According to CoinMeta, and as reported by the Financial Times, as Middle Eastern countries seek ways to export oil amidst ongoing attacks on their vessels, the demand for tankers transporting crude oil in the Gulf region has soared, driving tanker prices to record highs. Data from ship brokers Braemar shows that in the last quarter, the prices for both new and relatively new second-hand tankers reached over $130 million, the highest level since 2008. At the same time, the annual leasing prices for super tankers have also reached record highs. Oil-exporting countries are seeking to establish their own fleets to transport their goods, which has contributed to the increase in prices, especially for readily available second-hand tankers and leasing rates. David Holland, the head of sales and procurement at Braemar, stated that oil-producing countries wish to gain greater control over their own export transportation, and "for some Middle Eastern exporters, having actual control over their assets is equally important." Oil-producing countries without their own fleets, such as Iraq, have recently been forced to offer larger discounts than usual to persuade buyers to take the risk of crossing the Strait of Hormuz.