Top 10 Wealthiest Shipowners in the Global Maritime Industry

Table of Contents

• Overview: Billionaires Dominating Global Shipping

• Top 10 Wealthiest Shipowners in 2025

  • Klaus-Michael Kuehne – Kuehne + Nagel: $42.5 Billion

  • Rodolphe Saadé and Family – CMA CGM: $23.2 Billion

  • Gianluigi Aponte – MSC: $21 Billion

  • Eyal Ofer – Zodiac Maritime: $20.4 Billion

  • Idan Ofer – Quantum Pacific Shipping: $19.7 Billion

  • John Fredriksen – Frontline: $9.2 Billion

  • Maersk Family – A.P. Moller-Maersk Group: $6.1 Billion

  • Maria Angelicoussis – Angelicoussis Group: $5.8 Billion

  • Ali Riza Yildirim – Yildirim Holding: $3.4 Billion

  • Robert Yuksel Yildirim – CEO, Yildirim Holding: $3.4 Billion

• Comparison of Shipping Companies and its Net Worth

• The Timeless Legacy: Aristotle Onassis and Maritime Excellence

• The Evolution of Maritime Investment: From Exclusivity to Accessibility

• Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Maritime Excellence

• Shipfinex: Your Gateway to Ship ownership

• FAQs about Richest Shipping Company

Wealthiest Shipowners

Overview: Billionaires Dominating Global Shipping

In an industry valued well over a trillion dollars, silently orchestrating the movement of over 80% of global trade by volume, the shipping sector stands as a formidable force. It is a world where meticulous strategy meets immense capital, where geopolitical shifts can create fortunes, and where the relentless pulse of global demand dictates unparalleled wealth generation. Every ship, costing tens of millions, represents not just a vessel, but a strategic asset capable of generating substantial returns when market forces align.

Have you ever wondered who are the masterminds behind these vast fleets, the individuals who have amassed colossal fortunes by navigating the complexities of the world's oceans and supply chains?

The Shipping Industry is not merely a conduit for goods; it is a dynamic arena where economic foresight intersects with geopolitical acumen, shaping destinies and fortunes. This comprehensive guide for 2025 delves into the lives and strategic brilliance of the Top 10 Wealthiest Shipowners in the world. We will explore their immense financial stature, the strategic decisions that propelled them to the pinnacle of wealth, and the diverse ways they built their empires, revealing the true meaning of shipping industry billionaires who embody the very essence of global commerce.

The Foundation of Maritime Wealth: Understanding the Shipping Industry's Power

The shipping sector stands as one of the most capital-intensive yet rewarding industries in the world. Every container ship, oil tanker, or bulk carrier represents not just transportation capacity, but a strategic asset capable of generating substantial returns when market forces align favorably. This unique characteristic has created opportunities for visionary entrepreneurs to build massive fortunes through:

• Strategic fleet expansion during market downturns when vessel prices are low

• Diversification across shipping segments including containers, tankers, and specialized carriers

• Vertical integration encompassing logistics, ports, and supply chain management

• Geographic expansion to capitalize on emerging trade routes and markets

The Elite Circle: Top 10 Wealthiest Shipowners Shaping Global Commerce

1. Klaus-Michael Kuehne - The Logistics Visionary ($42.5 Billion)

At the pinnacle of maritime wealth stands Klaus-Michael Kuehne, whose $42.5 billion fortune represents the successful evolution of traditional shipping into comprehensive logistics solutions. As the heir to the Kuehne + Nagel legacy, he has transformed the company into an international powerhouse specializing in:

• Air and sea freight operations across six continents

• Advanced contract logistics and supply chain management

• Innovative road transport networks connecting maritime hubs

• Strategic investments in emerging logistics technologies

Kuehne's approach demonstrates how modern shipping magnates must think beyond vessels to encompass entire supply chain ecosystems. His significant philanthropic endeavors further reinforce his status as a maritime magnate of profound global influence.

2. Rodolphe Saadé and Family - Sustainability Leaders ($23.2 Billion)

The Saadé family's remarkable $23.2 billion wealth through CMA CGM represents a masterclass in combining environmental stewardship with exceptional profitability. As a French billionaire of extraordinary influence, Rodolphe Saadé has transformed CMA CGM from a regional player into a global giant in container transportation, proving that sustainable practices can drive unprecedented financial success.

