27 mins. ago
Trump's latest comments cooled oil prices, but talks over ending the Strait of Hormuz blockade could prove far more consequential.
Hedge Funds Pile Back into Oil as Chokepoint Risks Return
- The signing of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding triggered one of the largest hedge fund sell-offs for crude futures and options, however the closure of the Strait of Hormuz (and now of Bab el-Mandeb) has made bullishness in vogue again.
- Net positions held by hedge funds and other money managers in ICE Brent futures and options rebounded to the equivalent of more than 192 million barrels, a 2-month high, in the week ending July 21.
- Interestingly, the positioning of hedge funds in Nymex WTI has been somewhat stagnant throughout June-July, suggesting that speculative market participants prefer to avoid futures contract with physical delivery.
#futures #july
Hedge Funds Pile Back into Oil as Chokepoint Risks Return
- The signing of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding triggered one of the largest hedge fund sell-offs for crude futures and options, however the closure of the Strait of Hormuz (and now of Bab el-Mandeb) has made bullishness in vogue again.
- Net positions held by hedge funds and other money managers in ICE Brent futures and options rebounded to the equivalent of more than 192 million barrels, a 2-month high, in the week ending July 21.
- Interestingly, the positioning of hedge funds in Nymex WTI has been somewhat stagnant throughout June-July, suggesting that speculative market participants prefer to avoid futures contract with physical delivery.
#futures #july
2 hours ago
Carillon Tower Advisers, an investment management company, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for the "Carillon Eagle Growth & Income Fund". A copy of the letter is available to download here. The second quarter of 2026 was driven by a sharp rally in AI-related stocks, although gains were concentrated in highly cyclical semiconductor, memory and optical companies. The S&P 500 gained 15.2%, while the semiconductor index surged 87.8%. Unlike earlier AI rallies led by megacaps and strong earnings growth, some smaller technology stocks rose 200% to 300%, making the advance more fragile. Software and services stocks declined as investors questioned the impact of AI disruption. Oil prices also rose during the Iran conflict before retreating, briefly increasing inflation and interest-rate concerns. Despite the volatility, economic data and corporate earnings remained strong. S&P 500 earnings are projected to rise 25% in 2026 and 15% in 2027, with the market trading near 20x earnings. The Fund continues to focus on financially strong companies with durable earnings growth that can perform across different economic conditions. In addition, please check the Fund's top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Carillon Eagle Growth & Income Fund highlighted Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX). Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) engages in the integrated energy and chemicals operations. On July 27, 2026, Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) closed at $190.00 per share. One-month return of Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) was 14.62% and its shares gained 21.00% over the past 52 weeks. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) has a market capitalization of $378.4 billion with a 52-week range between $146.49 - $214.71.
Carillon Eagle Growth & Income Fund stated the following regarding Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Chevron Corporation's (NYSE:CVX) weak share price performance in the second quarter, following very strong performance in the first quarter, closely aligns with crude oil prices throughout 2026. Crude prices mirror news flows out of the Middle East with particular attention to transit levels through the Strait of Hormuz. This will continue for the duration of the conflict. However, Chevron is well placed to benefit from generally high commodity price levels, a high-quality ***** et base, and continued discipline around cash flow generation and capital deployment."
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 103 hedge fund portfolios held Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) at the end of the first quarter which was 86 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantl
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Carillon Eagle Growth & Income Fund highlighted Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX). Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) engages in the integrated energy and chemicals operations. On July 27, 2026, Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) closed at $190.00 per share. One-month return of Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) was 14.62% and its shares gained 21.00% over the past 52 weeks. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) has a market capitalization of $378.4 billion with a 52-week range between $146.49 - $214.71.
Carillon Eagle Growth & Income Fund stated the following regarding Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Chevron Corporation's (NYSE:CVX) weak share price performance in the second quarter, following very strong performance in the first quarter, closely aligns with crude oil prices throughout 2026. Crude prices mirror news flows out of the Middle East with particular attention to transit levels through the Strait of Hormuz. This will continue for the duration of the conflict. However, Chevron is well placed to benefit from generally high commodity price levels, a high-quality ***** et base, and continued discipline around cash flow generation and capital deployment."
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 103 hedge fund portfolios held Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) at the end of the first quarter which was 86 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantl
7 hours ago
TotalEnergies SE (NYSE:TTE) reported second-quarter adjusted net income of $6 billion on July 23, 2026, up 67% year-over-year and its best quarter in nearly three years.
The gain traced almost entirely to the Iran war, as Hormuz disruption pushed crude and gas prices to multi-year highs and lifted European refining margins while Middle East capacity stayed offline. Refining and chemicals income rose 362% to $1.8 billion, and exploration and production earnings climbed 64% to $3.2 billion.
CEO Patrick Pouyanné called the strait a battleground and said closures could become normal, leaving the real question: what the company looks like once that windfall fades.
LNG is where that question starts to get answered, and the quarter alone was not encouraging.
The segment earned $807 million, a 22% decline the company attributed to trading underperformance amid flat European demand, though Pouyanné said prices rallied in July.
#july #european #question
The gain traced almost entirely to the Iran war, as Hormuz disruption pushed crude and gas prices to multi-year highs and lifted European refining margins while Middle East capacity stayed offline. Refining and chemicals income rose 362% to $1.8 billion, and exploration and production earnings climbed 64% to $3.2 billion.
CEO Patrick Pouyanné called the strait a battleground and said closures could become normal, leaving the real question: what the company looks like once that windfall fades.
LNG is where that question starts to get answered, and the quarter alone was not encouraging.
The segment earned $807 million, a 22% decline the company attributed to trading underperformance amid flat European demand, though Pouyanné said prices rallied in July.
#july #european #question
7 hours ago
The energy sector in 2026 is experiencing a split-margin scenario that few investors are pricing cleanly. Even though the broader market views the sector as mature and low-growth, refining margins remain significantly higher than their typical mid-cycle range.
Chemicals, on the other hand, are only now recovering from some of their lowest margins in years, with the Chemical Manufacturing Industry posting an EBITDA margin of 16.86% in the year leading up to Q2 2026.
Meanwhile, renewable diesel, which has long been a burden on integrated energy earnings, is moving from below break-even to mid-cycle profitability, thanks to a regulatory reset rather than increased demand. This comes as S&P Global reported that the applicable biomass-based diesel volume requirement has been substantially raised from 5.42 billion gallons in 2025 to 9.07 billion gallons in 2026.
Only a handful of companies sit at the center of all three cycles simultaneously. That's why Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) is worth a deeper study. It isn't a pure refiner, a pure chemicals operation, or a pure renewables gamble, but rather a company whose near-term earnings potential depends on three distinct margin recoveries occurring nearly in sync.
