Frontline optimistic despite volatility
Higher activity will raise volatility as the IMO 2020 deadline approaches, while strong growth in the crude trades and distances, better fundamentals on the vessel supply side due to an ageing fleet and the sulphur cap as a potential demand catalyst are seen as positive factors.
The market improved in the fourth quarter before pulling back due to Opec cuts, accelerated fleet growth and seasonal factors. However, the market has reversed course again in the first few months of the year