Italy must revive sense of direction, Financial market manipulation

Italy must revive sense of direction, Financial market manipulation

Commentary: Italy must revive sense of direction

By Antonio Armellini in Rome

The reversal in relative strength of Italy’s two governing partners, Lega and the Five Star Movement, did not bring greater clarity, as they continue to move along parallel and apparently unconnected tracks. On the one hand, there is a dire economic situation. On the other hand, there is the issue of an early general election, which could at least give...

http://www.allaboutshipping.co.uk/2019/07/02/italy-must-revive-sense-of-direction-financial-market-manipulation/

LIBOR: Shipping’s elephant in the room

The shipping industry’s vessel loans are typically taken on the basis of a premium over LIBOR. LIBOR has been experiencing upward pressure since early 2017, as major central banks have moved to a tightening stance. The three-month LIBOR has risen to 2.3% as of April 2018, the highest rate seen since November 2008, the early days of the financial crisis.

As LIBOR increases, stresses on shipping industry balance sheets, cash flows and earnings also rise. With rates still at relatively low levels...

http://blogs.platts.com/2018/05/03/libor-shipping-elephant-in-the-room/