LNG Weekly Report - Week 45

Market activity this week saw approximately eight spot fixtures concluded, with two in the Atlantic and six East of Suez. In the East, rates are buoyed by limited two-stroke tonnage and a strong absorption of TFDE vessels into Middle East operations. Conversely, the Atlantic market faces pressure as most US Gulf cargoes are directed towards Europe rather than replenishing Eastern availability, resulting in an environment where charterers have more options. Despite recent volatility in pricing, the potential for an arbitrage opening may shift trade flows next week. Notably, one long-term deal was fixed significantly above expectations, indicating an uptick in optimism for demand going into 2027, although the upcoming delivery of new vessels is expected to exert future downward pressure on rates.