New shipbroking house launches with an eye on decarbonisation 

A new shipbroking house has launched with offices in Hong Kong and London. Called FUTURESHIPS, its aim is to provide focused commercial shipping services in the decarbonisation space. 

FUTURESHIPS’ primary focus is on high-performing, highly rated vessels, as well as older vessels that have been retrofitted with energy-efficient technologies and those showcasing cutting-edge, forward-looking designs with the potential for alternative fuels. The company specialises in the dry bulk sector, catering to the handy to panamax markets.

As a tonnage broker, FUTURESHIPS provides time chartering services for both spot and period charters. The firm is capable of guiding and assisting clients in negotiating tailored CP terms that prioritise decarbonisation for both new charters and revisions to existing ones. As a cargo broker, FUTURESHIPS offers voyage chartering services. The company plans to broaden its scope in the near future.

FUTURESHIPS is led by Ross Fothergill who has an extensive 25-year history in commercial shipping. Throughout his career, Fothergill has held various positions, including shipbroker, ship operator, commercial manager, owners’ representative, and port agent. His experience covers the dry bulk, breakbulk, and container sectors.

Fothergill commented: “Collaboration between owners and charterers in the commercial arena will be essential to reach the goals set by the newly revised 2023 IMO GHG Strategy and the looming EU ETS requirements from 2024. FUTURESHIPS has been established to provide this focused service in the shipbroking space. We look forward to adding value where we can and collaborating with like-minded parties, not only between owners and charterers, but in all sectors of commercial shipping to achieve societal objectives in decarbonisation.”