The refining rebound is already quantifiable as PSX's realized refining margin increased by 48% to $10.11 per barrel in Q1 2026, from $6.81 the previous year, while crude capacity utilization increased to 95% from 80%. This lifted the refining business from a $937 million adjusted loss in Q1 2025 to a $208 million adjusted profit, bringing overall adjusted EPS to $0.49, above the Wall Street forecast of a $0.40 per share loss.
#sector
Chemicals, on the other hand, are only now recovering from some of their lowest margins in years, with the Chemical Manufacturing Industry posting an EBITDA margin of 16.86% in the year leading up to Q2 2026.
Meanwhile, renewable diesel, which has long been a burden on integrated energy earnings, is moving from below break-even to mid-cycle profitability, thanks to a regulatory reset rather than increased demand. This comes as S&P Global reported that the applicable biomass-based diesel volume requirement has been substantially raised from 5.42 billion gallons in 2025 to 9.07 billion gallons in 2026.
Only a handful of companies sit at the center of all three cycles simultaneously. That's why Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) is worth a deeper study. It isn't a pure refiner, a pure chemicals operation, or a pure renewables gamble, but rather a company whose near-term earnings potential depends on three distinct margin recoveries occurring nearly in sync.
The refining rebound is already quantifiable as PSX's realized refining margin increased by 48% to $10.11 per barrel in Q1 2026, from $6.81 the previous year, while crude capacity utilization increased to 95% from 80%. This lifted the refining business from a $937 million adjusted loss in Q1 2025 to a $208 million adjusted profit, bringing overall adjusted EPS to $0.49, above the Wall Street forecast of a $0.40 per share loss.
#sector
7 hours ago
By Nicole Jao
NEW YORK, July 29 (Reuters) - Oil prices climbed 7% on Wednesday as airstrikes resumed in the Middle East, adding to worries about dwindling supply as U.S. government data showed crude inventories fell to a multi-year low.
Brent futures were up $6.16, or 7.33%, at $90.25 a barrel by 11:36 a.m. ET (1536 GMT). U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $5.40, or 6.81%, to $84.65 a barrel.
"Renewed military strikes in the Middle East and Iranian officials reiterating that they want to control shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz amid depressed oil flows through the strait are lifting oil prices again," UBS ******* yst Giovanni Staunovo said.
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia launched strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq on Wednesday, blaming them for drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities.
#middle #east
NEW YORK, July 29 (Reuters) - Oil prices climbed 7% on Wednesday as airstrikes resumed in the Middle East, adding to worries about dwindling supply as U.S. government data showed crude inventories fell to a multi-year low.
Brent futures were up $6.16, or 7.33%, at $90.25 a barrel by 11:36 a.m. ET (1536 GMT). U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $5.40, or 6.81%, to $84.65 a barrel.
"Renewed military strikes in the Middle East and Iranian officials reiterating that they want to control shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz amid depressed oil flows through the strait are lifting oil prices again," UBS ******* yst Giovanni Staunovo said.
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia launched strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq on Wednesday, blaming them for drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities.
#middle #east
8 hours ago
US stocks fell on Wednesday after Iran launched surprise attacks against the US, and as investors counted down to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and earnings from two big spenders on AI.
The S&P 500 (^GSPC) lost 0.8%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) dropped 1.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI), which includes fewer tech stocks, fell by a steeper 1.5%, or over 800 points, as oil prices rose amid renewed tensions in the Middle East.
SK Hynix's (000660.KS, SKHY) second quarter profit rose by 557% year over year, the company reported after the US market close on Tuesday. That was less than Wall Street expected, prompting concerns that the artificial intelligence boom may be slowing. In Asia, investors once again dumped chip stocks such as Samsung (005930.KS) and SK Hynix, driving the KOSPI Composite (^KS11) down nearly 6% on Wednesday.
Two "Magnificent Seven" quarterly results stand as another big catalyst for the AI trade, with reports from Microsoft (MSFT) and Meta (META) dropping after the bell. It could be a make-or-break moment for tech stocks after Alphabet's (GOOG, GOOGL) capital expenditure guidance last week spooked markets, resurfacing fears about the AI boom's sustainability.
In the Middle East conflict, Iran launched an "attempted surprise attack" on Tuesday, according to US Central Command, reengaging fighting between the US and Iran for the first time since a pause in hostilities on Friday. Oil prices jumped, with Brent crude (BZ=F) gaining more than 7% to trade back over $90 per barrel.
#stocks #Tech #meta
The S&P 500 (^GSPC) lost 0.8%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (^IXIC) dropped 1.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI), which includes fewer tech stocks, fell by a steeper 1.5%, or over 800 points, as oil prices rose amid renewed tensions in the Middle East.
SK Hynix's (000660.KS, SKHY) second quarter profit rose by 557% year over year, the company reported after the US market close on Tuesday. That was less than Wall Street expected, prompting concerns that the artificial intelligence boom may be slowing. In Asia, investors once again dumped chip stocks such as Samsung (005930.KS) and SK Hynix, driving the KOSPI Composite (^KS11) down nearly 6% on Wednesday.
Two "Magnificent Seven" quarterly results stand as another big catalyst for the AI trade, with reports from Microsoft (MSFT) and Meta (META) dropping after the bell. It could be a make-or-break moment for tech stocks after Alphabet's (GOOG, GOOGL) capital expenditure guidance last week spooked markets, resurfacing fears about the AI boom's sustainability.
In the Middle East conflict, Iran launched an "attempted surprise attack" on Tuesday, according to US Central Command, reengaging fighting between the US and Iran for the first time since a pause in hostilities on Friday. Oil prices jumped, with Brent crude (BZ=F) gaining more than 7% to trade back over $90 per barrel.
#stocks #Tech #meta
8 hours ago
Stock market investors on Wednesday were spooked by the prospect of an interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve while flaring U.S.-Iran tensions propelled oil prices. GE HealthCare (GEHC) soared on the stock market today after its earnings report. Meanwhile, Meta Platforms (META) and Microsoft (MSFT) reports are on deck.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped more than 800 points, or 1.6%, amid mixed reactions to earnings reports from Visa (V) and Procter & Gamble (PG). The S&P 500 flopped 0.8%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell 1.1%. The Nasdaq-100 (NDX) dropped 1% and once again stumbled into correction territory, falling 10% from its June highs. Small caps were hit as well, pulling the Russell 2000 index lower by 1.1%.
