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More than seven months into the war on Iran, shipping companies are changing how and where they purchase marine fuel. With bunker prices remaining more than 70% above pre-conflict levels, operators are increasingly relying on spot purchases, shorter-term contracts and alternative bunkering locations to manage costs and reduce exposure to market volatility. Rather than committing

Marine fuel prices have surged since the outbreak of the U.S.-Iran war on February 28, adding significant costs for shipping companies already facing higher insurance premiums and operational expenses. Although prices have retreated from their initial peaks, bunker markets remain well above pre-conflict levels, with renewed increases and continued supply constraints keeping pressure on vessel

Diesel prices in Europe and the United States have reached record levels as disruptions to major refining and export markets tighten global fuel supplies. European diesel futures more than doubled from the beginning of 2026 before reaching an all-time high last week. The pressure is being felt across major producing regions. Conflicts in the Middle

Global oil prices have climbed back above $100 per barrel as renewed fighting in the Middle East raises concerns over prolonged disruptions to global energy supplies. Brent crude settled at $101.21 per barrel, its first close above $100 since July and its highest closing level since May 22. U.S. crude also moved higher, settling at

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,