Global energy markets on May 13, 2026, were characterized by persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, leading to significant supply disruptions and elevated crude oil prices. Despite a forecast for contracting world oil demand, refining margins remained strong, particularly for middle distillates. Shipping markets saw surging secondhand tanker prices due to a scramble for prompt tonnage, while container rates also climbed amidst tightening capacity and early peak...
The International Energy Agency's May 2026 report projected a contraction in world oil demand for the year, revising forecasts downwards due to higher prices, a weaker economic environment, and demand-saving measures. Global oil supply also saw declines, while refining margins remained historically high, particularly for middle distillates.
IEA · May 13, 2026
Middle East Tensions Drive VLCC Secondhand Prices Above Newbuild Costs
Geopolitical risks in the Middle East, including the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have led to a surge in secondhand VLCC prices, with 5-year-old vessels trading at a premium over newbuilds due to the urgent demand for prompt shipping capacity.
iMarine / Seatrade Maritime News · May 09, 2026
US Inflation Jumps Higher Than Expected, Fueling Market Concerns
US stock markets reacted to hotter-than-expected inflation data, with the headline consumer price index (CPI) and wholesale inflation (PPI) showing significant jumps in April, raising concerns about the economic outlook.
Zacks Investment Research / AP News · May 13, 2026
European Commission Publishes Draft CBAM Carbon Price Legislation
The European Commission released draft implementing legislation for its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on May 13, 2026, outlining rules for recognizing carbon prices paid outside the EU and capping international Article 6 credits.
Fastmarkets · May 19, 2026
Container Shipping Market Tightens with Rising Rates and Capacity Constraints
The global ocean freight market is experiencing tightening capacity and rising spot rates, particularly on Asia-Europe and Transpacific trades, driven by early peak-season demand, carrier capacity discipline, and ongoing Middle East disruptions.
Bertling Group / SeaVantage · May 12, 2026
Navios Maritime Partners Orders New VLCCs with Long-Term Charters
Navios Maritime Partners announced an order for up to eight new Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) in May 2026, with the first batch of four vessels secured under five-year charter contracts at a daily rate of $47,763.
iMarine · May 25, 2026
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