Tag Archives: marcellon

Trap Door or a New Floor?

Posted on by

Happy Friday! This week, crude oil prices experienced significant fluctuations, with WTI crude dropping below $80 per barrel for the first time in several weeks. The $80 per barrel mark has been considered a psychological support level. The decline in crude prices was primarily influenced by expectations of the Federal Reserve cutting rates in September, weaker-than-expected economic data from China, and the potential for another ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Although these factors were interpreted as bearish, there are inconsistencies in the details.

The anticipated Federal Reserve rate cut has already been factored into the market for over a month. Consequently, the recent sell-off based on Federal Reserve data appears to be an overreaction. The economic data from China was indeed weak, prompting China to lower its borrowing rates. However, China has a history of manipulating its currency to remain competitive globally. As the United States approaches a presidential election, China is prepared to engage in trade disputes with a lower yuan valuation. Despite President Biden’s announcement of a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, Benjamin Netanyahu, in his speech to the US Congress this week, did not mention any such deal.

A closer examination of these three points suggests that the recent drop in crude prices is a temporary anomaly. Similar patterns were observed last month, with prices quickly rebounding. Once WTI prices fall to around $78 per barrel, traders tend to clear positions and buy back in. Therefore, I believe crude oil is once again oversold. The bullish data for crude oil prices this week was robust. The US economy grew at a 2.8% rate, exceeding expectations. The consumer economy in the US shows no signs of slowing down. The EIA reported another drawdown in crude oil inventories nationwide, and the Federal Reserve’s PCE number aligned with expectations. Without any significant contraction in the US economy, I do not foresee a path to lower oil prices. Oil companies continue to reduce oil rig counts to maintain steady production levels. I firmly believe that $80 per barrel is the floor for WTI crude oil prices, and recent events are likely a temporary anomaly.

In the local Chicago market, Mobil announced plans to restart their Joliet refinery this weekend, with refined products expected to start flowing in early August. This news caused gasoline and diesel spot basis prices to drop. While gasoline spot prices dipped, diesel spot prices did not fall as much as anticipated due to tight diesel inventories going into the turnaround season. Additionally, the Midwest is predicting a large harvest this season, which will increase diesel demand and pressure supplies this fall.

Propane prices remained stable despite the dip in crude oil prices. The EIA reported a small build in inventory this week, which offset the previous week’s large build caused by Hurricane Beryl closing exports rather than increased production. I expect propane prices to continue trading within a narrow range. Propane still offers excellent value compared to crude oil prices. I recommend filling your tank this summer and locking in prices for the upcoming heating season.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Drill Baby, Drill!

Posted on by

Happy Friday!

This week, crude oil prices continued to trade within a narrow range, with WTI holding above $80 per barrel. Geopolitical news was relatively quiet. Ukraine is grappling with a severely damaged electrical grid, potentially increasing diesel consumption for generators. Russia shows no signs of de-escalating, and tensions are rising in Palestine as Israel killed a Hamas commander in Rafah. Additionally, the Philippines constructed an aircraft landing strip near Manila in contested waters with China, potentially escalating tensions regarding Taiwan. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which includes China, Russia, and several other nations, met and pledged mutual military and economic support, posing a potential challenge to NATO. These developments underscore a possible economic conflict and a cold war-like military structure emerging globally.

Crude oil supplies remain tight worldwide as producers exercise disciplined production. The U.S. is recovering from Hurricane Beryl, which temporarily halted exports and refinery operations. Normal operations are expected to resume in a few weeks. The Federal Reserve’s anticipated rate cut in September could weaken the dollar, putting downward pressure on crude oil prices. However, producers have signaled continued production cuts if rates decrease. Former President Trump announced plans to make the U.S. the leading global producer and exporter of crude oil, though U.S. producers remain focused on maintaining higher prices through disciplined production. OPEC agrees that reducing production during a recession is essential to sustaining higher prices. The consensus among global oil companies is “less barrels for more money,” suggesting no imminent price reductions despite a potential landscape for higher U.S. production under a Trump administration.

Severe thunderstorms forced an emergency shutdown of Mobil’s Joliet refinery in Illinois, causing significant price increases for gasoline and diesel. The refinery, producing about 300,000 barrels per day, will be down for at least a few weeks, impacting supply during the refinery maintenance season. Consequently, gasoline prices increased by nearly 30 cents per gallon and diesel by 20 cents per gallon, with prices expected to remain high into August.

Propane prices remained stable, trading in a narrow range alongside crude oil. Propane continues to offer excellent value, and we strongly recommend filling your tanks and locking in prices for the upcoming winter.

