Episode 45. Michelle Wiese Bockmann, Sr. Editor and Analyst - Lloyd's List and Lloyds List Intelligence
In this episode, we dive into the world of the maritime shipping industry's "dark/grey fleet" with Michelle Wiese Bockmann, senior analyst for Lloyd’s List Intelligence, and markets editor Lloyd’s List. We discusses the origins and growth of the dark fleet, the geopolitical events contributing to its expansion, and the subsequent challenges in tracking these vessels. We talk about the digital tools that are now at her disposal to shed light on thos ships that rather stay dark. A spotlight is cast on the human cost of these unregulated operations through a discussion about a recent tragic incident. Finally, Michelle emphasizes the need for the maritime industry to better promote itself and work towards more diversity. Why you should listen: 1. The "dark fleet" represents a significant portion of the international fleet, operating outside regulatory frameworks and posing numerous risks. 2. Iran's evasion tactics laid the foundation for the dark fleet, but the Russian invasion of Ukraine caused a significant surge in its size. 3. A discussion of the methodology used to track the dark fleet and discusses the challenges introduced by Russia's involvement. 4. She elaborates on how geopolitical changes like the invasion of Ukraine have shifted global trade lanes, with an increased global distribution of Russian diesel. 5. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for diversity and better self-promotion in the maritime industry. Guest Bio Michelle Wiese Bockmann is a senior analyst for Lloyd’s List Intelligence, and markets editor Lloyd’s List, one of the world's oldest continuously-running journals, providing news for the shipping industry.