Vangelis Marinakis' Capital Maritime has ordered its first newbuild bulk carriers in 15 years, in a development that could signal a lot for the industry, including positive prospects for growth in freight rates and values.

The order is for two Newcastlemax vessels and is estimated to be worth $150 million. According to VesselsValue, the last time Capital Maritime ordered a freighter was about 15 years ago. A market source estimates that a conventional newcastlemax is worth around $70 million (or around $83 million if equipped with LNG propulsion systems).