As always, please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Back to Economics

Posted on by

Happy Friday!

This week, crude oil prices closely tracked economic data, with WTI trading within a narrow range but maintaining a level above $80 per barrel. The early-week sell-off was driven by weak economic data, including reports of cooling U.S. inflation and Saudi Arabia’s decision to delay future infrastructure investments. Additionally, Federal Reserve data suggested a potential rate cut in the near future. Although these economic indicators slightly depressed crude oil prices, supply concerns prevented prices from falling below $80 per barrel. The EIA reported a significant draw in crude oil inventories, and the U.S. oil rig count continued to decline. This data supports the thesis that American oil producers are exercising discipline by reducing production in response to weak demand to sustain higher prices.

Geopolitical factors also contributed to bullish sentiment. The U.S. announced plans to send larger bombs to Israel as it continues its conflict with Hamas in Rafah. In Ukraine, reports emerged of a children’s hospital bombing, and President Zelensky spoke at the NATO summit, where continued military support for Ukraine was pledged. These geopolitical issues supported oil prices, but economic data was the primary driver this week.

In local news, the Chicago spot market experienced a significant drop in diesel basis, leading to expected lower diesel prices at the pump. The gasoline basis in Chicago continued to lengthen slightly against rising crude prices, keeping gasoline prices stable despite the increase in crude oil prices. Chicago is expected to remain long on basis until the next refinery turnaround, projected for late August or early September. Motorists in Wisconsin should benefit from the competitive pricing of refined products throughout the summer.

Propane prices have continued to rise in line with crude oil prices, with futures prices now exceeding the six-month average. Customers are strongly encouraged to fill their propane tanks and lock in their propane gallons for the upcoming winter. For more information, please contact our office.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Happy 4th of July!

Posted on by

Good afternoon!

I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July! Crude oil prices have risen throughout the week, along with finished products, ahead of the busiest travel weekend of the year. Additionally, the Federal Reserve holding rates steady and the approach of hurricanes in the south have continued to support higher crude prices. Consequently, I expect pump prices to increase. All finished product prices, including propane, ended the week higher. With many traders out of the office, trading volumes are light, which can lead to price volatility. Enjoy the rest of the holiday week!

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Welcome To The New Floor

Posted on by

Happy Friday!

I am back from vacation and a lot has happened since I returned! WTI Crude has established a new floor at $80 per barrel, with all attempts to fall below this price failing. This week, the price of WTI is expected to hold and close above $80/barrel. Traders have moved away from short positions and instead are placing longer-term position bets on crude prices. This shift is largely due to a reassessment of the market’s reaction to the OPEC+ meeting, which initially seemed bearish but has now been digested as bullish. Additionally, geopolitical risks have intensified, notably with Russia and North Korea’s recent pact. The pact offers increasing concerns about a nuclear weapon ending up in Iran. Ukraine’s military reported an average soldier age of 43, indicating a shortage of younger troops. France is considering deploying troops to Ukraine escalating tensions even further. In Israel, tensions persist between the government and military regarding ongoing operations. Domestically, the EIA report indicated increasing demand with U.S. families prioritizing travel over other discretionary spending despite higher gas prices. Overall, crude oil prices are aligning with my previous predictions and analysis.

The Chicago spot market is showing signs of tightness, with gasoline and diesel prices surpassing those in neighboring regions. This is surprising given the healthy refinery runs in Chicago and storm damage impacts elsewhere. It appears Chicago oil companies are redirecting barrels east due to rising demand. Barrels from Chicago and the Gulf are finding increased profitability with supplying the New York Harbor market which relies heavily on imports.

Propane prices have risen in tandem with crude oil prices. It is advisable to fill your propane tanks and lock in prices for the upcoming heating season. Prices have bottomed out recently and are now on the rise. Hopefully prices will not rise too much more.

For any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

OPEC+ Meets And Confuses Public Opinion

Posted on by

Good morning!

Happy Friday! The big news this week was the OPEC+ meeting on June 2nd. Traders were looking for guidance on how long production cuts will continue to be implemented. OPEC+ countries reaffirmed their commitment to existing production cuts. These cuts, totaling 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first half of 2024, are in addition to previous reductions of 3.66 million bpd, bringing the total cuts to 5.86 million bpd​. Despite concerns over economic slowdowns in major economies, OPEC+ maintains an optimistic outlook on global oil demand growth. The organization expects demand to rise significantly, which will necessitate continued management of supply to balance the market and support stable prices. The possibility of winding down current production cuts in Q4 of this year is on the table. However, the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) will continue to closely review global oil market conditions and production levels every two months. The committee is also empowered to call additional meetings or request an OPEC+ and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting whenever necessary to address market developments​. The meeting highlighted the importance of adhering to the Declaration of Cooperation (DoC) and the Charter of Cooperation. OPEC+ plans to extend the current production levels and assess the situation using data from three independent sources to guide 2026 reference production levels​. The markets interpreted the news as “bearish” and crude prices sank to the lowest prices in over a year. However, Saudi Arabia clarified on Thursday that the winding down of production cuts will only take place if the market is showing signs of an oversupplied market. The announcement poured cold water on the sell-off and crude prices rebounded. In addition, WTI price falling below $75/barrel triggered a massive repositioning in the options market. Traders showed signs of an oversold market and repositioned for WTI price to be back above $80/barrel at sometime in Q3.

