COSCO SHIP ENGY (01138) saw its shares rise 5.35% during the morning session, currently trading at HKD 17.12, with a turnover of HKD 46.0446 million.

Analysts note that since 2026, geopolitical tensions have remained elevated, boosting owner sentiment. Furthermore, increased chartering activity by international shipowners to control market capacity has helped maintain freight rates at high levels. It is suggested that owner sentiment will likely continue to influence short-term freight rates, with expectations for a significant year-on-year rise in average rates. Projections indicate that tanker profits for the first quarter of 2026 could see a multifold increase compared to the same period last year.

The outlook emphasizes that the tanker market is not merely a short-term play on geopolitics but is supported by a long-term "super bull market" thesis. Increased global crude oil production is expected to continue driving growth in tanker demand, while accelerated fleet aging will ensure rigid supply of compliant vessel capacity. Market observers also advise monitoring developments in the grey market, as geopolitical situations may present unexpected supply-demand dynamics.