Market Alert: Aug 10, 2026

Latest news: how the Iran war is impacting RM prices

Critical intelligence on commodity pricing and industrial supply chains in the Persian Gulf zone.

Brent Crude Breaches $90 Threshold

Prices for Brent Crude spiked to $91.45/bbl this morning after reports of drone activity near the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts confirm a "permanent risk premium" is being priced into Q3-Q4 contracts, with no immediate signs of de-escalation in the shipping lanes.

Metals

Aluminum Production Halted

Major smelters in the UAE and Bahrain have reduced output by 40% citing energy insecurity. LME Aluminum prices have reacted with a 5.2% daily gain.

Chemicals

Sulfur Supply Gap Widens

With regional refining operations prioritized for local military use, global sulfur exports have plummeted. Industrial fertilizer costs are expected to rise by 15% next month.

Maritime Insurance Surge

The "War Risk" premium for vessels entering the Gulf of Oman has increased by 400% since last Monday, forcing smaller raw material carriers to anchor indefinitely.

Logistics
Steel

Iron Ore Rerouting

Shipments destined for European steel mills are being rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, adding $1,200 per container in fuel and labor surcharges.

📊 Raw Material Price Index: August 10, 2026

Real-time comparison against pre-conflict baseline (Feb 2026).

RM Risk Analysis Tool

Input a raw material to evaluate its vulnerability to the current Middle Eastern conflict theater.

Market Outlook & Strategic Advice

Procurement officers are advised to lock in long-term contracts for base metals before the Q4 peak. The "War Surcharge" is no longer a temporary fluctuation but a structural reality of the 2026 market. Expect continued port congestion in non-conflict hubs as traffic diverts to Jebel Ali's competitors.