OPEC monthly report said July global oil freight markets saw extreme volatility
from trade-flow disruptions. VLCC spot freight was down 18% MoM but up 432% YoY,
near historic highs; Middle East–to–East Asia VLCC rates jumped 731% YoY.
Suezmax and Aframax spot rates rose 28% and 44% MoM, with Mediterranean Aframax
up 61% MoM. OPEC noted refinery utilization remained above 78%, supported by
strong refining margins despite elevated freight.