Under Rodolphe Saadé's visionary leadership, CMA CGM has established itself as the industry's sustainability pioneer through comprehensive environmental initiatives:

Green Shipping Revolution:

• Pioneering alternative fuel technologies including hydrogen and ammonia-powered vessels

• Implementing carbon-neutral shipping solutions across major trade routes

• Investing billions in clean energy infrastructure and fuel transition programs

• Leading research initiatives for next-generation eco-friendly container ships

Strategic Global Expansion:

• Executing strategic acquisitions across emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America

• Building partnerships with major ports and logistics providers worldwide

• Developing integrated supply chain solutions spanning multiple continents

• Creating specialized shipping routes optimized for environmental efficiency

Operational and Technological Excellence:

• Implementing cutting-edge AI and IoT technologies for route optimization and fuel efficiency

• Deploying advanced logistics management systems for enhanced operational performance

• Investing in automated port operations and smart container tracking technologies

• Maintaining industry-leading safety standards while reducing environmental impact

Saadé's commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere compliance, positioning CMA CGM as a leader in the industry's critical drive toward decarbonization. His strategic vision demonstrates how modern shipping magnates can build enormous wealth while addressing global environmental challenges, setting new standards for responsible maritime leadership in the 21st century.

3. Gianluigi Aponte - The Container Revolution ($21 Billion)

Gianluigi Aponte's extraordinary journey from owning a single ship in 1970 to commanding the world's largest container line with $21.1 billion in wealth represents one of the most remarkable entrepreneurial success stories in maritime history. As the visionary founder and chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Aponte has demonstrated how strategic foresight, relentless determination, and adaptive leadership can transform a modest venture into a global shipping titan.

MSC's historic achievement of overtaking the long-established Maersk as the world's largest container line in 2023 stands as a testament to Aponte's revolutionary approach to the shipping industry. This milestone represents decades of calculated risk-taking and strategic brilliance that redefined container shipping economics.

Strategic Fleet Expansion Mastery:

• Executing aggressive vessel acquisitions during market downturns when ship prices were at historic lows

• Building one of the world's youngest and most efficient container fleets through strategic timing

• Investing in ultra-large container vessels (ULCV) to maximize economies of scale

• Maintaining optimal fleet utilization rates across diverse global trade routes

Strategic Alliance Development:

• Forging partnerships with major shipping lines to optimize route coverage and operational efficiency

• Building comprehensive logistics networks through strategic alliances with port operators worldwide

• Developing integrated supply chain solutions through partnerships with freight forwarders and logistics providers

• Creating synergistic relationships that enhance service offerings while reducing operational costs

Operational Excellence and Cost Leadership:

• Implementing industry-leading operational efficiency standards across all vessel operations

• Pioneering cost optimization strategies that maintain service quality while maximizing profitability

• Developing advanced fleet management systems for optimal route planning and fuel efficiency

• Establishing standardized operational procedures that ensure consistent service delivery globally

Innovation in Maritime Technology:

• Leading innovation in container ship design with focus on capacity optimization and fuel efficiency

• Pioneering advanced port operations technology for faster cargo handling and reduced turnaround times

• Investing in digital transformation initiatives including AI-driven logistics optimization

• Developing next-generation container tracking and supply chain visibility solutions

Aponte's visionary leadership continues to drive MSC's expansion into new markets and service segments, demonstrating that the potential for immense wealth generation in the shipping industry remains limitless for those with the strategic acumen to capitalize on global trade opportunities.

4. Eyal Ofer - Maritime Diversification Master ($20.4 Billion)

Eyal Ofer, commanding the Zodiac Group with an impressive $20.4 billion fortune, represents the pinnacle of strategic diversification in global maritime business. His extraordinary journey exemplifies how entrepreneurial vision can transcend traditional shipping boundaries to create a multifaceted empire spanning maritime operations, luxury real estate, and strategic investments across multiple continents.

As chairman of Zodiac Maritime, Ofer has demonstrated exceptional leadership in transforming the company into one of the world's most respected maritime organizations. His strategic approach combines deep industry knowledge with innovative business models that have consistently outperformed market expectations.

