
Energy & MLP Insights: Market Implications of a Third Gulf War
Kenny Zhu
Get the latest news and updates from our team.
SEI Investments Distribution Co. (1 Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, PA, 19456) is the distributor for the Global X Funds.
Check the background of SIDCO and Global X's Registered Representatives on FINRA's BrokerCheck.

Bloomberg, March 29, 2026. "The Strait of Hormuz Oil Shock Is Now Heading West."
Wood, March 25, 2026. "New study highlights $1 trillion midstream infrastructure buildout needed through 2052."
Wall Street Journal, April 13, 2026. "Blockade Helps Put U.S. Crude-Oil Exports on Record Pace."
The Global X Research Team is pleased to announce the release of its MLP Quarterly Report, featuring key insights and opportunities in the midstream sector. The key takeaways below, as well as the charts included within this report, recap some of the key developments that impacted the midstream oil & gas sector over the past quarter. Click here to view or download the MLP report.
Crude oil prices are up ~42% year-over-year, triggered by the late-February outbreak of War in Iran. Roughly 20% of global crude oil and 20% of global LNG capacity is impaired by the wartime closure of the Strait of Hormuz, affecting roughly 10-15 million barrels of oil each day after factoring in offsets from pipeline diversions and releases from strategic reserves.1 The disruptions have led to skyrocketing energy prices and budding shortages across refined fuels, including jet fuel, gasoline, and diesel.
The 2025 North American Midstream Infrastructure Report, which evaluates energy needs across Canada and the United States, estimated that over $1 trillion worth of midstream infrastructure capital investments could be needed to meet projected energy demand through 2052, including natural gas transmission pipelines, gas gathering pipelines, and accompanying jobs to support such infrastructure, highlighting the potential opportunity size for North American energy infrastructure.2
As of April 13, 2026, U.S. crude oil exports are on pace to hit a record 5 million barrels per day, with May expected to set another record based on current tanker traffic flows. This is up from an average 4 million barrels of crude per day in 2025, as foreign buyers seek alternative sources of crude unimpeded by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. According to data from Kpler, nearly 70 supertankers are en route to the U.S. Gulf Coast to load up on oil supplies, nearly double the monthly average last year, with each tanker capable of loading roughly 2 million barrels of crude oil.3
Related ETFs
Click the fund name above to view current performance and holdings. Holdings are subject to change. Current and future holdings are subject to risk.
The War in Iran could impair energy output and thus reshape supply chains. It also highlights the growing importance of North American energy infrastructure.
The War in Iran could impair energy output and thus reshape supply chains. It also highlights the growing importance of North American energy infrastructure.
Our MLP Quarterly Report covers recent developments driving the midstream oil & gas market and key metrics related to Master Limited Partnerships.
Global X Research
Kenny Zhu