Tanker shipping

The recent tightening of sanctions enforcement on Iranian and Russian oil by the US and EU may lead to notable shifts in global tanker trade patterns.

 

The last time the Strait of Hormuz came agonisingly close to a complete closure was between 1980 and 1988 when tankers became the targets of missiles during the Iran–Iraq war. Interestingly, it was also dubbed the ‘Tanker War’ then.

 

The Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities on Friday 13th June, followed by Iran’s retaliatory actions, have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict and potential disruption to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

 

Newbuilding prices started softening in early 2025, and we expect this downtrend to continue as the lack of clarity around IMO regulations will keep new orders subdued, increasing the competition among yards. 

 

From product tankers to VLCCs we have the market covered

Our tanker shipping practice is highly respected in the industry and is regularly followed and referenced in both industry and mainstream media. The team is responsible for maintaining extensive information resources and conducting weekly, monthly and annual analysis on the sector and assessing the impact of macroeconomic as well as regulatory and environmental change on the sector.

In addition to detailed market analysis and rigorous forecasting, we offer market leading analysis of crude oil, products and chemical shipping markets, covering all the principle vessel categories, as well as appraisals of shipping finances, including pricing, operating costs, vessel values and investment returns. We challenge conventional wisdom through our deep understanding of the trade dynamics driving demand for different vessel types in all corners of the world.

Our consultants typically provide charterers in industrial and utility sectors with seafreight procurement advice, shipowners with market entry strategies and commercial and operational due diligence for investors and lenders. Meanwhile, our team of financial research specialists provides actionable insight on the leading tanker shipowners. 

An elite and diverse group of industry stakeholders from shipowners, to charterers, port authorities, investors and financial intermediaries rely on our range of weekly, monthly and annual market research, sector expertise and commercial experience to help inform decisions, reduce costs and drive performance improvement.