Key facts
- Global crude oil prices increased by over 1% on Wednesday.
- Prices are nearing a three-week high.
- The United Arab Emirates has suspended financial and economic transactions with Iran.
- Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is slow as owners avoid the waterway.
Global crude oil prices saw an increase of over 1% on Wednesday, nearing a three-week high. This surge is attributed to escalating tensions in the Middle East, specifically following the United Arab Emirates' decision to suspend financial and economic transactions with Iran. Additionally, shipping through the critical Strait of Hormuz has slowed, as vessel owners are avoiding the waterway due to ambiguous signals regarding its reopening after a blockade during the Iran war.