Why investors allocate capital to shipping
More than 80% of internationally traded goods are transported by sea, making shipping one of the foundations of global trade. Despite its central role in the world economy, shipping accounts for only around 3% of global CO₂ emissions and continues to improve its environmental efficiency. Since 2008, seaborne trade has increased significantly while emissions per transported unit have continued to decline.
Multipurpose vessels play an essential role in transporting project cargo, energy infrastructure, industrial equipment and other specialised and complex cargoes. Demand for these specialised vessels is increasingly driven by long-term investment themes such as energy transition, grid expansion and industrial development.
While demand continues to grow, the global multipurpose fleet is ageing and replacement activity remains limited. This combination of growing demand and constrained supply creates an attractive environment for modern multipurpose vessels.
Briese operates the world's largest multipurpose fleet and remains a leading force in the sector through its integrated operating platform, fleet renewal and investment in next-generation vessel designs.
Pioneer and leader in multipurpose shipping
Access to one of the world's largest and most experienced multipurpose shipping platforms.
Benchmark in multipurpose chartering
Market-leading chartering capabilities support vessel utilisation and commercial performance across market cycles.
Delivering the energy transition worldwide
Supporting the transportation of critical energy infrastructure, industrial projects and grid expansion worldwide.
Integrated global operating platform
Connecting cargo owners, projects and vessel operations through 30+ offices and 2,000+ seafarers worldwide.
How Value Is Created
Growing Demand for Project and Heavy-Lift Cargo
Global demand for project and heavy lift transportation is supported by long-term investment in energy infrastructure, power grids, industrial facilities and large-scale development projects. According to the World Bank, global growth is expected to remain positive over the medium term, providing a supportive backdrop for continued investment and trade.
At the same time, geopolitical tensions, energy security considerations and the restructuring of global supply chains are accelerating investment in power generation, transmission networks and strategic infrastructure. UNCTAD identifies these developments as important drivers reshaping global trade patterns and supporting long-term investment in critical energy and industrial assets worldwide.
The expansion of renewable energy, LNG infrastructure, data centres and artificial-intelligence infrastructure requires the transportation of increasingly large, heavy and complex components. These projects generate demand for transformers, generators, turbines, industrial modules and other specialised cargoes that exceed the capabilities of conventional vessel types.
According to Drewry, a leading independent maritime research and consultancy firm, demand for multipurpose shipping is expected to grow by approximately 2.6% per annum through 2030.
A Modern Fleet for a Changing Market
The global multipurpose fleet is undergoing a significant renewal process. According to Drewry, the average age of the global multipurpose shipping fleet is approximately 22 years, with around one third of carrying capacity already more than 20 years old. At the same time, project cargoes are becoming larger, heavier and increasingly complex. Energy infrastructure, data centres, power-grid expansion and industrial developments require modern vessels with greater lifting capacity, operational flexibility and efficiency.
Briese recognised these developments early and has continuously adapted its fleet to changing market requirements. Older vessels were selectively sold and replaced with modern, more efficient and increasingly capable tonnage. This active fleet-management approach has enabled Briese to enhance cargo capabilities while maintaining a modern fleet profile.
Today, the Briese fleet comprises 128 vessels with an average age of 9.5 years, substantially below the average age of the global multipurpose shipping fleet. A sustained programme of newbuilding deliveries and selective vessel disposals has created a modern fleet platform for increasingly demanding project and heavy-lift transportation requirements.
Together with its co-investors, Briese has continuously invested in fleet renewal and long-term competitiveness, creating a modern fleet positioned for the evolving requirements of global project logistics.
Invest alongside Briese in modern vessels supporting global infrastructure
Further Elements of the Investment Case
Many leading maritime nations have adopted tonnage tax regimes to strengthen the competitiveness of their shipping industries and support long-term investment in vessels and maritime infrastructure. Germany introduced its tonnage tax framework in 1999 as part of this internationally established approach. Comparable frameworks exist in numerous leading maritime nations across Europe.
In Germany, the legal basis is Section 5a of the German Income Tax Act (Einkommensteuergesetz), which provides a special method for determining profits from the operation of merchant vessels in international trade. Rather than relying primarily on accounting profits, taxable shipping income is determined largely based on a vessel's net tonnage.
This approach can create a more predictable and stable tax environment across shipping cycles and market conditions, supporting long-term planning, operational competitiveness and fleet investment.
A Long-Term Partnership Built on Experience and Trust
Swiss Maritime Investment Expertise
Combining financial expertise with direct access to one of Europe's leading maritime platforms and more than a decade of experience in maritime investments.
Transparency & Alignment
Long-term partnerships, transparent communication and co-investment alongside investors, ensuring alignment throughout the investment lifecycle.
First-Hand Industry Access
Regular vessel and shipyard visits, market monitoring and direct dialogue with operational management.
