Hunter Group posts Q3 profit, plans capital return amid strong market

Hunter Group ASA reported a net profit of $1.6m for Q3 2025, with average index-linked TC-out rates of $52,765 per day and 100% vessel utilization. The company also reported a cash and working capital position of $7.9m. Looking ahead, 62% of Q4 vessel days are already booked at $105,073 per day, while the spot market is currently at $150,407 per day.

The company plans to maximize shareholder value through capital returns, capitalizing on fundamentally strong market conditions. This outlook is supported by rising spot rates, increased demand for compliant vessels, and a projected global oil production surplus exceeding demand through 2026.

These favorable market dynamics are further bolstered by "negative" fleet growth, with a limited number of new VLCC deliveries expected in the first half of 2026. A significant portion of the existing fleet is old or operating in the "shadow market." Historical data indicates that periods of surplus production and inventory builds are favorable for VLCCs, reinforcing Hunter Group's positive market outlook.