The World’s largest shipbroker describes the development as a significant moment in its 163 year history, which includes 18 years as a public company.

Jeff Woyda, chief financial officer of Clarksons, says the elevation to the index is "very good news" that will open the company up to index tracking investors.

Woyda, speaking to TradeWinds from Dubai where Clarksons is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this week, said: “This is great news for the staff, great news for investors and great news for the industry.”

He