Low-key shipowners Order Shipping and British Bulkers have made their first ship acquisitions in years to replace older handysize tonnage, in a conservative move that highlights Greeks' reluctance to increase their exposure to the sector.

Several brokers report that Order Shipping has purchased the 28,400-dwt Gloria Island (built 2012) for between $10m and $10.3m. Others say that compatriot British Bulkers picked up the sistership Bright Rainbow (built 2013) for $12m.