In the face of heightened hostilities between the U.S. and Iran, West Texas intermediate crude oil futures spiked more than 7%, trading around $84.90 per barrel. Brent crude futures also jumped more than 7%, trading at $88 per barrel.
Also, ahead of the Fed's announcement on the fed funds rate, the 10-year Treasury yield rose 2 basis to 4.62%. Bitcoin slid near $63,990.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) soared more than 10%, rebounding from a downward-sloping 50-day moving average. It was the best performer on the Nasdaq composite Wednesday, and was on track for its largest percentage increase on record, according to Dow Jones Markets Data.
#wednesday #gehc #average
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped more than 800 points, or 1.6%, amid mixed reactions to earnings reports from Visa (V) and Procter & Gamble (PG). The S&P 500 flopped 0.8%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell 1.1%. The Nasdaq-100 (NDX) dropped 1% and once again stumbled into correction territory, falling 10% from its June highs. Small caps were hit as well, pulling the Russell 2000 index lower by 1.1%.
In the face of heightened hostilities between the U.S. and Iran, West Texas intermediate crude oil futures spiked more than 7%, trading around $84.90 per barrel. Brent crude futures also jumped more than 7%, trading at $88 per barrel.
Also, ahead of the Fed's announcement on the fed funds rate, the 10-year Treasury yield rose 2 basis to 4.62%. Bitcoin slid near $63,990.
GE Healthcare (GEHC) soared more than 10%, rebounding from a downward-sloping 50-day moving average. It was the best performer on the Nasdaq composite Wednesday, and was on track for its largest percentage increase on record, according to Dow Jones Markets Data.
#wednesday #gehc #average
19 hours ago
Wall Street woke up in a good mood on Monday. Oil prices were tumbling on news of a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, and all three major indexes opened solidly higher. By midday, that optimism had largely evaporated.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) was clinging to a 0.2% gain at 12:06 p.m. ET, down from an early peak of 1.3%. The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) had slipped 0.2% into the red after starting the day up 0.9%. The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) was off 0.5%, having completely erased its 1.1% opening pop.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
^DJI data by YCharts
Brent crude dropped approximately 6% to around $86.40 per barrel after the U.S. and Iran agreed to pause military strikes while diplomatic talks resume. Lower oil means less inflation pressure, which means the Fed might ease up on rate hikes. Treasury yields dipped accordingly.
#NVIDIA #Iran #means
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) was clinging to a 0.2% gain at 12:06 p.m. ET, down from an early peak of 1.3%. The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) had slipped 0.2% into the red after starting the day up 0.9%. The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) was off 0.5%, having completely erased its 1.1% opening pop.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
^DJI data by YCharts
Brent crude dropped approximately 6% to around $86.40 per barrel after the U.S. and Iran agreed to pause military strikes while diplomatic talks resume. Lower oil means less inflation pressure, which means the Fed might ease up on rate hikes. Treasury yields dipped accordingly.
#NVIDIA #Iran #means
19 hours ago
Soybeans are trading with 41 to 42 ¼ cent losses across most contracts on Monday. The cmdtyView national average Cash Bean price is 41 1/2 cents lower at $11.72 1/2. Soymeal futures are $11.20 to $11.70 lower, with Soy Oil futures down 250 to 279 points. Crude oil is down $6.63 to add pressure.
The weekly Export Inspections report showed soybean shipments of 348,850 MT (12.82 mbu) in the week of 7/23. That was a 9.3% increase from the week prior but 18.5% below the same week last year. Mexico was the largest destination of 88,217 MT, with 65,154,620 MT shipped to Egypt and 57,290 MT to ****** an. Shipments for the marketing year are now at 38.97 MMT (2.843 bbu) of soybeans, which is 17.5% below the same period last year.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#year
The weekly Export Inspections report showed soybean shipments of 348,850 MT (12.82 mbu) in the week of 7/23. That was a 9.3% increase from the week prior but 18.5% below the same week last year. Mexico was the largest destination of 88,217 MT, with 65,154,620 MT shipped to Egypt and 57,290 MT to ****** an. Shipments for the marketing year are now at 38.97 MMT (2.843 bbu) of soybeans, which is 17.5% below the same period last year.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#year
19 hours ago
Corn futures are trading with contracts down 13 to 15 cents across most front months, pressured by an improving weather forecast and $6.63 losses in the crude oil. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price is down 13 ¾ cents at $4.20 1/4.
USDA's FGIS tallied corn export shipments at 1.488 MMT (58.58 mbu) during the week ending on July 23. That was 7.74% below week prior and 2.88% below the same week last year. Mexico was the top destination of 454,201 MT, with 252,204 MT headed to ******* an and 236,112 MT to Colombia. Marketing year exports for 2025/26 are 75.324 MMT (2.965 bbu), which is now 24.81% above the same period last year.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#corn
USDA's FGIS tallied corn export shipments at 1.488 MMT (58.58 mbu) during the week ending on July 23. That was 7.74% below week prior and 2.88% below the same week last year. Mexico was the top destination of 454,201 MT, with 252,204 MT headed to ******* an and 236,112 MT to Colombia. Marketing year exports for 2025/26 are 75.324 MMT (2.965 bbu), which is now 24.81% above the same period last year.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#corn
19 hours ago
Cotton futures are trading with 70 to 86 points higher at Monday's midday. Crude oil is down $6.63 per barrel, with the US dollar index up 0.018.
Friday afternoon's Commitment of Traders report showed managed money spec funds in cotton futures and options adding another 3,525 contracts to their net long in the week ending on Tuesday to 53,209 contracts.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#crude #commitment
Friday afternoon's Commitment of Traders report showed managed money spec funds in cotton futures and options adding another 3,525 contracts to their net long in the week ending on Tuesday to 53,209 contracts.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Everyone Loves November Soybeans Right Now. History Doesn't!
Abundant Supplies Slam Cocoa Prices
#crude #commitment
19 hours ago
As of 11:38 AM ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES:^DJI) is up 0.13% to 52,017.19, while the S&P 500 (SNPINDEX:^GSPC) is down 0.33% to 7,387.76, and the Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX:^IXIC) has slipped 0.44% to 24,840.43 as tech pressure offsets optimism from cooling geopolitical tensions.
Gold is up 0.45% to $4,074.30, and the 10-Year Treasury yield is down 0.03% to 4.65%. Communications and consumer defensive stocks are this morning's top-performing sectors while technology and energy sectors are in the red.
