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GLNG Acquires Vessel for Fourth FLNG Project, Targeting 2029 Delivery

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Key Takeaways

  • Golar acquires Grace Dahlia for conversion into FLNG #4, offering 20% more storage than FLNG Esperanza.
  • FLNG #4's larger capacity & repeat MKII design aim to boost offloading flexibility & efficiency.
  • Scheduled for 2029 redelivery, FLNG #4 supports GLNG's growth plans amid conversion and contract risks.

Golar LNG’s (GLNG - Free Report) acquisition of the Grace Dahlia marks an important milestone in advancing its fourth floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) project. The 2013-built LNG carrier will be converted into FLNG #4, featuring approximately 20% greater storage capacity than the 3.5 MTPA FLNG Esperanza currently under construction. This expansion strengthens Golar’s ability to offer more flexible LNG production and offloading solutions to prospective customers.

The larger storage capacity could enhance the commercial appeal of FLNG #4 by providing customers with greater offloading flexibility while allowing Golar to retain the advantages of its repeat MKII design. Converting the vessel alongside FLNG Esperanza at CIMC Raffles’ Yantai shipyard in China may also support execution efficiencies through shared expertise and standardized design elements.

With redelivery scheduled for 2029, FLNG #4 is positioned to address future demand for floating LNG infrastructure, with Golar highlighting its expected availability as a competitive advantage. Overall, the acquisition supports Golar’s long-term growth strategy and strengthens its position in the global FLNG market, although project execution, conversion costs and securing commercial contracts will remain key factors in determining its ultimate financial returns.

Golar’s Share Price Performance

GLNG’s shares have gained 21.4% over the past year compared with the Oil and Gas - Integrated - International industry’s 49.3% growth.

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GLNG’s Zacks Rank

GLNG currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Stocks to Consider

Investors interested in the Zacks Transportation sector may consider better-ranked stocks like International Seaways (INSW - Free Report) and Herc Holdings (HRI - Free Report) .

INSW currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

INSW has an expected earnings growth rate of more than 100% for 2026. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 34%.

Herc Holdings currently flaunts a Zacks Rank #1.

HRI has a negative expected earnings growth rate of 7.36% for the current year. However, the company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 60.64%.

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