Expectations are growing for a return of dividend payments at Odfjell following its stronger financial footing.

Oslo-listed Odfjell last week announced plans to grow its fleet to 100 ships as it reported a stronger than expected fourth quarter performance.

Odfjell paid a semi-annual dividend regularly up until 2009 but last paid out to shareholders in 2011.

With the company’s balance sheet now much improved, analysts believe 2017 could be the year dividend payments resume.