In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by analysts Jacob Lees Weiss and Kevjn Lim to explore the intricate and rapidly shifting risk landscape in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Recorded before significant military operations in Iran, the discussion explores nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, the implications of potential sanctions, and the dynamics of Israeli military strategy.

The episode highlights key geopolitical tensions, including the evolving relationship between the US and Israel and the impact of these factors on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges facing the Syrian Transitional Government and the role of foreign support in stabilizing the region.

With a focus on the potential for both conflict and cooperation, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the MENA region's current state and future outlook, making it essential listening for anyone interested in international relations, economics, and market intelligence.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Picture This: Israel-Iran Conflict Leads to Sharp Shock in Global Growth
• Maritime shadow fleet − Formation, operation and continuing risk for sanctions compliance teams in 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Kevjn Lim, Jacob Lees Weiss
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by Max Janthur, the product specialist for Port Performance, to delve into the critical issue of congestion at the world's ports. As global trade continues to evolve, understanding the role of ports becomes increasingly vital for economies and supply chains.

Max shares insights from the latest Port Performance report, highlighting the significant risks and impacts of port congestion, including increased operational costs, supply chain disruptions, and environmental concerns. The discussion explores key metrics related to port efficiency, such as vessel turnaround times and berth productivity, and how these factors influence the broader economic landscape.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges ports face and the importance of monitoring trends to mitigate disruptions. Max emphasizes that port congestion remains a real risk for global trade, making this conversation essential for government officials, carriers, port operators, and supply chain strategists alike.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Global Port Congestion Analysis − Port Performance Program
• Robust demand emerges on Asia-Europe ocean trade as peak season begins
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Max Janthur
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of the Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam dives deep into the complex world of the maritime shadow fleet, exploring its emergence and evolution since the introduction of the oil price cap on December 5, 2022. Joined by Ines Nastali, Senior Supply Chain Analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence, the discussion covers how these oil tankers operate outside traditional regulatory frameworks, often evading sanctions imposed by various governments.

Listeners will gain insights into the size and characteristics of the shadow fleet, which includes an estimated 940 tankers, many of which are older vessels that may not meet modern safety standards. Ines shares key statistics, including the significant increase in shadow fleet activity and the sophisticated tactics employed by these vessels to circumvent sanctions, such as turning off AIS signals and engaging in ship-to-ship transfers.

The episode also highlights recent enforcement actions taken against shadow fleet vessels, particularly in the Baltic Sea, and discusses the environmental and safety concerns associated with these aging ships. Tune in to understand the implications of the shadow fleet on global oil trade and the evolving landscape of maritime compliance.

Whether you're a maritime professional, a supply chain analyst, or simply curious about the intricacies of global oil transportation, this episode offers valuable insights and a comprehensive overview of a pressing issue in today's geopolitical climate.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Maritime shadow fleet − Formation, operation and continuing risk for sanctions compliance teams in 2025
• Fraudulent flags: Growing challenge for maritime safety
• The New Tariff Reality: Preparing for Disruption, Defending Your Margins

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guest: Ines Nastali
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun