Skuld CEO Ståle Hansen calls for greater shipping industry collaboration

Skuld CEO Ståle Hansen has called for stronger cooperation among shipping industry stakeholders to address geopolitical uncertainty, decarbonisation challenges, cyber risks and the evolving regulatory landscape ahead of Nor-Shipping 2027, scheduled for 7-11 June in Oslo and Lillestrøm, Norway.

In a press feature published on 12 November, Hansen highlighted the importance of collaboration in an increasingly fragmented global environment, arguing that the shipping industry must rely on its interconnected structure to address challenges that cannot be resolved independently.

“Collaboration,” Hansen stated, “is the foundation shipping has been built on… and it remains its greatest strength.”

Hansen acknowledged the growing uncertainties facing the maritime sector, including geopolitical tensions, potential disruptions to international trade, regulatory fragmentation, cybercrime and the implications of artificial intelligence. However, he said the industry continues to demonstrate a willingness to strengthen cross-border relationships and develop collective responses.

Skuld reports growth across its global operations

Hansen said Skuld has recorded growth across several business areas, including revenues, Protection and Indemnity (P&I) tonnage, commercial gross premiums and employee numbers.

Commercial gross premiums now account for approximately 50% of the company’s business, while its workforce has grown to more than 360 employees across 11 international offices.

He also pointed to the mutual insurance model as an example of established cooperation within shipping. The system, developed by shipowners to share risks and pool resources against liabilities, continues to insure close to 90% of the global fleet.

The International Group of P&I Clubs is also processing the membership application of China Shipowners Mutual Assurance Association (CPI), which could become its first Chinese member.

According to Hansen, cooperation is extending beyond marine insurance, with shipowners and other stakeholders increasingly looking to facilitate trade, adopt low-emission technologies and address emerging operational risks.

He also noted that digitalisation presents opportunities to improve operational efficiency, strengthen risk awareness and reduce incidents, despite the associated cybersecurity challenges.

Skuld expands partnerships supporting maritime decarbonisation

Skuld is involved in several industry partnerships focused on maritime development, risk management and the energy transition.

These include collaborations with the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Centre for Zero Carbon Shipping, BIMCO, Cefor, the Norwegian R&D Centre for Maritime Energy Transition (FME MarTrans), Maritime Battery Forum and the Green Shipping Programme.

The company also works with the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), through which it participates in discussions on industry transformation and the role of different stakeholders in driving change.

Hansen said Skuld’s access to maritime data and its relationships with shipowners provide opportunities to support the adoption of alternative fuels, green technologies and other decarbonisation measures.

The company works directly with clients to assess their individual requirements while also sharing operational insights and industry knowledge through partnerships and sector events.

“Through relationships with bodies such as SMI, and events such as Nor-Shipping, we can share the data and insights we have with the wider shipping community, and beyond,” Hansen said.

He added that sharing experience from individual projects and technological developments could help other stakeholders make informed decisions and accelerate the adoption of new solutions across the industry.

Skuld continues as Leading Partner for Nor-Shipping 2027

Skuld will continue as a Leading Partner of Nor-Shipping 2027, which will take place from 7 to 11 June in Oslo and Lillestrøm.

Hansen described the event as an important platform for bringing together shipowners, technology providers, policymakers and other maritime stakeholders to discuss industry developments and build partnerships.

He said large-scale industry gatherings are necessary to facilitate knowledge exchange and collective approaches to challenges associated with shipping’s transition.

The 2027 edition will also coincide with the 130th anniversary of Skuld, marking 130 years since the organisation was established.

Reflecting on the company’s history, Hansen said its ability to adapt to changing industry conditions and maintain relationships with partners has been central to its continued operations.

“We’ve been here for a very long time,” he said, “and we’ve seen a lot of challenges, and a lot of change. Yet through it all Skuld, and this industry as a whole, has sailed onwards by adapting, delivering value and working closely with partners to build connections. The times may have changed, but the commitment hasn’t.”

He reiterated that cooperation will remain important as the maritime sector navigates geopolitical uncertainty, technological developments and the transition towards lower-emission shipping.

FAQs

Who is Ståle Hansen?

Ståle Hansen is the CEO of Skuld, a marine insurance provider offering protection and indemnity and other insurance services to the shipping industry.

When will Nor-Shipping 2027 take place?

Nor-Shipping 2027 is scheduled for 7-11 June 2027 in Oslo and Lillestrøm, Norway.

What is Skuld’s role at Nor-Shipping 2027?

Skuld will continue as a Leading Partner of Nor-Shipping 2027, supporting the event’s role as a platform for maritime industry collaboration and knowledge exchange.

What is Skuld’s contribution to maritime decarbonisation?

Skuld works with shipowners and industry organisations on alternative fuels, green technologies and decarbonisation initiatives, providing risk-related insights, advisory support and industry knowledge.

How many years will Skuld complete in 2027?

Skuld will mark its 130th anniversary in 2027.