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Demand for dry bulk carriers has strengthened significantly through the first seven months of 2026, with vessel sale and purchase activity pointing to growing confidence in the sector. According to shipbroker Xclusiv, 496 bulk carriers changed hands during the period, up 16% from 428 vessels during the same period last year. Activity has been particularly […]

Oil prices have remained below their recent highs despite growing doubts that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen quickly. Brent crude rose toward $88 per barrel this week, but remains well below the $100-plus levels reached during the latest surge as markets continue to price in the possibility of a near-term agreement. That optimism could

Far East container shipping rates are beginning to soften after months of dramatic increases, with further declines expected through August. However, rates are falling much more slowly than they rose, leaving carriers with strong pricing levels even as market conditions begin to shift. Since the start of the Iran crisis in late February, spot rates

The global crude tanker market is experiencing an unprecedented wave of newbuilding activity, with owners placing record numbers of orders for new vessels. Strong freight earnings, an aging global fleet, and continued geopolitical uncertainty are driving operators to invest in modern tonnage despite high construction costs and delivery schedules stretching several years into the future.

The shipping industry’s transition to lower-carbon fuels continues to face significant challenges as regulatory timelines shift and global emissions rules become increasingly fragmented. With the International Maritime Organization delaying its Net-Zero Framework by a year, shipowners are now navigating an uncertain landscape where regional regulations and fuel requirements vary widely. Rather than slowing investment, the

A newly announced U.S.–Iran agreement aims to end months of conflict around the Strait of Hormuz and reopen one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. Maritime organizations caution, however, that a return to normal shipping, and to pre-war fuel prices, will take time. Under the deal, both sides have committed to a 60-day ceasefire,

Global Bunker Market Stabilizes in Week 20 as Scrubber Economics Stay Attractive The global bunker market showed signs of stabilization during Week 20, with narrower price swings compared to recent weeks despite continued mixed movements across major fuel grades. Overall volatility remains present, but the market appears to be entering a more controlled phase. By

Demand for low-carbon shipping options appears to be cooling as cargo owners become more cost-sensitive in today’s volatile global market. While decarbonization remains a long-term priority, many shippers are showing less willingness to pay a premium for greener transport in the near term. Recent survey findings suggest that the average willingness to pay for low-carbon

The U.S. finished lubricants market is seeing another round of sharp price increases, as suppliers respond to sustained inflation in base oils, feedstocks, and additive components, along with continued supply chain disruption. Following JobbersWorld’s recent report on broadening market adjustments, Phillips 66 has issued notice of an additional lubricant price increase of up to 35%,