The arrangement means that registered ICS Students, as well as Members (MICS) and Fellows (FICS) of the institute will have free and full access to the Shipnext platform for one year. Shipnext offers a comprehensive suite of digital solutions which include instant data and email processing, freight-matching, freight tendering and chartering, contract management, digital documentation flow, Customer Relationship Management and transportation management tools.

Commenting on the agreement, Glenn Murphy, chairman of the ICS, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with Shipnext to provide our students and members with access to cutting-edge technology that will undoubtedly bolster their education by providing them access to a rich content of real-time shipping market data. This partnership exemplifies our continued commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in the maritime sector.”

Alexander Varvarenko, founder and CEO of Shipnext, was equally enthusiastic about the deal. “A Fellow of the Institute myself, I have fond memories of beginning my own journey in shipping with the ICS,” he said. “Fast forward to today and, as an innovator in the space, I feel it is important to support the international broker community in the transition to a smarter, more efficient way of doing business.”

He added: “This collaboration between the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers and Shipnext represents a significant step forward in equipping aspiring and established professionals in the shipping industry with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their careers. It underscore the commitment of both organisations to foster innovation and facilitate growth within the maritime sector.”

It needs to be noted that students, members and fellows of the ICS wishing to register for free access to Shipnext need to use the ics@shipnext.com web link.