Frontline stock showed sharp gains in both the US and Oslo to claim positions one and two on the best performers section of the TradeWinds Shipping Index.

Analysts say the move is likely linked to the present strength of the VLCC spot market that is delivering an early Christmas present for owners.

While Frontline has been regularly tipped to merge with Frontline 2012 ahead of a convertible bond payment next year, sources say it is not thought the stock spike is linked to progress in this department.

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