The geopolitical risk for the commodities market continued to remain high this week as the war between Russia and Ukraine showed no signs of slowing down. Ukrainian forces reported downing 36 Russian missiles and drones targeting Kyiv. Russia launched approximately 20 missile and drone attacks on Kyiv since early May, intensifying their efforts to disrupt Ukraine’s preparations for a major counter-offensive. The international community continued to respond, with NATO emphasizing the need to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader war between Russia and NATO. Additionally, Turkey donated a drone to Ukraine, funded by a Lithuanian fundraising campaign. The war in Palestine also showed no signs of slowing down. Although Biden announced a ceasefire plan to the UN, China and Russia are not in favor. China and Russia hold veto power. Therefore the chances of the resolution passing is slim. Families of Israeli captives held in Gaza have urged the Israeli government to accept this plan, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the need for a peaceful resolution. The Gaza Health Ministry has reported that thousands of wounded Palestinians require urgent medical evacuation from Gaza due to the continued conflict and lack of medical supplies and facilities. Israeli forces conducted heavy artillery and helicopter raids in various areas of Rafah. These raids resulted in the deaths of several people and caused significant destruction to residential areas. This situation underscores the severe humanitarian toll the conflict is taking on the civilian population. And in a surprise announcement this morning, Houthi rebels unveiled a supersonic missile called “The Palestine” that can break through defense systems on the Red Sea. Many see the escalation will cause more attacks on ships on the Red Sea and prolong further supply disruptions. Overall, I still believe the geopolitical risks for crude oil prices outweigh demand erosion. I think Q3 of 2024 is going to be a very interesting quarter.

In local news, the EIA reported a crude oil inventory build of 1.2M barrels, a gasoline inventory build of 2.1M barrels, and a distillate inventory build of 3.2M barrels. The news was interpreted as showing signs of diminishing demand. Chicago spot market continues to hold excellent value compared to our neighbors in the West. Although Chicago spot barrels are cheap, any refinery disruption or hurricane will cause a massive spike in price. For now, everyone should take advance of the cheaper retail prices.

Propane prices continue to skip along the bottom. The EIA reported a propane inventory build of 2.5M barrels which was in line with expectations. Retail pricing of propane has great value. We believe now is a great time to consider filling your tank and contracting your propane needs for next year. Again, contracts for next heating season are cheaper than the previous winter. Almost no commodity futures are showing signs of lower pricing in 2025 compared to 2024. Feel free to call the office for more information.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call. I will be leaving on vacation soon and will not be having any updates for the next two Fridays. I should have the next update released on June 28th.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

OPEC+ Meeting and Possible Slowing Demand

Posted on by

Happy Friday!

Crude prices ended the week lower compared to last week. OPEC+ will be meeting on June 2nd to discuss production quotas going into summer. According to their projections, global oil demand is expected to increase by approximately 2.25 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2024, driven by a strengthening Chinese economy and robust demand from other non-OECD countries. This growth in demand is anticipated to outpace the rise in non-OPEC supply, positioning OPEC to play a crucial role in balancing the market and influencing prices​. OPEC also predicts that the call on its crude oil—the amount needed to balance global supply and demand—will be significantly higher than current production levels. The organization estimates this demand to be around 28.49 million bpd in 2024, compared to their December 2023 output of 26.7 million bpd. This indicates that OPEC’s supply cuts and production strategies will be critical in maintaining market stability and supporting higher prices. Furthermore, despite the possibility of an economic slowdown in the U.S., China, and Europe, OPEC maintains an optimistic view. They expect that ongoing geopolitical tensions, potential supply disruptions, and strategic production cuts will help sustain oil prices. Additionally, any economic stimulus measures, such as Federal Reserve rate cuts, could provide further support by devaluing the U.S. dollar, which typically boosts oil prices. This week, the Ukraine war has seen several significant developments. Russian forces have intensified their attacks, including a missile strike on an apartment building in Kharkiv, resulting in at least four deaths. Another missile hit first responders shortly after the initial strike. Moscow has also launched attacks using ballistic missiles and drones on various Ukrainian targets​. Ukraine has launched drone strikes targeting Russian military infrastructure in Crimea. Kyiv’s forces claimed successful hits on the Kerch ferry crossing, causing significant damage​. The US and Germany have allowed Ukraine to use their supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia. This decision has escalated tensions, with Russia warning that such actions could lead to a direct conflict with NATO​. Discussions about peace conferences continue, with China advocating for an inclusive peace summit recognized by both Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, European support for Ukraine remains strong, despite Russia’s criticism. Over the past week, the situation in Rafah has been marked by intense conflict and significant international response​. An Israeli airstrike on a displaced persons camp in Rafah killed at least 45 people and injured hundreds. The strike targeted Hamas officials but resulted in high civilian casualties, drawing widespread condemnation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mistake” and the Israeli military pledged to investigate​. International leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and the European Union, have condemned the strike and called for adherence to international law. The Biden administration has also urged Israel to take all possible precautions to protect civilians during military operations​. However, the Biden administration has concluded that war crimes have not been committed according to the United States’ definition. Overall, geopolitical events remain very volatile. For now, we wait for the results of the OPEC+ meeting and go from there.

In local news, the EIA inventory report for last week released the following information. Crude Oil: 4.2M barrel draw / Gasoline: 2M build / Distillate: 2.5M build. The report was interpreted as bearish due to the increased inventories of finished products. Chicago continues to be over supplied with gasoline and diesel. Therefore, with the possibility of decreased demand, the Chicago Spot market sold-off again. I expect to see prices at the pump drop a bit next week.

In propane news, the EIA inventory report for last week released information showing a 2.1M barrel build. The build was lower than expectations and exports were at the 3rd highest volume ever reported in one week. Propane prices are continuing to firm up as national inventories have now fallen below last year’s levels at this same time of year. Next season’s heating contracts have been released. I highly recommend everyone topping off their tanks at the current value of propane compared to crude oil price.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Panning For Gold

Posted on by

Happy Friday!

I first would like to take a moment and wish everyone a safe Memorial Day weekend. I would also like to take a moment to remember all of our military veterans who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Our freedom comes at a price. No matter how difficult the struggles can be in our country, we are still the best country in the world.

Crude oil prices finished the week lower than last week. The move lower was based on poor economic data, as well as sticky inflation. Existing home sales in America fell in April, even as more supply hit the market. The FED also announced that rate cuts are a ways off due to inflation levels possibly rising. Some banks, such as Goldman Sachs, have adjusted their outlook to “no rate hikes in 2024.” In fact, there is growing sentiment that a possibility of a rate increase is on the table. There were also weak economic data announcements from China as well as Europe. The potential for a global economic slowdown won over oil traders in the first three days of the week. But the last two days of the week were all bullish. OPEC+ meets on June 2nd and rumblings are forming that an extension and maybe further production cuts will be put in place to keep WTI crude oil price above $80/barrel. In geopolitical news, the war in Gaza intensified as Israel continued their offensive in Rafah. The United States and others again pleaded with Israel to provide more protections to civilians in Rafah. In a rare announcement, The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for leaders from both Israel and Hamas, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The warrants target Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, and Ismail Haniyeh. Also, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a ruling against Israel, calling for measures to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza. In other recent developments, Spain, Ireland, Norway, Malta, Belgium, and Slovenia formally announced their recognition of Palestinian statehood. This collective effort is part of a broader strategy to support a two-state solution and address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel vehemently pushed back on all of the previously stated announcements and vowed to continue their as is, regardless of Western support. The accord between the US and Saudi Arabia to put pressure on Israel seems to be dead. The King of Saudi Arabia is sick, so MBS is staying close to home and focused on family. The war in Ukraine also had some developments this week. Zelenskyy signed laws enabling prisoners to join the army and increased penalties for draft evaders. He has also called for more air defense systems and advanced fighter jets from allies to achieve air parity with Russia. Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions continued, with Russia criticizing upcoming peace talks and asserting its military actions aim to create a buffer zone​. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, was dismissed from his position. President Zelenskyy made this decision as part of a significant military shake-up aimed at adapting Ukraine’s military strategy to current challenges and improving the effectiveness of the armed forces. In addition, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov submitted his resignation. The move is part of broader changes in Ukraine’s defense leadership as the country continues to address the evolving dynamics of the war with Russia​. All-in-all, there seems to be no positive change in Ukraine. Russia continues to gain ground and Ukraine is running out of steam to fight back. The geopolitical tensions in Israel and Ukraine offer a sort of support-floor for crude oil price. The week finished with WTI crude prices rising. One of the largest reasons was Pres Biden announcing the release of 1M barrels of gasoline into the US supply chain in order to lower gasoline prices for summer. The move actually caused prices to rise. The announcement was clearly politically motivated and not in the interest of supporting gasoline supply. The release of refined products under an executive order sent shivers down the spines of oil traders. If a President is releasing refined barrels into the supply chain, the potential for a supply crunch due to refineries going offline is increased, not decreased. In addition, 1M barrels of gasoline is about 42M gallons of gasoline. Here’s the fact: the US consumes at lease 375M gallons of gasoline a day. Therefore, the release covers just over 10% of our gasoline consumption for one day. Clearly the move is politically motivated and not in the best interest of protecting our nation’s supply of refined fuels. The announcement continued to push prices higher through Friday as many traders are starting to believe that most people will travel by auto/truck this summer for vacation as opposed to airline travel due to high-priced airfare. The increase in gasoline/diesel consumption puts pressure on a very tight refinery market and continued record exports. If we lose any refineries throughout the summer, prices of gasoline and diesel will skyrocket. So for now, I would enjoy the lower prices at the pump. I do not see prices of gasoline dropping below $3/gallon as Biden is hoping to achieve.

