Greek owners in $6bn record newbuild spree.

(From Lloyds List)

Byline: Nigel Lowry in Athens

AFTER a slow start to the year Greek shipowners have placed orders for new ships worth record amounts in the first half.

In total the country's owners ordered 103 ships costing more than $6bn in the first six months, according to monthly reports issued by leading Greek newbuilding broker George Moundreas ' Co. In addition, the contracts provided for 22 options.

The figures, which are subject to confirmation in an expected half-year round-up of contract- ing activity from the same shipbroking firm, dwarf last year's investments.

During the whole of last year Greeks were estimated to …