Eurozone crisis, coupled with fleet oversupply and a lack of ship financing keep pressuring newbuilding ordering activity.
Clarkson Hellas, in its recent weekly report, mentioned that "Although there have been some reports of new business being concluded this week, the newbuilding market has been subdued."
"As Posidonia getting closer, it will be interesting to see what announcements of newbuilding discussions are announced over the period."
The recent political and economical uncertainties in Europe have had a disparaging effect on buying sentiment from the market, however, Posidonia will give both owners and shipyards a good chance to discuss recent developments in the market, for instance, efficiency enhancements made to designs, etc, Clarkson Hellas added.
Clarkson said, "So much design work has been carried out in the last year. If owners gain confidence on the latest 'Eco Design', it may spur further ordering across the sectors."
Meanwhile, in a separate report from Golden Destiny, it stated that there were just 10 orders reported this week, down by 52% from the past week.
China's Shanhaiguan Shipbuilding Industry contracted for two 76,000-dwt bulkers from a domestic owner and Yangfan booked for six 39,500-dwt bulkers from d'Amico, while Japan's Universal Shipbuilding inked an order for one 318,000-dwt VLCC from Kyoei.
Meanwhile, the demolition market has seen an active scrapping, while demolition prices have a decreasing trend. Over a recent week, a total of 21 vessels were reported demolished, 5% higher than the previous week.