Tanker Rates Surge to Records as Gulf Conflict Strains Oil Flows

Global tanker freight rates have hit record highs with no near-term relief, reflecting severe strain in oil markets as the Persian Gulf conflict persists and traders, shipowners, producers, and buyers navigate increasingly complex workarounds. The sustained rate surge signals a structural tightening of oil logistics, with implications for global energy costs and inflation. Uncertainty remains over the duration of the conflict and the effectiveness of alternative routing.