Business · South Africa
How Hidden Ships Are Changing Global Oil Supplies and Prices
Moneyweb · 2026/02/03
Summary
The global oil supply chain is being quietly transformed by what is called the "shadow fleet." These are ships that move oil without always following official rules or sanctions. Casey Sprake, a market expert at AG Capital, explains that not just the amount of oil, but its quality, especially heavy crude oil, is very important for the market. Right now, there is a shortage of heavy crude, which is making the oil market tighter and prices more volatile. The shadow fleet helps keep oil moving worldwide, even when some shipments are restricted by sanctions. This hidden network plays a big role in making sure oil stays available but also creates challenges for tracking and regulating the market. Understanding how this shadow fleet works helps explain some recent changes in oil prices and supply.
OnABudget takeaway: For consumers and small businesses, changes in oil supply can affect fuel prices and transport costs, which may increase daily expenses. Investors should watch these market shifts as oil price volatility could impact investments in energy and transport sectors.