Stolt-Nielsen’s chemical carrier operation Stolt Tankers has been tipped for bigger and bigger earnings this year as the effect of higher contract renewals creates a “positive snowball effect.”

This is the view of Norwegian investment bank Fearnley Securities, which has a “buy” rating on the Oslo-listed group.

Analyst Oystein Vaagen said higher rates secured in negotiations with shippers will kick in going forward, supporting earnings growth.