RTX Corp climbed 2.61% to $218.28 on strong Q2 earnings. SAP surged 7.4% to $171.79, extending last week's gains after the software company beat earnings expectations. Conversely, Nvidia is trading lower amid concerns about Chinese competition. Reddit is up 6.7% to 171.79 on optimism about its upcoming earnings.
Oil prices fell this morning on news of a pause in strikes between the U.S. and Iran. WTI crude oil fell almost 7% to $83.15 a barrel, boosting market sentiment and lifting the Dow slightly. However, investors are braced for further volatility and will be watching the Federal Reserve meeting this week. The Fed is widely expected to leave rates unchanged in July, but inflationary pressures caused by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and high spending by tech companies could prompt it to raise rates before the end of the year.
On the other side, renewed artificial intelligence (AI) valuation concerns weighed on markets. This week will bring earnings from Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Apple, and Amazon, and investors will be paying close attention to capital expenditure plans. The high concentration in the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 means any drop in their share prices will have an outsized impact on these major indexes.
#earnings
Gold is up 0.45% to $4,074.30, and the 10-Year Treasury yield is down 0.03% to 4.65%. Communications and consumer defensive stocks are this morning's top-performing sectors while technology and energy sectors are in the red.
RTX Corp climbed 2.61% to $218.28 on strong Q2 earnings. SAP surged 7.4% to $171.79, extending last week's gains after the software company beat earnings expectations. Conversely, Nvidia is trading lower amid concerns about Chinese competition. Reddit is up 6.7% to 171.79 on optimism about its upcoming earnings.
Oil prices fell this morning on news of a pause in strikes between the U.S. and Iran. WTI crude oil fell almost 7% to $83.15 a barrel, boosting market sentiment and lifting the Dow slightly. However, investors are braced for further volatility and will be watching the Federal Reserve meeting this week. The Fed is widely expected to leave rates unchanged in July, but inflationary pressures caused by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and high spending by tech companies could prompt it to raise rates before the end of the year.
On the other side, renewed artificial intelligence (AI) valuation concerns weighed on markets. This week will bring earnings from Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Apple, and Amazon, and investors will be paying close attention to capital expenditure plans. The high concentration in the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 means any drop in their share prices will have an outsized impact on these major indexes.
#earnings
20 hours ago
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Oil markets won't be able to absorb another blow to supplies if conflict with Iran resumes in the near future, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
In a recent blog post, the IMF said markets had depleted a trio of "shock absorbers" that kept crude prices from skyrocketing to record-setting levels (1).
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
JPMorgan still sees gold hitting $5,000/oz by Q4 — and savvy investors are protecting their wealth with a tax-advantaged Gold IRA. Learn more with a free guide from Priority Gold
#finance #Iran #international #fund
Oil markets won't be able to absorb another blow to supplies if conflict with Iran resumes in the near future, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
In a recent blog post, the IMF said markets had depleted a trio of "shock absorbers" that kept crude prices from skyrocketing to record-setting levels (1).
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
JPMorgan still sees gold hitting $5,000/oz by Q4 — and savvy investors are protecting their wealth with a tax-advantaged Gold IRA. Learn more with a free guide from Priority Gold
#finance #Iran #international #fund
20 hours ago
September WTI crude oil (CLU26) today is down -6.06 (-6.79%), and September RBOB gasoline (RBU26) is down -0.0679 (-2.10%).
Crude oil and gasoline prices are sinking today, with gasoline falling to a 1-week low. The easing of tensions in the Middle East is weighing on energy prices today after the US and Iran held off on further attacks against each other for a third day, and Iran signaled it would refrain from any retaliation as it held negotiations with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz. Also, President Trump said today that the US paused Iran strikes to give peace talks a chance.
Tesla Missed by 38% But Elon Musk Is Not Worried. Here's What TSLA Investors Should Make of That.
Dear Bloom Energy Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 28
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
#september
Crude oil and gasoline prices are sinking today, with gasoline falling to a 1-week low. The easing of tensions in the Middle East is weighing on energy prices today after the US and Iran held off on further attacks against each other for a third day, and Iran signaled it would refrain from any retaliation as it held negotiations with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz. Also, President Trump said today that the US paused Iran strikes to give peace talks a chance.
Tesla Missed by 38% But Elon Musk Is Not Worried. Here's What TSLA Investors Should Make of That.
Dear Bloom Energy Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 28
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
#september
21 hours ago
Bloom Energy (BE) investors have a date they should not forget.
The fuel cell maker is set to report second-quarter earnings on July 28, and this one carries extra weight. Bloom just closed its best quarter ever, then followed it up with two of the biggest announcements in company history.
Tesla Missed by 38% But Elon Musk Is Not Worried. Here's What TSLA Investors Should Make of That.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Crude Oil Prices Plunge as Supply Threats Ease
#energy #july #missed #musk
The fuel cell maker is set to report second-quarter earnings on July 28, and this one carries extra weight. Bloom just closed its best quarter ever, then followed it up with two of the biggest announcements in company history.
Tesla Missed by 38% But Elon Musk Is Not Worried. Here's What TSLA Investors Should Make of That.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Crude Oil Prices Plunge as Supply Threats Ease
#energy #july #missed #musk
1 day ago
By Mike Dolan
July 27 (Reuters) -
What matters in U.S. and global markets today
By Mike Dolan, Editor-at-Large, Finance and Markets
A pause in the Iran conflict and a sizeable retreat in crude oil prices away from $100 per barrel offer some relief at the start of what's set to be another turbulent week for markets.
#dolan #reuters #finance #matters
July 27 (Reuters) -
What matters in U.S. and global markets today
By Mike Dolan, Editor-at-Large, Finance and Markets
A pause in the Iran conflict and a sizeable retreat in crude oil prices away from $100 per barrel offer some relief at the start of what's set to be another turbulent week for markets.
#dolan #reuters #finance #matters
1 day ago
Bitcoin (BTC) bounced over the weekend session and was stabilizing above the $65,000 support as of Monday.
The cryptocurrency climbed more than 3% from its weekend low to reach an intraday high of around $65,722. Its recovery followed a pause in hostilities between the US and Iran, which sent oil prices sharply lower and improved risk appetite across global markets.
Brent crude consequently fell more than 4% toward $92 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped over 5% to around $84.
Falling energy prices eased concerns that the Iran conflict would trigger another inflation shock and force the Federal Reserve to maintain a more aggressive monetary policy stance.
Lower oil prices are typically supportive for speculative ***** ets because they can reduce inflation expectations, improve liquidity sentiment and limit upward pressure on bond yields.