Maritime Fleet Excellence:

• Managing one of the world's most diverse and technologically advanced shipping fleets

• Operating across multiple shipping segments including tankers, bulk carriers, and container vessels

• Implementing cutting-edge vessel management systems for optimal operational efficiency

• Maintaining industry-leading safety standards while maximizing fleet utilization rates

Strategic Market Navigation:

• Demonstrating remarkable ability to anticipate and capitalize on maritime market cycles

• Successfully navigating complex geopolitical challenges affecting global shipping routes

• Building strategic partnerships with major oil companies, commodity traders, and logistics providers

• Adapting fleet composition and deployment strategies based on evolving market conditions

Global Real Estate Empire:

• Expanding influence through Global Holdings Group with investments in premium properties worldwide

• Developing iconic real estate projects in major metropolitan centers including London, New York, and Tel Aviv

• Creating synergies between maritime operations and strategic real estate investments

• Building long-term value through diversified property portfolios in prime global locations

Philanthropic Leadership and Social Impact:

• Establishing comprehensive philanthropic programs focused on education, healthcare, and maritime safety

• Supporting maritime industry development through educational initiatives and research funding

• Contributing to community development projects in key operational regions

• Demonstrating commitment to sustainable business practices and environmental responsibility

Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management:

• Diversifying wealth across multiple asset classes including private equity, venture capital, and public markets

• Strategic investments in technology companies revolutionizing maritime and logistics industries

• Building long-term partnerships with institutional investors and family offices globally

• Maintaining optimal risk-adjusted returns through sophisticated portfolio management

Ofer's holistic approach to wealth creation demonstrates how modern shipping magnates can build sustainable fortunes by combining maritime expertise with strategic diversification, creating value that extends far beyond traditional shipping operations while maintaining a strong commitment to social responsibility and industry leadership.

5. Idan Ofer - Technology and Sustainability Pioneer ($19.7 Billion)

Idan Ofer, commanding a substantial fortune of $19.7 billion as the driving force behind Quantum Pacific Shipping, represents the next generation of maritime leadership that seamlessly blends traditional shipping expertise with cutting-edge innovation. As the brother of fellow shipping magnate Eyal Ofer, Idan has carved his own distinctive path in the maritime industry, establishing himself as a visionary leader who understands that the future of shipping lies in technological advancement and environmental stewardship.

Strategic Maritime Investments:

• Leading strategic investments across diverse shipping companies and maritime technology firms

• Building comprehensive portfolios that span traditional shipping and emerging maritime technologies

• Developing long-term partnerships with innovative startups revolutionizing ocean transportation

• Creating synergistic investment strategies that maximize returns while driving industry transformation

Technological Innovation Leadership:

• Pioneering implementation of AI-driven fleet management systems for optimal route optimization

• Investing heavily in autonomous shipping technologies and digital maritime solutions

• Developing advanced data analytics platforms for predictive maintenance and operational efficiency

• Leading research initiatives in blockchain applications for supply chain transparency and security

Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability:

• Championing the adoption of alternative fuel technologies including hydrogen and ammonia propulsion systems

• Implementing comprehensive carbon reduction strategies across all maritime operations

• Investing in clean energy infrastructure for ports and shipping facilities

• Establishing industry partnerships focused on achieving net-zero emissions targets

Idan Ofer's strategic approach demonstrates how modern shipping billionaires can build immense wealth while addressing the industry's most pressing challenges, proving that technological innovation and environmental responsibility are not just ethical imperatives but also powerful drivers of long-term profitability and sustainable growth in the maritime sector.

6. John Fredriksen - The Tanker Market Master ($9.2 Billion)

John Fredriksen, with his impressive $9.2 billion fortune built through Frontline Ltd, stands as the undisputed master of the volatile tanker shipping sector. Known for his legendary ability to thrive in one of the shipping industry's most unpredictable segments, Fredriksen has consistently demonstrated that exceptional wealth can be generated through strategic mastery of oil transportation markets.

