The latest escalation in hostilities between the US and Iran have resulted in a significant rise for oil price risks not just for 2026, but well into next year, DBS Group said in a note Tuesday.
The Singapore-based banking and financial institution raised its Brent price forecasts for 2026 and 2027 by about $5, with prices now seen averaging between $85-$90 a barrel this year and $75-$80 next year.
According to DBS, even if the risk premium falls and a workable arrangement to open the crucial Strait of Hormuz is reached, prices are unlikely to dip below $80-$85/bbl for now due to uncertainty over how long any such deal is likely to last.
"After the recent lull and economic sanctions imposed on Iran, this new wave of attacks feels different than before when diplomacy and minor attacks were continuing at the same time," the note said.
"The chances of escalation have gone up a notch, and US strategy is not entirely evident, oscillating between different ways and means to force Iran to surrender or come back to the negotiating table."
A lasting deal and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz no longer appear likely in the near term, DBS said.
According to DBS, the ability of Gulf producers to reroute significant oil volumes despite attacks, limiting supply shortages, and the repeated withdrawal of US President Donald Trump from major escalations make a worst-case scenario less likely.
"Brent may briefly rise above $100/bbl, but is unlikely to stay there," the bank said.
Brent crude prices touched the $100 levels on Wednesday and were last seen trading at $99.81 a barrel.