On Wednesday a leading European brokerage argued that the market for conventional types of tonnage, like tankers and bulkers, has been “relatively quiet” for the past few weeks.

While it’s not uncommon to see the pace of ordering slow as the New Year approaches, Fearnleys believes the current lull may be followed by a decline in newbuilding prices.

In a recent client briefing the firm acknowledged that prices at most Asian shipyards have been holding steady as of late but also noted sentiment is starting to deteriorate.

“Prices