Market Timing Expertise:

• Demonstrating unparalleled ability to capitalize on oil market fluctuations and shipping cycle patterns

• Executing strategic fleet expansion during market downturns when vessel values reach historic lows

• Timing charter rate negotiations to maximize profitability during peak demand periods

• Anticipating geopolitical events that impact global oil transportation routes and pricing

Fleet Optimization Strategies:

• Implementing dynamic vessel acquisition and disposal strategies based on real-time market conditions

• Maintaining optimal fleet age profiles through strategic vessel renewal programs

• Diversifying tanker types across crude oil, product tankers, and specialized chemical carriers

• Maximizing fleet utilization through sophisticated route planning and cargo optimization

Innovation and Risk Management:

• Pioneering innovative chartering strategies that challenge traditional industry practices

• Developing sophisticated risk management frameworks for volatile commodity and shipping markets

• Successfully navigating complex geopolitical challenges affecting global oil trade routes

• Building resilient business models that generate profits across diverse market cycles

Fredriksen's remarkable success in the tanker sector demonstrates how deep market expertise, combined with calculated risk-taking and innovative strategies, can create substantial wealth even in the shipping industry's most challenging segments.

7. The Maersk Family - Century-Long Legacy ($6.1 Billion)

The Maersk family's remarkable $6.1 billion wealth through A.P. Moller-Maersk Group represents more than a century of unparalleled maritime leadership, establishing them as true pioneers who fundamentally transformed global commerce since their founding in 1904. Their extraordinary legacy demonstrates how visionary thinking, combined with adaptive leadership across multiple generations, can build enduring wealth that withstands the test of time.

Containerization Revolution:

• Pioneering the modern containerization system that revolutionized global shipping efficiency

• Developing standardized container sizes and handling systems adopted worldwide

• Creating integrated port-to-port container transportation networks that accelerated international trade

• Establishing container shipping as the backbone of modern global commerce and supply chains

Adaptive Multi-Generational Leadership:

• Successfully navigating through two world wars, economic depressions, and multiple industry transformations

• Demonstrating exceptional ability to reinvent business strategies across changing market conditions

• Maintaining family leadership continuity while adapting to evolving global business environments

• Building resilient corporate structures that thrive through diverse economic cycles

Technology Innovation and Global Integration:

• Consistently investing in cutting-edge shipping technologies including automated port systems and digital logistics platforms

• Developing comprehensive end-to-end logistics networks that span every major continent and trade route

• Pioneering integrated supply chain solutions that connect maritime shipping with land-based transportation

• Leading digital transformation initiatives that optimize global cargo movement and supply chain visibility

The Maersk family's century-long success exemplifies how sustained innovation, strategic adaptation, and commitment to excellence can create lasting maritime empires that define entire industries.

8. Maria Angelicoussis - Specialized Shipping Excellence ($5.8 Billion)

Maria Angelicoussis commands an extraordinary maritime empire worth $7.56 billion, establishing her as Greece's wealthiest individual and a transformative force in global shipping. Her Angelicoussis Group represents one of the world's largest private shipping companies, operating approximately 140 vessels with a gross value of $17 billion through strategic subsidiaries including Maran Gas, Maran Tankers, and Anangel Maritime.

Strategic Fleet Diversification:

• Commanding comprehensive maritime operations spanning bulk carriers, crude oil tankers, and specialized LNG vessels

• Pioneering integrated liquid cargo transportation networks serving global energy markets

• Establishing dominant positions in both traditional shipping and emerging clean energy transport sectors

Operational Excellence and Market Leadership:

• Demonstrating exceptional navigation through volatile shipping cycles and global supply chain disruptions

• Building resilient business models that capitalize on freight rate fluctuations and market opportunities

• Maintaining operational efficiency standards that define industry benchmarks for large-scale maritime operations

Her visionary leadership exemplifies how strategic diversification and operational mastery create enduring maritime dynasties in the modern global economy.

9. Ali Riza Yildirim - Yildirim Holding ($3.4 Billion)

Ali Riza Yildirim's commanding $3.4 billion Meet the Richest Greek Woman: Doctor, Shipowner of 145 Vessels, and $6.4 Billion Net Worth Rivaling Kardashian - fortune exemplifies strategic maritime investment, transforming both his Turkish conglomerate and CMA CGM through visionary financial intervention. When CMA CGM faced bankruptcy approximately 14 years ago, Yildirim Holding's decisive $500 million investment secured a 24% stake that now anchors a global maritime empire.

