Bullish Shipowners Give Verdict on World Leaders and Fuels in New Study

Shipowners are sending a message of confidence that the world will keep moving forward despite the volatile environment, according to a newly published Greek study. In its Global Shipping Outlook 2026, Kapa Research interviewed 314 shipowners and senior executives on challenges ranging from geopolitical risks to alternative fuels and political leaders. The survey found deep anxiety about instability paired with firm confidence, with 94 percent optimistic about their company's prospects and a majority identifying the East as the industry's primary future driver.

 

Details of the Study

 

A new study captures shipowner sentiment. It is the Global Shipping Outlook 2026. Kapa Research conducted it. It interviewed 314 shipowners and executives. These came from leading shipping companies.

The study covered a range of topics. It asked about current industry challenges. Geopolitical risks were one focus. Alternative fuels were also assessed. Views on political leaders featured too.

 

The Prevailing Psychology

 

The study found a distinctive mindset. Instability is seen as the new environment. Geopolitical crises ranked as the top concern. This held across every maritime centre. Ukraine, the Red Sea and the Middle East featured.

Yet confidence remains strong. Around 70 percent said shipping had improved. A remarkable 94 percent were optimistic. This concerned their company's prospects. Many saw the Hormuz crisis as an opportunity.

 

The Shift Toward the East

 

The study revealed a clear geographic shift. Respondents emphasised the East's influence. Only 17 percent cited Western powers. A 76 percent majority identified the East. This meant China and India specifically.

China's role was seen as central. It is viewed as the leading shipbuilder. It operates the most competitive fleet. It carries the greatest economic weight. Nearly all saw it as important to shipping.

 

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Views on World Leaders

 

The study also rated political leaders. Xi Jinping ranked most favourably. Narendra Modi followed him. Pedro Sánchez came third. These topped the favourability ranking.

Other leaders fared less well. Benjamin Netanyahu ranked unfavourably. Tayyip Erdoğan also ranked poorly. The US president sat near the bottom. Researchers linked this to the Hormuz crisis.

 

Views on Alternative Fuels

 

The study assessed decarbonisation attitudes. Biofuels and LNG were seen as most viable. These scored 40 and 37 percent. Methanol followed at 13 percent. These reflect current fuel preferences.

However, concerns persist about alternatives. Availability and cost remain open questions. Diesel stays as a fallback. For some, it is the only viable fuel. This tempers enthusiasm for alternatives.

 

Attitudes to Regulation and Net Zero

 

The study found regulatory concerns. Fragmented frameworks ranked as a major problem. This followed geopolitical crises. Most doubted the IMO net-zero target. Nearly seven in ten were pessimistic.

The EU ETS drew particular criticism. Most believed it would harm competitiveness. Greek executives were the harshest critics. Companies are still investing in efficiency. However, few expect widespread alternative fuel use by 2035.