Gateway concludes refinancing package

Although the container leasing industry is continuing to benefit from strong market conditions, rising container prices have brought about new challenges. New standard box prices have soared by more than 50 per cent since late 2003 and, despite some weakening in the third quarter, look set to hold at close to their current high level – at or a little below US$1900 per 20ft ex-works from most locations in China – for the foreseeable future. This compares with below US$1350 in the fourth quarter o

The sudden rapid escalation in container prices has presented leasing companies with some tricky decisions to make over how much new equipment they should buy, and when – always assuming production is available in the first place

Notwithstanding one major storm cloud gathering on the horizon, the outlook for the container leasing industry this year would appear extremely bright

After enduring a very tough year in 2001, the container leasing industry has witnessed a significant upturn in the market in the first six months of this year.

Gateway Container International has engaged JP Morgan Chase and Fortis Bank NV as financial advisers to assist in the implementation of its strategy to replace its current revolving debt facilities with term financing through an asset-backed securitisation.

Gateway Container has launched a new website, GatewayContainer .com to provide shipping lines and depots with instant access to continually updated information regarding their container inventory.