Transformative Strategic Partnership:

• Orchestrating CMA CGM's resurrection from near-collapse to becoming the world's third-largest container shipping company

• Converting crisis-level investment into cornerstone asset worth $6.7 billion, demonstrating exceptional maritime market timing

• Establishing Yildirim as a pivotal force in European-Asian trade routes through strategic alliance

Diversified Global Operations:

• Commanding integrated operations across 56 countries spanning commodities production, port terminals, and chemical manufacturing

• Building comprehensive supply chain ecosystems connecting maritime transport with ammonia and urea production facilities

• Pioneering multi-sector synergies that leverage shipping investments across fertilizer, mining, and energy industries

His transformative approach demonstrates how strategic crisis intervention and patient capital deployment create enduring maritime wealth across multiple continents.

10. Robert Yuksel Yildirim - CEO, Yildirim Holding ($3.4 Billion)

Robert Yuksel Yildirim's commanding $3.4 billion fortune exemplifies engineering-driven entrepreneurship transforming global maritime and industrial landscapes. Born in Turkey in 1960, his mechanical engineering education from Istanbul Technical University and Oregon State University provided the technical foundation for building one of the world's most diversified conglomerates.

Engineering Excellence to Maritime Mastery:

• Beginning career as design engineer at container crane manufacturer Paceco Corporation, leveraging technical expertise to understand port infrastructure fundamentals

• Transforming CMA CGM investment into strategic port terminal empire through Yilport Holdings, becoming fastest-growing international terminal operator globally

• Building integrated maritime-industrial ecosystems spanning high-carbon ferrochrome production, chrome ore mining, and comprehensive port operations

Strategic Global Diversification:

• Commanding operations across 56 countries, demonstrating exceptional ability to navigate diverse regulatory and economic environments

• Investing $2 billion in nickel mining acquisitions, positioning for future commodity market rebounds and supply chain security

• Pioneering multi-sector synergies connecting mining, shipping, port operations, and industrial manufacturing across continents

His engineering background and entrepreneurial vision create enduring value through technical innovation and strategic global expansion.

Special Mention: Aristotle Onassis A name synonymous with maritime brilliance, Aristotle Onassis played a pivotal role in reshaping Greek ship ownership in the aftermath of World War II. With astute foresight, he capitalized on the war's aftermath to acquire surplus vessels at reduced prices, building a formidable shipping empire. His net worth at its zenith reached $2 billion USD, which, adjusted for inflation to 2025, could be substantially higher, possibly around $6-7 billion USD.

Onassis introduced innovative ship designs, including groundbreaking supertankers, setting new standards for efficiency and capacity. His legacy endures as an emblem of entrepreneurial excellence in the shipping industry history.

Comparison of Shipping Companies and its Net Worth

Rank	Name	Company	Net Worth	Key Contribution
1	Klaus-Michael Kuehne	Kuehne + Nagel	$42.5 Billion	Global logistics leader in air, sea, and contract freight
2	Rodolphe Saadé & Family	CMA CGM	$23.2 Billion	CEO of CMA CGM; driving force behind its global expansion and green shipping initiatives
3	Gianluigi Aponte	Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)	$21.1 Billion	Founder of MSC, the world’s largest container line
4	Eyal Ofer	Zodiac Maritime	$20.4 Billion	Major player in shipping and global real estate investments
5	Idan Ofer	Quantum Pacific Shipping	$19.7 Billion	Strategic investor in shipping with focus on innovation and sustainability
6	John Fredriksen	Frontline Ltd.	$9.2 Billion	Leading tanker shipping magnate with strong market foresight
7	Maersk Family	A.P. Moller-Maersk Group	$6.1 Billion	Generational leadership in global shipping and pioneers of containerization
8	Maria Angelicoussis	Angelicoussis Group	$5.8 Billion	Leads one of the largest privately-owned fleets, including LNG and tanker vessels
9	Ali Riza Yildirim	Yildirim Holding	$3.4 Billion	Key investor who helped save CMA CGM; expanded into global maritime and industrial sectors
10	Robert Yuksel Yildirim	Yildirim Holding (CEO)	$3.4 Billion	CEO driving growth in shipping, mining, and port operations across 56 countries

The Timeless Legacy: Aristotle Onassis and Maritime Excellence

No discussion of shipping wealth would be complete without acknowledging Aristotle Onassis, whose $2 billion fortune (equivalent to $6-7 billion today) was built through:

