Greek shipowner Virginia Pappadakis is believed to have snapped up a Japanese-built capesize that will join the fleet of Kassian Maritime in a rising market.

The transaction shows stability in the value of capesize bulkers this year despite a significant upturn in rates, with the expectation of further strength to come.

Brokers say the shipowner has bought the 177,500-dwt Royal Chorale (built 2006) for about $22m.