At the 16th Hydra Shipping Conference, Harris Antoniou – Founder & CEO of Neptune Maritime Leasing, Founding Member and Treasurer of the Board of Komvos, shared his perspective on the major challenges and opportunities currently unfolding in the maritime sector.
“For the first time in recent history, all factors are changing simultaneously, and at great speed. This creates enormous disruption, and we are all trying to discover what we can do.”
In his speech, Mr. Antoniou highlighted:
The rapid geopolitical and economic shifts directly impacting shipping and the shaping of global markets.
The energy transition and the trillions of euros in investments required for the digital and energy transformation of the sector, noting:
“Energy costs in Europe are three to four times higher than in the U.S., and the cost of electricity for European consumers is also significantly higher. We need to find ways to respond to this phenomenon.”
The importance of strengthening the Greek footprint in shipping, ensuring that the emerging opportunities are reflected in the Greek economy.
The need for new financial instruments, such as maritime leasing, to support small and medium-sized enterprises in the sector. He stressed:
“A recent study in my office showed that more than 80% of financing from Chinese leasing companies is directed to the very large corporations. Smaller ones are left out. We must move towards new financing tools to push our shipping sector one step ahead.”
Mr. Antoniou emphasized that these conditions simultaneously create both challenges and unique opportunities for the maritime industry in this period of global restructuring and accelerated change.
“We have a unique opportunity to think about how to further increase the footprint of shipping in Greece and Europe.”
The conference was organized by the Fraternity of the Athenian Hydriots for the 16th consecutive year, bringing together the elite of Greek shipping. Special thanks were extended to the President of the Fraternity, Mr. Sachinis, for the excellent organization and the warm hospitality offered at his historic residence in Hydra.
Komvos warmly thanks Piraeus Bank for its support in the realization of the organization’s vision.
📹 Watch the full speech by Haris Antoniou here.
