Escalation was recognised as a risk, but a large-scale disruption to Gulf shipping was not the base case. Over the weekend, that calculus changed. Insurance premiums on vessels transiting the Strait reportedly rose sharply or were withdrawn, naval assets were targeted, and conflicting statements around whether the Strait remains fully open have left markets navigating extreme uncertainty.
Energy Market Update: Strait of Hormuz in focus: What escalation means for global oil
Brent crude surged above $80 per barrel, after escalating conflict in the Middle East sharply increased fears of disruption through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. Just days earlier, Brent had been trading near $73, with markets broadly assuming that US-Iran negotiations would continue.
Weekly Oil Market Update
Read the full report
Please note: this podcast is provided for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer, or a solicitation of an offer, to buy or sell financial instruments. These podcasts do not constitute a personal recommendation and are not investment advice.
Receive Focus insights straight to your inbox
Browse further in