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Middle East Oil Flows Far from Normal Despite Signs of Oversupply

Executive Summary

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Middle Eastern crude oil flows are recovering to near pre-war levels, suggesting a potential market glut as regional benchmarks weaken. However, this supply increase is heavily counterbalanced by persistent geopolitical risks, including intensified attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, and extremely high transportation and insurance costs. The market is navigating a complex environment where supply recovery clashes with structural instability.

Key Insights

  • Crude oil flows from the Middle East have rebounded to levels close to those seen before the war.
  • Weakening Middle Eastern benchmarks suggest that an oil glut may be forming amid rebounding exports.
  • The cost of transporting crude oil remains exceptionally high, driven by war premiums and tanker shortages.
  • Geopolitical risks persist, with vessel attacks in the Strait of Hormuz intensifying in recent weeks.
  • Producers, such as Aramco, are forced to slash selling prices to maintain market share against price-sensitive buyers.

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