Ahead of the Bell: Tanker industry upgraded (AP)

NEW YORK (AP) — Expectations for an economic recovery in 2010 and a rebound in oil demand prompted an analyst to raise his outlook for the tanker industry on Friday.

As the economy mends its recessionary wounds, consumers and businesses will demand more energy, triggering an uptick in oil shipping activity, according to FBR Capital Markets analyst Robert MacKenzie.

Gas prices will continue to rise before leveling offAhead of the Bell: Willbros Group upgraded (AP)