BlackRock Considers Bid for Maher Terminals in New York

World's largest asset manager may partner with MSC to acquire busiest container terminal at leading US East Coast port

Feb. 6, 2026 at 2:07pm

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According to sources, BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, is considering partnering with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world's biggest container line, to purchase Maher Terminals, the busiest container terminal at the Port of New York and New Jersey. Maher Terminals handles over a third of all container traffic through the port complex.

Why it matters

This potential acquisition would consolidate control over critical maritime infrastructure at a major US East Coast port under two of the largest players in the global shipping industry. It raises questions about market concentration, competition, and the influence of large investment firms in the transportation sector.

The details

Maher Terminals, which is currently owned by Australian investment firm Macquarie Group, processed over 3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) out of the port's total 8.7 million TEUs in 2024, making it the busiest terminal at the Port of New York and New Jersey. Macquarie acquired a controlling stake in Maher from Deutsche Bank in 2016. Other companies reportedly interested in acquiring Maher include Hapag-Lloyd, PSA International, and DP World.

  • Macquarie Group recently signed a 33-year lease extension for Maher Terminals through 2063.
  • Macquarie's stake in Maher is through its private infrastructure fund Macquarie Infrastructure Partners III, which is set to end its term in 2030.

The players

BlackRock

The world's largest asset manager, with $11-$12 trillion under management.

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)

The world's biggest container line, controlled by the Aponte family out of Geneva.

Maher Terminals

The busiest container terminal at the Port of New York and New Jersey, handling over a third of the port's total container traffic.

Macquarie Group

The Australian investment firm that acquired a controlling interest in Maher Terminals from Deutsche Bank in 2016.

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The agency that oversees the Port of New York and New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This potential deal highlights the growing influence of large investment firms and ocean carriers in controlling critical maritime infrastructure at major US ports, raising concerns about market concentration and the long-term implications for competition and pricing in the shipping industry.