• Post-war opportunity recognition: Acquiring surplus vessels at reduced prices after World War II

• Innovation leadership: Introducing groundbreaking supertanker designs

• Strategic foresight: Capitalizing on global economic recovery and trade expansion

• Greek shipping renaissance: Helping establish Greece as a maritime powerhouse
  

The Evolution of Maritime Investment: From Exclusivity to Accessibility

Historically, the shipping industry has been an exclusive club where entry required millions in capital investment. However, the landscape is rapidly evolving through:

Traditional Barriers

• High capital requirements: Individual ships costing tens of millions of dollars

• Complex market knowledge: Understanding global trade patterns and shipping cycles

• Operational expertise: Managing international fleets and regulatory compliance

• Market volatility: Navigating unpredictable economic and geopolitical factors

Emerging Opportunities

• Asset tokenization: Breaking down ownership barriers through blockchain technology

• Fractional ownership: Allowing smaller investors to participate in maritime investments

• Technology platforms: Providing transparent access to shipping investment opportunities

• Democratized access: Making the trillion-dollar maritime industry accessible to broader investor bases
  

The Future of Maritime Wealth: Sustainability and Technology

As we look toward the future, the next generation of shipping billionaires will likely emerge from those who successfully navigate:

• Environmental regulations: Leading the transition to sustainable shipping practices

• Digital transformation: Implementing AI, IoT, and automation technologies

• Alternative fuels: Pioneering hydrogen, ammonia, and other clean energy solutions

• Supply chain integration: Building comprehensive end-to-end logistics capabilities
  

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Maritime Excellence

The stories of these ten wealthiest shipowners demonstrate that maritime wealth creation requires a unique combination of strategic vision, operational excellence, and adaptive leadership. From Klaus-Michael Kuehne's $42.5 billion logistics empire to the Yildirim family's strategic investment success, each journey offers valuable insights into building sustainable fortunes in global commerce.

As the shipping industry continues evolving with new technologies and investment models, the barriers to entry are gradually lowering. The emergence of platforms offering fractional ownership and asset tokenization suggests that the immense wealth generation historically reserved for a select few may soon inspire a new generation of maritime investors.

The trillion-dollar shipping industry remains one of the most powerful wealth creation engines in the global economy, and those who understand its complexities and opportunities will continue to reap unprecedented rewards in the years ahead.

Shipfinex: Your Gateway to Ship ownership

At Shipfinex, we are revolutionizing the way ship ownership works, making it accessible to a broader base of investors. We believe that the immense wealth generation seen by these richest shipping billionaires can now inspire a new generation of participants. By leveraging asset tokenization and fractional ownership, we are breaking down the historical capital barriers that have gated this lucrative asset class.

Our platform enables you to own a piece of a real, revenue-generating ship, providing secure, transparent, and accessible entry into the trillion-dollar maritime industry. You no longer need millions in the bank to partake in this powerful global sector.

FAQs about Richest Shipping Company

Who are some of the wealthiest shipowners in the world in 2025?

As of 2025, prominent wealthy shipowners include Klaus-Michael Kuehne, Rodolphe Saadé and family (CMA CGM), Gianluigi Aponte (MSC), Eyal Ofer (Zodiac Maritime), Idan Ofer (Quantum Pacific Shipping), and John Fredriksen (Frontline), among others.

How did these shipowners build their massive fortunes?

Their wealth was built through strategic fleet expansion, astute market timing, pioneering new technologies (e.g., containerization), vertical integration in logistics, aggressive acquisitions, diversification into related sectors (e.g., ports, real estate, energy), and navigating market cycles with resilience.

What makes the shipping industry so profitable for its owners?

The shipping industry is highly profitable due to its indispensable role in global trade (carrying 80%+ of goods), the vast scale of operations, the ability to capitalize on fluctuating freight rates, and economies of scale achieved through larger vessels and efficient logistics networks.

What is the net worth of the richest shipowners?

As of recent reports, the wealth of the top shipowners can range from several billion dollars to over $40 billion, reflecting their significant control over global commerce.

How can an individual become a shipowner without a massive fortune?

Traditionally requiring millions, becoming a shipowner is now more accessible through innovative models like fractional ownership and asset tokenization, offered by platforms like Shipfinex, which allow individuals to own shares in physical vessels.