Global Ship Lease secures $1 billion syndicated loan linked to 15 new vessels

Global Ship Lease (GSL) announced a $1 billion syndicated loan from an eight‑bank group, including Bank of America as bookrunner. The seven‑year facility carries interest at SOFR + 1.5% and will be drawn in tranches as 15 newbuild ships are delivered between late 2028 and 2030. The CFO said the margin is 550 basis points lower than five years ago, reflecting cheaper financing for the company’s newbuilding program.

The lower‑cost, longer‑term debt reduces GSL’s financing expenses and de‑risks its new‑build schedule, strengthening its balance sheet and supporting future charter revenue. The facility also provides certainty of cash flow as draws are tied to vessel deliveries.

  • 1GSL agreed to a $1 billion loan facility.
  • 2The loan has a seven‑year term.
  • 3Interest is set at SOFR + 1.5%.
  • 4The facility is linked to the delivery of 15 newbuild containerships scheduled for late 2028 through 2030.
  • 5The syndicate comprises eight banks, with Bank of America acting as bookrunner, mandated lead arranger, facility and security agent.
  • 6GSL’s average charter term is 3.3 years on a TEU‑weighted basis (as of June 30, 2026).

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