CMB.TECH's Q4 2024 Results: A Tale of Fleet Optimization and Resilience

CMB.TECH NV, a leading shipping and logistics company, recently announced its non-audited financial results for the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2024. Despite slow tanker and dry bulk markets, the company reported a net gain of USD 93.1 million and an EBITDA of USD 180.4 million for the quarter. This article explores the key factors driving CMB.TECH's strong performance and its long-term fleet optimization strategy.

Fleet Optimization Strategy

CMB.TECH's long-term fleet optimization strategy involves rejuvenating and optimizing its fleet by selling older vessels and acquiring newbuildings. This strategy is evident in the company's Q4 2024 results, where it sold four older Suezmaxes and delivered seven newbuildings to its fleet.

The sale of the older Suezmaxes, namely Selena (2007), Cap Victor (2007), Cap Felix (2008), and Cap Lara (2007), contributed to a net gain of USD 71.1 million in Q4 2024. This sale allowed CMB.TECH to unlock value from these older vessels, which is in line with the company's strategy of rejuvenating its fleet.

In addition to the sales, CMB.TECH delivered seven newbuildings to its fleet in Q4 2024. These newbuildings included two Suezmaxes, three Newcastlemaxes, one container vessel, and one chemical tanker. This completes a year in which 20 newbuildings were delivered to the company's fleet, further demonstrating its commitment to fleet optimization.

The acquisition of newbuildings helps CMB.TECH maintain a modern and low-carbon fleet, which is crucial for long-term sustainability and competitiveness. The company's diversified fleet of modern ships, along with a good mix of spot and time charter exposure, positions it well to generate value in the future.

Resilience in Slow Markets

The key factors driving CMB.TECH's strong performance in Q4 2024, despite slow tanker and dry bulk markets, can be attributed to the following:

1. Sale of older Suezmaxes: The company realized a significant net gain of USD 71.1 million from the sale of four Suezmaxes, which contributed to its overall profit for the quarter.
2. Delivery of newbuilding vessels: CMB.TECH completed the delivery of seven newbuilding vessels in Q4 2024, helping to rejuvenate and optimize its fleet.
3. Diversified fleet: The company's diversified fleet of modern and low-carbon ships, along with a good mix of spot and time charter exposure, enabled it to generate value in 2025. This diversification helped mitigate the impact of slow markets in specific segments.
4. EBITDA and profit growth: Despite the slow markets, CMB.TECH reported an EBITDA of USD 180.4 million and a net profit of USD 93.1 million in Q4 2024, demonstrating the company's ability to maintain strong financial performance even in challenging market conditions.

In conclusion, CMB.TECH's Q4 2024 results highlight the company's commitment to long-term fleet optimization and its ability to navigate slow markets. By rejuvenating its fleet, unlocking value from older vessels, and maintaining a modern and low-carbon fleet, CMB.TECH positions itself for future growth and sustainability. The company's strong performance in Q4 2024, despite challenging market conditions, further underscores its resilience and potential for long-term success.