Adam Kent has always loved ships and was actually a ship-spotter when he was young. He grew up on the Isle of Wight, but was never meant to work in the shipping industry. Maritime Strategies International is an independent shipping consultancy, producing market forecasting of the shipping markets. In order to do that you need to be on top of everything from steel price, unemployment rates and GDP to oil prices and new regulations.  Adam explains what the drivers are for the various shipping segments and why they have such big impact on earnings and vessel values. We discuss the eco shipping, scrapping, and newbuilding market. We go through the shipbuilding market and we touch upon the new Panama Canal and if there is any credibility to the Nicaragua Canal.  New trading patterns and Adams belief in a constant flow of new regulations to force the shipping industry into becoming more eco-friendly. As you understand, this is like Christmas for the shipping geeks - but hopefully it is also enlightening for those who hasn't seen the light yet, it is a very long and educational episode. Please enjoy! If you are interested in advertising in the Shipping Podcast, like the Swedish Club, please send an email to hello@shippingpodcast.com  Thank you for listening! If you like it - share it with a friend!