#west
The cryptocurrency climbed more than 3% from its weekend low to reach an intraday high of around $65,722. Its recovery followed a pause in hostilities between the US and Iran, which sent oil prices sharply lower and improved risk appetite across global markets.
Brent crude consequently fell more than 4% toward $92 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped over 5% to around $84.
Falling energy prices eased concerns that the Iran conflict would trigger another inflation shock and force the Federal Reserve to maintain a more aggressive monetary policy stance.
Lower oil prices are typically supportive for speculative ***** ets because they can reduce inflation expectations, improve liquidity sentiment and limit upward pressure on bond yields.
#west
1 day ago
September S&P 500 E-Mini futures (ESU26) are up +0.98%, and September Nasdaq 100 E-Mini futures (NQU26) are up +1.59% this morning, pointing to a sharply higher open on Wall Street as a slump in oil prices boosted investor sentiment at the start of a busy week.
The price of WTI crude cratered more than -8% on Monday after the U.S. and Iran refrained from attacking each other for a third consecutive night. The Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump has put off a major military escalation against Iran amid efforts to revive diplomacy aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing debate over the impact of dwindling munitions stockpiles. Mr. Trump has consistently said "he prefers a diplomatic solution, but he continues to retain all options if Iran continues terrorist activities in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies," a White House spokesman said in a statement. Meanwhile, Iran's army said on Sunday that it has suspended its retaliation against U.S. bases and troops in the region following Trump's decision to hold off on strikes.
Dear ****** eX Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for August 6
Amazon Stock Just Hit a Major Hurdle Ahead of Earnings
Elon Musk Just Revealed a Quiet Win for Tesla's AI Ambitions
#september #wall #street #major
The price of WTI crude cratered more than -8% on Monday after the U.S. and Iran refrained from attacking each other for a third consecutive night. The Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump has put off a major military escalation against Iran amid efforts to revive diplomacy aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing debate over the impact of dwindling munitions stockpiles. Mr. Trump has consistently said "he prefers a diplomatic solution, but he continues to retain all options if Iran continues terrorist activities in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies," a White House spokesman said in a statement. Meanwhile, Iran's army said on Sunday that it has suspended its retaliation against U.S. bases and troops in the region following Trump's decision to hold off on strikes.
Dear ****** eX Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for August 6
Amazon Stock Just Hit a Major Hurdle Ahead of Earnings
Elon Musk Just Revealed a Quiet Win for Tesla's AI Ambitions
#september #wall #street #major
1 day ago
Crude oil prices dropped sharply on Monday as investors unwound geopolitical risk premiums following indications that tensions between the United States and Iran may be easing. The selloff erased much of the rally seen last week, when fears of a wider conflict briefly pushed Brent crude close to the $100-per-barrel level.
By 06:11 GMT, Brent crude futures were down 6% at $90.93 per barrel after briefly falling below $90 earlier in the session. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures declined 6.1% to $83.83 per barrel.
Last week, Brent climbed to around $100 a barrel after the conflict expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz into the Red Sea, raising concerns over Middle Eastern oil exports.
However, market sentiment shifted after Washington paused its military campaign following 13 consecutive nights of strikes, allowing additional time for diplomatic negotiations after weeks of escalating hostilities.
Iran quickly responded to the move. According to Reuters, an Iranian official said Tehran would halt retaliatory attacks provided the United States maintained its suspension of military operations. Both governments have nevertheless indicated they are prepared to resume military action if negotiations fail.
#united #Iran
By 06:11 GMT, Brent crude futures were down 6% at $90.93 per barrel after briefly falling below $90 earlier in the session. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures declined 6.1% to $83.83 per barrel.
Last week, Brent climbed to around $100 a barrel after the conflict expanded beyond the Strait of Hormuz into the Red Sea, raising concerns over Middle Eastern oil exports.
However, market sentiment shifted after Washington paused its military campaign following 13 consecutive nights of strikes, allowing additional time for diplomatic negotiations after weeks of escalating hostilities.
Iran quickly responded to the move. According to Reuters, an Iranian official said Tehran would halt retaliatory attacks provided the United States maintained its suspension of military operations. Both governments have nevertheless indicated they are prepared to resume military action if negotiations fail.
#united #Iran
1 day ago
As the Dow Jones Industrial Average and other stock indexes traded higher during Tuesday's session, Chevron (CVX), ASML (ASML), ATI (ATI) and Snowflake (SNOW) were among the names to watch.
With the S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite down in recent sessions, traders who use Investor's Business Daily's IBD Methodology should be focusing on defense, while identifying top-performing growth stocks for when the market trend shifts.
Dow Jones energy giant Chevron is approaching a double-bottom entry at 198.87 amid sharp gains in recent weeks, according to IBD MarketSurge chart **** ysis. Shares reversed from early gains to fall more than 1% midday Tuesday, threatening to add to Monday's steep drop.
Oil prices extended Monday's losses, down another 4% in midday trading Tuesday. On Monday, crude prices plunged 7.5% to $82.61 a barrel amid optimism for renewed U.S.-Iran talks.
Chevron stock backstory: Chevron earnings are set for Friday morning, with **** ysts looking for earnings of $5.55 a share and revenue of $63.3 billion.
#chevron #asml #gains
With the S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite down in recent sessions, traders who use Investor's Business Daily's IBD Methodology should be focusing on defense, while identifying top-performing growth stocks for when the market trend shifts.
Dow Jones energy giant Chevron is approaching a double-bottom entry at 198.87 amid sharp gains in recent weeks, according to IBD MarketSurge chart **** ysis. Shares reversed from early gains to fall more than 1% midday Tuesday, threatening to add to Monday's steep drop.
Oil prices extended Monday's losses, down another 4% in midday trading Tuesday. On Monday, crude prices plunged 7.5% to $82.61 a barrel amid optimism for renewed U.S.-Iran talks.
Chevron stock backstory: Chevron earnings are set for Friday morning, with **** ysts looking for earnings of $5.55 a share and revenue of $63.3 billion.
#chevron #asml #gains
2 days ago
Oil prices gave up earlier gains on Friday after reports that Pakistan is trying to broker a return to U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations. China is strongly backing the effort as the conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten its energy security and weigh on its economy.
Brent crude for September delivery fell 4.4% to trade at $96.36 per barrel at 1.35 pm ET while WTI crude for September delivery was down 3.6% to change hands at $88.86/bbl.
However, Standard Chartered says the latest pullback may prove temporary as Middle East oil market risk has expanded from one strategic chokepoint to two.
