Petrofin Research has released its latest ranking of the world’s Top 40 ship-finance banks, revealing a renewed expansion in global bank lending to shipping.

At the end of 2025, the Top 40 banks held combined shipping portfolios of US$300.6 billion, up 6% from US$283.6 billion a year earlier. BNP Paribas retained the top position, while no major bank withdrew from ship finance during the year—an important indication of strengthening lender confidence in the maritime sector.

Europe continued to represent 50.4% of the Top 40 portfolios, but the balance is shifting. Japanese banks increased their share from 22% to 26%, Scandinavian lending rose by 16.2%, and Greek banks expanded their shipping portfolios by an impressive 37%.

The ranking confirms that capital is returning to shipping, supported by strong owner liquidity, rising vessel values and growing newbuilding-finance requirements.
Competition among lenders is also intensifying. Financing terms are becoming more favourable to borrowers, although banks remain selective—focusing on financially strong owners, resilient cash flows, quality assets and credible decarbonisation strategies.

More capital is available, but the real competition is for bankable owners and future-proof vessels.