The impact of ETS for shipping companies is starting to hit. The steady upward trend of the price of an EUA through 2025 has alarmed some and proven a justification for those who bought early and secured positions. The “who”, “how” and “when” questions for EUA procurement have grown louder, as companies negotiate through charter parties, pass the full responsibility over, or decide themselves to buy and manage compliance in-house. Market commentators have proven largely accurate, predicting high €80 levels into the €90s for late Q4 2025 and early Q1 2026. But volatility in price movements is a factor. This year alone we have gone from €86 to €81 with spikes to €91.70 across 1 month of trading days. The difference in cost for 5,000 EUAs is significant to cash flow.
When we meet customers, we listen to their version of how 2025 played out, the strategy the tried for year 1 and what they may do in 2026 and beyond. There are no obvious patterns emerging. Our discussions allow us to share the knowledge we gain through day-to-day communications and assessment of market conditions.
FuelEU is a dominant topic now and the cost for compliance to that regulation. The ETS reporting year of 2026 requires 100% emissions to be covered. The bill is rising for shipping companies and the need for fast and effective solutions ever more crucial. We are meeting companies every day and demonstrating how Bridge Markets has key solutions for EU procurement. Look out for upcoming Webinars and guidance on EU ETS in 2026 from the Bridge team in coming months.