On Monday, Yemen's Houthi militant group imposed a targeted maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, threatening to enforce it by blocking Saudi-linked vessels from transiting the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The group claimed the blockade was a direct retaliation for a decade-long Saudi containment of Yemen as well as a recent Saudi-backed airstrike targeting Sanaa International Airport.
The threat immediately rattled oil markets, prompting multiple Saudi-linked very large crude carriers (VLCCs) to abandon planned transits through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and instead reroute around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding up to two weeks to each voyage. Two days later, the Houthis followed through. The group launched ballistic missiles and drones at two Saudi oil tankers on Thursday, damaging both vessels and igniting fires onboard. Brent crude surged nearly $20 per barrel, briefly climbing above $100.
#brent #september
Brent crude for September delivery fell 4.4% to trade at $96.36 per barrel at 1.35 pm ET while WTI crude for September delivery was down 3.6% to change hands at $88.86/bbl.
However, Standard Chartered says the latest pullback may prove temporary as Middle East oil market risk has expanded from one strategic chokepoint to two.
On Monday, Yemen's Houthi militant group imposed a targeted maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, threatening to enforce it by blocking Saudi-linked vessels from transiting the vital Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The group claimed the blockade was a direct retaliation for a decade-long Saudi containment of Yemen as well as a recent Saudi-backed airstrike targeting Sanaa International Airport.
The threat immediately rattled oil markets, prompting multiple Saudi-linked very large crude carriers (VLCCs) to abandon planned transits through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and instead reroute around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, adding up to two weeks to each voyage. Two days later, the Houthis followed through. The group launched ballistic missiles and drones at two Saudi oil tankers on Thursday, damaging both vessels and igniting fires onboard. Brent crude surged nearly $20 per barrel, briefly climbing above $100.
#brent #september
2 days ago
Tesla (TSLA) is an electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy company led by CEO Elon Musk. Founded in 2003 and based in Austin, Texas, the company designs, manufactures, and sells EVs alongside energy storage and generation products, including Megapack and solar solutions. Tesla operates across two core segments: Automotive — which includes vehicle sales, regulatory credits, and Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscriptions — and Energy Generation and Storage.
Rapidly emerging businesses including Tesla's robotaxi service, Optimus humanoid robots, and artificial intelligence (AI) computing infrastructure are increasingly shaping the company's long-term valuation narrative. That's positioning Tesla as a full-stack autonomous technology and energy platform. Let's take a closer look.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Dear Bloom Energy Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 28
Crude Oil Prices Plunge as Supply Threats Ease
#energy #full #vehicle
Rapidly emerging businesses including Tesla's robotaxi service, Optimus humanoid robots, and artificial intelligence (AI) computing infrastructure are increasingly shaping the company's long-term valuation narrative. That's positioning Tesla as a full-stack autonomous technology and energy platform. Let's take a closer look.
What Do Monday Morning's Markets Bring to Mind?
Dear Bloom Energy Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 28
Crude Oil Prices Plunge as Supply Threats Ease
#energy #full #vehicle
2 days ago
U.S. airlines are grappling with soaring jet fuel costs again after the return of hostilities in the Middle East shattered the three-week-long U.S.-Iran 'deal to make a deal' and sent Brent crude oil prices soaring past $100 per barrel again.
The U.S. jet fuel market has been tightening since March, although there haven't been concerns about any shortages in America, unlike in Europe, which in April was supposed to run out of stockpiles within six weeks.
Europe didn't see shortages, but the global markets tightened, and prices spiked amid peak seasonal demand during the summer holiday travel.
U.S. jet fuel exports, and exports of all other fuels including gasoline and diesel, hit record highs this month as refining margins soared with crude supply still constrained at the Strait of Hormuz.
The result is spiking fuel costs that depress airline earnings and raise air fares for consumers.
#fuel
The U.S. jet fuel market has been tightening since March, although there haven't been concerns about any shortages in America, unlike in Europe, which in April was supposed to run out of stockpiles within six weeks.
Europe didn't see shortages, but the global markets tightened, and prices spiked amid peak seasonal demand during the summer holiday travel.
U.S. jet fuel exports, and exports of all other fuels including gasoline and diesel, hit record highs this month as refining margins soared with crude supply still constrained at the Strait of Hormuz.
The result is spiking fuel costs that depress airline earnings and raise air fares for consumers.
#fuel
2 days ago
Barclays believes the next phase for equity markets will be determined by upcoming Big Tech earnings and a series of central bank meetings, as investors balance resilient corporate performance against mounting macroeconomic risks.
The bank said strong earnings have helped equities withstand higher bond yields, rising oil prices and renewed concerns over artificial intelligence spending, but warned that the investment backdrop is becoming more challenging.
According to Barclays, early second-quarter earnings have exceeded expectations on both sides of the Atlantic, reinforcing confidence in corporate fundamentals.
Despite higher interest rates and elevated energy prices, markets have remained resilient so far this reporting season. However, strategists led by Emmanuel Cau said oil prices and bond yields have now reached levels where downside risks are becoming more ****** ounced.
With no breakthrough in the conflict between the United States and Iran, Brent crude has climbed back to around $100 per barrel.
#bank #bond
The bank said strong earnings have helped equities withstand higher bond yields, rising oil prices and renewed concerns over artificial intelligence spending, but warned that the investment backdrop is becoming more challenging.
According to Barclays, early second-quarter earnings have exceeded expectations on both sides of the Atlantic, reinforcing confidence in corporate fundamentals.
Despite higher interest rates and elevated energy prices, markets have remained resilient so far this reporting season. However, strategists led by Emmanuel Cau said oil prices and bond yields have now reached levels where downside risks are becoming more ****** ounced.
With no breakthrough in the conflict between the United States and Iran, Brent crude has climbed back to around $100 per barrel.
#bank #bond
2 days ago
Less than a month ago, **** ysts were warning of a looming glut of crude oil as tanker traffic via the Strait of Hormuz began to recover amid a U.S.-Iran ceasefire. Within days of these warnings, the ceasefire was a painful memory, missiles were flying again, and now Yemen's Houthis are striking tankers in the Red Sea, which makes two blocked oil chokepoints and a very real danger of a global recession.
Brent crude this week topped $100 per barrel on reports that the Houthis had struck two Saudi tankers in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which Saudi Arabia is currently using as the primary outlet for its crude amid the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Soon enough it emerged that tankers that were heading to the Red Sea waterway were making U-turns and heading to alternative routes—which take longer and cost more.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone strikes on the Caspian Pipeline System's terminus on the Black Sea have forced Kazakhstan to suspend most of its oil exports. The target of the drone attacks was the Novorossiysk port on Russia's Black Sea coast, which also happens to be the point of departure of the bulk of Kazakh oil exports to world markets. Bloomberg reported this week that tanker operators were getting nervous about sending their vessels to the port of Novorossiysk because Ukrainian drones were also striking ships at the port.
