LSEG

Tankers have resumed transit through the Strait of Hormuz amid renewed US-Iran tensions, with 22 Japan-linked ships leaving the Gulf since Tuesday and at least five LNG tankers from China, Greece, and Qatar entering the strait. Japanese authorities reported six large crude oil tankers transiting the strait between 7-9 July, leaving four vessels remaining in the Gulf.

The Kospi fell over 5% on Wednesday, making it 20% below its June 19 record high, according to LSEG data.

Four oil and gas tankers, including three controlled by QatarEnergy and an Indian-flagged VLCC, turned back from the Strait of Hormuz after attacks damaged a Qatari LNG tanker and a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker. Maritime authorities raised the threat risk to 'severe,' prompting diversions and the exit of 16 LNG cargoes and 10 crude oil shipments from the region.

Energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz continue despite recent tanker attacks, with Middle East producers loading oil and liquefied natural gas. Washington and Iran agreed to halt hostilities and renew talks, while shipping data showed multiple VLCCs and LNG tankers moving in and out of the region, including a fourth VLCC loading at Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura terminal despite a fatal helicopter crash.

Saudi Aramco resumed oil loading at its Ras Tanura terminal in the Gulf after a near four-month halt. Shipping data showed two Very Large Crude Carriers loading crude, each capable of 2 million barrels, with another vessel waiting nearby.

Ships have begun passing through the Strait of Hormuz under a UN-led evacuation scheme to assist stranded seafarers. Tracking data shows at least three vessels have transited the strait in the past 12 hours, with 35 more preparing to follow.