The latest issue of SEB’s Sustainable Finance Outlook presents insights into the implications of the conflict in the Middle East for the pace of the energy transition.
The May issue of SEB’s Sustainable Finance Outlook explores the challenges and opportunities for clean energy solutions to replace fossil oil & gas.
Lead Scientist and Senior Advisor Gregor Vulturius hosts a discussion with Thomas Thygesen, Head of Strategy Equity Research, Samantha Arpas, Sustainable Finance Specialist, and Thomas Thessen, Chief Analyst at SAS on the implications of the conflict in the Middle East for the pace of the energy transition, as well as on challenges and opportunities for clean energy solutions to replace fossil oil and gas.
The war in the Middle East disrupted global supplies of energy and energy-intensive products. We expect that the disruption will end before physical shortages hit the economy. The long-term effect is likely to be an accelerated transition to a non-fossil energy system and an electrified transportation system.
Global sustainable bond issuance grew Q1 2026, with USD 503bn in issuance despite significant geopolitical headwinds. Within the chemicals, airlines, and transportation & logistics sectors, sustainable bond issuance remains below 1% of the broader market. Allocations of the bonds are concentrated in green methanol and chemical recycling.
The new war in the Middle East is sparking policy action to cut energy import dependency and enhance affordability. With AccelerateEU, the Commission is taking actions to manage short-terms supply risk, whilst renewing its push for electrification and alternative fuels.
ETS and SAF mandates are reshaping the economics of European aviation. Higher carbon and fuel costs will pressure margins. Mitigation will rely on pass-through to customers, fleet network optimisation, policy certainty, and improved access to competitively priced SAF and carbon removals.
Lina Apsheva, a sustainability communications officer at SEB, talks to specialists in the field to help you navigate the sustainable finance market. Lina and her guests discuss recent developments and forecasts for the future, and dive into specific themes within sustainable finance.
SEB flagship report Sustainable Finance Outlook provides insights and market intelligence for navigating the sustainability transition. The report includes regular updates on energy transition investment, sustainable finance markets and regulations as well as topical research.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Gregor Vulturius, PhD
Lead Scientist and Senior Advisor
Climate & Sustainable Finance