Fastmarkets Discontinues Its Weekly Assessments of Two European Prices for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Effective April 30, 2026

Why It Matters

Removing the HBE‑IXB credits eliminates two key European SAF price references, reducing market transparency and complicating financing and blending decisions for airlines and investors.

Key Takeaways

• Fastmarkets stops AC‑SAF‑0006 and AG‑SAF‑0007 price assessments.
• Discontinuation follows removal of Dutch HBE‑IXB renewable fuel credits.
• NEa will close HBE year‑end on May 1, 2026.
• Market participants lose two weekly European SAF benchmarks.

Pulse Analysis

Fastmarkets’ decision to discontinue its weekly AC‑SAF‑0006 and AG‑SAF‑0007 price assessments reflects a fundamental shift in the Dutch renewable fuel framework. The HBE‑IXB credits, which previously lowered the reported cost of SAF blended with fossil jet fuel, are being phased out as the Dutch Emissions Authority finalizes its year‑end closing on May 1, 2026. By removing these credits, Fastmarkets can no longer provide a price that accurately reflects the regulatory environment, prompting the withdrawal of the two benchmarks that industry players have relied on for pricing and contract negotiations.

The loss of these benchmarks creates an immediate gap in price transparency for European SAF markets. Airlines, fuel traders, and investors use Fastmarkets’ indices to gauge cost parity between SAF and conventional jet fuel, structure financing deals, and meet EU blending mandates. Without a reliable weekly reference, participants may face increased pricing volatility, higher transaction costs, and greater difficulty in securing green financing. Stakeholders will likely turn to alternative sources such as IATA’s SAF price index, ICAO’s carbon offset market data, or emerging national price reporting schemes to fill the void.

In the broader context, the discontinuation underscores the evolving nature of Europe’s SAF policy landscape. As the EU tightens its renewable fuel obligations, consistent and credible pricing data become essential for scaling production and attracting investment. Market actors will need to adapt by integrating multiple data points, leveraging forward contracts, or developing new benchmark methodologies that reflect the post‑HBE credit environment. The transition may also accelerate efforts to harmonize SAF pricing across regions, fostering a more resilient and transparent global market for low‑carbon aviation fuels.