The past year’s renewed focus on bolstering American shipbuilding capacity inspired a slew of shipping deals and investments. Interestingly, the most active players came from outside of the U.S., looking to U.S. taxpayers to foot the shipbuilding bill.  

Marine Money Week 2025 was, as always, the singular occasion in shipping to reconnect with global friends in the industry and synthesize perspectives on shipping’s next big area of opportunity–U.S. shipping stood out this year.

Stating the obvious: the U.S. wants more American-built ships. Less obvious: how many ships can America’s biggest shipyards build? 

While the panel acknowledged the rough seas ahead, there was consensus that the increased attention the shipping industry is receiving today is a positive indicator for attracting long-term investor interest and capital into the sector.

Polarizing legislation like the Jones Act can make for unlikely allies.