#global-shipping

#global-shipping

The SonicShares Global Shipping ETF ( NYSEARCA:BOAT) has quietly become one of 2026's most powerful outperformers, with shares near $42 after a 34% year-to-date gain and a 70% advance over the past 12 months. The rally tracks a freight rate environment that Benzinga recently described as one where freight rates have tripled and VLCC tankers are earning up to $135,700 per day. BOAT has graduated from niche dividend product to a direct play on whether maritime chokepoint disruptions persist into 2027.

We have not seen the oceans this turbulent and dangerous since when countries met to establish rules decades ago. Shipping has been a dangerous endeavor, subject to piracy and sea banditry.

Washington and its allies accused Beijing of detaining and holding up Panama-linked ships, claiming China's actions were a blatant attempt to politicise maritime trade.

Under the current ceasefire, fewer than 15 ships per day are permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz. This movement is strictly contingent upon Iran's approval and the enforcement of a specific protocol.

The Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping that began in late 2023 never really ended. Even after tentative ceasefire arrangements in 2025, traffic through the Red Sea and Suez Canal remained structurally depressed.