The Strait of Hormuz used to see average daily oil volumes of some 20 million barrels daily. This has now slowed to a trickle. The Red Sea chokepoint of Bab el-Mandeb has been handling between 4 and 5 million barrels daily of Saudi oil in recent weeks, according to different estimates. Now, this too appears to be almost completely blocked. Add to this the loss of 1.7 million barrels daily in Kazakh flows to Novorossiysk, and the global oil supply picture takes on a rather grim tint. Additionally, the Ukrainian forces continue to target Russian refineries, which has already led to a temporary ban on diesel exports at a time when global fuel inventories are getting strained by the first-wave effects of the Middle East war.
In fact, the situation with refined petroleum products is a major crisis in its own right. "Unlike crude oil, refined products face far fewer mitigation options. Several Middle Eastern refineries remain affected by the ongoing conflict while Russia's diesel export restrictions continue to constrain global availability," Ole Hansen, Saxo Bank's head of commodity strategy, said in an **** ysis earlier this month. "Refining capacity globally also remains relatively limited, preventing crude supply increases from quickly translating into additional diesel and gasoline production," he added.
#daily #exports
Brent crude this week topped $100 per barrel on reports that the Houthis had struck two Saudi tankers in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which Saudi Arabia is currently using as the primary outlet for its crude amid the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Soon enough it emerged that tankers that were heading to the Red Sea waterway were making U-turns and heading to alternative routes—which take longer and cost more.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone strikes on the Caspian Pipeline System's terminus on the Black Sea have forced Kazakhstan to suspend most of its oil exports. The target of the drone attacks was the Novorossiysk port on Russia's Black Sea coast, which also happens to be the point of departure of the bulk of Kazakh oil exports to world markets. Bloomberg reported this week that tanker operators were getting nervous about sending their vessels to the port of Novorossiysk because Ukrainian drones were also striking ships at the port.
The Strait of Hormuz used to see average daily oil volumes of some 20 million barrels daily. This has now slowed to a trickle. The Red Sea chokepoint of Bab el-Mandeb has been handling between 4 and 5 million barrels daily of Saudi oil in recent weeks, according to different estimates. Now, this too appears to be almost completely blocked. Add to this the loss of 1.7 million barrels daily in Kazakh flows to Novorossiysk, and the global oil supply picture takes on a rather grim tint. Additionally, the Ukrainian forces continue to target Russian refineries, which has already led to a temporary ban on diesel exports at a time when global fuel inventories are getting strained by the first-wave effects of the Middle East war.
In fact, the situation with refined petroleum products is a major crisis in its own right. "Unlike crude oil, refined products face far fewer mitigation options. Several Middle Eastern refineries remain affected by the ongoing conflict while Russia's diesel export restrictions continue to constrain global availability," Ole Hansen, Saxo Bank's head of commodity strategy, said in an **** ysis earlier this month. "Refining capacity globally also remains relatively limited, preventing crude supply increases from quickly translating into additional diesel and gasoline production," he added.
#daily #exports
5 days ago
The second wave of the US-Iran conflict shows no signs of letting up. Attacks by the Houthi militia have threatened to curtail shipping through the Red Sea. Russia's refineries are buckling under the weight of bombardment by the Ukrainian military.
For global oil markets, already in a precarious situation, critical logistical nodes just keep getting thwarted. Things keep going wrong. Oil prices have started rebounding in return, reaching levels not seen since the first weeks of June before the signing of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding as Brent futures (BZ=F) crossed $100 per barrel on Thursday.
"If a ceasefire does not materialize," Rystad Energy head of geopolitical ***** ysis Jorge León said, "the risk of a significant rebound in oil prices would be substantial."
As the war between the US and Iran initially began in late February, attention swung toward the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway responsible for roughly a fifth of the world's oil trade. Threats of violence and, eventually, direct attacks on vessels by Iranian military wings sent traffic through the strait collapsing, kicking off the largest energy supply crisis on record.
Six months down the road, as the conflict has reignited, the danger for the global oil market has diversified, no longer concentrated in a single waterway or oil-producing country. Instead, disruptions are accumulating across the infrastructure that carries crude from the Middle East, processes Russian oil into 11% of the world's diesel, and supplies fuel to consumers from Europe to Asia — and at a time when the market is already squeezed after half a year's worth of supply disruptions.
#energy
For global oil markets, already in a precarious situation, critical logistical nodes just keep getting thwarted. Things keep going wrong. Oil prices have started rebounding in return, reaching levels not seen since the first weeks of June before the signing of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding as Brent futures (BZ=F) crossed $100 per barrel on Thursday.
"If a ceasefire does not materialize," Rystad Energy head of geopolitical ***** ysis Jorge León said, "the risk of a significant rebound in oil prices would be substantial."
As the war between the US and Iran initially began in late February, attention swung toward the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway responsible for roughly a fifth of the world's oil trade. Threats of violence and, eventually, direct attacks on vessels by Iranian military wings sent traffic through the strait collapsing, kicking off the largest energy supply crisis on record.
Six months down the road, as the conflict has reignited, the danger for the global oil market has diversified, no longer concentrated in a single waterway or oil-producing country. Instead, disruptions are accumulating across the infrastructure that carries crude from the Middle East, processes Russian oil into 11% of the world's diesel, and supplies fuel to consumers from Europe to Asia — and at a time when the market is already squeezed after half a year's worth of supply disruptions.
#energy
5 days ago
OPEC+ is expected to approve another production target increase when eight key producers meet on August 2, extending a months-long campaign to unwind voluntary supply cuts that have existed largely on paper since the Iran war upended Gulf exports.
Reuters reported Thursday that Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Algeria, Kazakhstan, and Oman are expected to raise their combined September production target by another 188,000 barrels per day, matching the increases announced for June, July, and August.
The problem is that quotas have been rising while actual production has been moving in the opposite direction.
According to OPEC's own data, the group produced 36.28 million bpd in June, down from nearly 43 million bpd before the war began in February. Repeated disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, followed by renewed attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, have prevented several Gulf producers from restoring exports despite higher official targets.
Brent crude topped $100 a barrel Thursday after Houthi attacks on Saudi-linked tankers raised fresh concerns about traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Saudi Arabia shifted much of its crude exports to the Red Sea after Hormuz became unreliable. That alternative route is now coming under pressure as well.
