7% in Q2.

An expert on transpacific trades said only a few major BCOs had contracts on the transpacific trade with Hanjin so presumbably NVOCC support on the spot market aided Hanjin’s surprise volume recovery.

As ever, the Splash news site was peppered with plenty of offshore stories yesterday, which led to much fascinating insight into the sector via Splash Chat.

On the downfall of Singapore oilfield services firm Swiber, one reader said many saw it coming: Emperor’s New Clothes syndrome.

Some clever private equity guys will swoop in and buy up Swiber’s distressed assets, another reader suggested.

With Farstad delaying quarterly results ratcheting up market talk of a possible takeover, Splash Chat participants pondered who may well move for the struggling OSV company. A host of Norway’s richest men are in the frame – Fredriksen, Rokke and Siem. Arguments were made for each of these three, but perhaps the winning argument came down in favour of Siem, as Farstad’s fleet mix is better suited to the Kristiansand-based owner.

So that’s just a brief snapshot of some of the insights and highlights on day one of Splash Chat. Do check it out today to see what more hidden gems emerge. Access the forum by clicking here.