Shipping draws pension funds amid disruptions in Middle East

Shipping is drawing increased interest from pension funds and institutional investors.

As war-related disruptions in the Middle East keep vessel prices and freight rates near historic highs, Asset managers say investors are seeking exposure to “hard asset, low obsolescence” investments, the Financial Times reports.

The closure risks around the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions in the Red Sea have lengthened shipping routes and tightened vessel availability, supporting earnings and asset values.

Hayfin is raising a new maritime fund targeting twice the $620 million raised for its previous vehicle, while JPMorgan Asset Management has ordered at least eight oil supertankers worth about $1.3 billion, the FT says.