#august #strait #hormuz
Reuters reported Thursday that Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Algeria, Kazakhstan, and Oman are expected to raise their combined September production target by another 188,000 barrels per day, matching the increases announced for June, July, and August.
The problem is that quotas have been rising while actual production has been moving in the opposite direction.
According to OPEC's own data, the group produced 36.28 million bpd in June, down from nearly 43 million bpd before the war began in February. Repeated disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, followed by renewed attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, have prevented several Gulf producers from restoring exports despite higher official targets.
Brent crude topped $100 a barrel Thursday after Houthi attacks on Saudi-linked tankers raised fresh concerns about traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Saudi Arabia shifted much of its crude exports to the Red Sea after Hormuz became unreliable. That alternative route is now coming under pressure as well.
#august #strait #hormuz
5 days ago
Slipping 2.15% to 25,138, the Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX:^IXIC) dropped sharply today, driven by a broad retreat in technology stocks following earnings reports. The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX:^GSPC) lost 1.21% to 7,408 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES:^DJI) fell 0.97% to 51,712.
Gold prices fell 2.36% to $4,048.76 as of U.S. market close, and the 10-Year Treasury yield rose 0.04% to 4.67%, a 52-week high. Communication services and consumer cyclicals were the biggest losers today, while industrials and healthcare stocks showed strength.
Alphabet fell by 7%, and Tesla shares tumbled almost 15% following yesterday's earnings. In contrast, Intel rose in after-hours trading following its Q2 results, which beat expectations. EquipmentShare.com rose 8%, extending gains after increasing its revenue guidance earlier this month.
The risk that the huge outlays on artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure might not pay off pressured technology stocks today. Rising oil prices and high Treasury yields compounded the risk-off mood. WTI crude oil gained 5.8% to $91.84 a barrel on reports that Houthi militia had attacked tankers in the Red Sea, threatening an alternative supply route to the Strait of Hormuz, which remains largely closed.
Mounting concern over heavy AI capital expenditures hit both Alphabet and Tesla shares. Increased spending from both firms — without a clear indication of when investors will see returns — weighed on shares. Investors are shifting their stances on AI spending sprees, which could justify a more cautious stance on big tech firms.
#stocks #rose #tesla
Gold prices fell 2.36% to $4,048.76 as of U.S. market close, and the 10-Year Treasury yield rose 0.04% to 4.67%, a 52-week high. Communication services and consumer cyclicals were the biggest losers today, while industrials and healthcare stocks showed strength.
Alphabet fell by 7%, and Tesla shares tumbled almost 15% following yesterday's earnings. In contrast, Intel rose in after-hours trading following its Q2 results, which beat expectations. EquipmentShare.com rose 8%, extending gains after increasing its revenue guidance earlier this month.
The risk that the huge outlays on artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure might not pay off pressured technology stocks today. Rising oil prices and high Treasury yields compounded the risk-off mood. WTI crude oil gained 5.8% to $91.84 a barrel on reports that Houthi militia had attacked tankers in the Red Sea, threatening an alternative supply route to the Strait of Hormuz, which remains largely closed.
Mounting concern over heavy AI capital expenditures hit both Alphabet and Tesla shares. Increased spending from both firms — without a clear indication of when investors will see returns — weighed on shares. Investors are shifting their stances on AI spending sprees, which could justify a more cautious stance on big tech firms.
#stocks #rose #tesla
5 days ago
Updated July 23, 2026 4:59 pm ET
Listen
(4 min)
The latest Market Talks covering Basic Materials. Published exclusively on Dow Jones Newswires at 4:20 ET, 12:20 ET and 16:50 ET.
0627 ET – Palm oil ended higher as crude oil and soybean oil prices surged amid escalating tensions in the Middle East conflict, according to David Ng, a trader at Kuala Lumpur-based Iceberg X. The U.S. is increasing the presence of forces, medics and weaponry to the Middle East to give President Trump more military options, as he considers expanding the conflict against Iran, The Wall Street Journal reported. Ng sees prices for palm oil well supported above 4,600 ringgit a ton and resistance at 4,780 ringgit a ton. The Bursa Malaysia Derivatives contract for October delivery rose 87 ringgit to 4,709 a ton.(tracy.quwsj.com)
#conflict
Listen
(4 min)
The latest Market Talks covering Basic Materials. Published exclusively on Dow Jones Newswires at 4:20 ET, 12:20 ET and 16:50 ET.
0627 ET – Palm oil ended higher as crude oil and soybean oil prices surged amid escalating tensions in the Middle East conflict, according to David Ng, a trader at Kuala Lumpur-based Iceberg X. The U.S. is increasing the presence of forces, medics and weaponry to the Middle East to give President Trump more military options, as he considers expanding the conflict against Iran, The Wall Street Journal reported. Ng sees prices for palm oil well supported above 4,600 ringgit a ton and resistance at 4,780 ringgit a ton. The Bursa Malaysia Derivatives contract for October delivery rose 87 ringgit to 4,709 a ton.(tracy.quwsj.com)
#conflict
5 days ago
By Lawrence Delevingne and Marc Jones
July 23 (Reuters) - Oil prices spiked to $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since May, while major tech giants knocked U.S. stocks lower and Europe's borrowing costs surged to long-term highs in an unsettling day across markets.
Brent crude settled up 7% at $100.69 a barrel, following attacks on tankers in the Red Sea that choked off a second crucial Middle East artery for global oil supplies, alongside Iran's near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis struck two Saudi oil tankers as part of a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, sending prices higher as the brief cessation of hostilities between Iran and the U.S. receded into the rear-view mirror.
The U.S. military carried out a new round of strikes on Iran, marking a 12th successive night of American attacks, and prompting further Iranian retaliation. The White House has threatened additional attacks on Iranian infrastructure and key locations of its nuclear facilities.
#marc
July 23 (Reuters) - Oil prices spiked to $100 a barrel on Thursday for the first time since May, while major tech giants knocked U.S. stocks lower and Europe's borrowing costs surged to long-term highs in an unsettling day across markets.
Brent crude settled up 7% at $100.69 a barrel, following attacks on tankers in the Red Sea that choked off a second crucial Middle East artery for global oil supplies, alongside Iran's near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis struck two Saudi oil tankers as part of a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, sending prices higher as the brief cessation of hostilities between Iran and the U.S. receded into the rear-view mirror.
The U.S. military carried out a new round of strikes on Iran, marking a 12th successive night of American attacks, and prompting further Iranian retaliation. The White House has threatened additional attacks on Iranian infrastructure and key locations of its nuclear facilities.
#marc