In local news, the Chicago spot market seems to be well supplied with gasoline and diesel. There were a few spot hiccups this week due to possible covering of positions with the change in cycle timing. But the Chicago spot market is showing some reliance at the moment. Retail prices in our region might go down a bit compared to other parts of the US. Again, everything hangs on the continued strength of refining capacity. Any loss of refining capacity in Chicago our local prices for gasoline and diesel will take off.

Propane spot and futures pricing are starting to find support. Both prices finished higher to end the week. Although inventories are in great shape, the amount of gains per week is not hitting predictions. Therefore, again, with any production shortfalls, propane inventories could start to move sideways due to the massive amounts of exports. Next season’s heating contracts are out right now! I suggest signing up for a contract and filling your tank now. The retail price of propane is the lowest in over a year, and next season’s contract prices are lower than this past winter! Even with inflation hitting energy prices, propane contract pricing for 2024-25 is lower than 2023-24! What a great economic relief for customers!

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Spaghetti At The Wall

Posted on by

Good afternoon!

Happy Friday! Well, the crude oil markets traded in a very range this week. WTI crude oil price fluctuated between $77/barrel and $79/barrel. WTI was looking to push through the $80/barrel support level, but just didn’t quite get the momentum….until today! On day close today, WTI price closed above $80/barrel for the first time in a month. Right now the majority of traders are still shorting WTI at $80/barrel. But if traders switch positions and go long at $80/barrel, WTI price will push through $80/barrel and probably move closer to $85/barrel. Seems like the traders are digesting a ton of spaghetti being thrown at the wall of the crude trade. There is plenty of news supporting higher prices, as well as some reports supporting lower prices. The support for higher prices includes Israel continuing their move on Rafah, along with the US sending another $1B in weaponry. Ukraine is receiving more weaponry for defense against RUssia. Russian petroleum exports have tightened due to Ukrainian attacks on refineries. China and Russia held a summit to solidify an alliance promising to resist all Western interference with trade as well occupation of territories close to both China and Russia. OPEC+ and others continue to call for increasing demand this summer that will slide crude oil inventories into deficit by year end. In bearish news, other agencies are calling for an economic slowdown in the US, China, and Europe. Any slowdown could put downward pressure on crude oil prices. However, FED cuts could provide support for higher prices due to the devaluation of the dollar. I am also convinced that no oil producer is going to let WTI price fall below $75/barrel. In addition, I believe Saudi Arabia and others will continue to implement supply cuts to prop up prices for the remainder of the year. Also, hurricane season and a presidential election are on the way! Get your popcorn and enjoy studying the spaghetti on the wall!

In local news, the Chicago spot market gave back a lot of spot basis this week. I expect to see retail prices on gasoline and diesel at the pump go up next week. I would suggest purchasing gasoline or diesel sooner than later. The Chicago spot basis is still 15 cents below our neighbors in the Group spot. Therefore, our Chicago market is still providing good value for gasoline and diesel prices.

Although crude prices traded narrowly, propane spot prices dropped a bit more but firmed up on the out months. Many suppliers are looking at a floor for futures saying they are unable to profit if the price gets much cheaper. What’s scary, is if that happens, producers will cut back on production. Right now inventories are healthy and we are experiencing a great balance between supply, demand, and exports. Spot price is holding great value and I recommend everyone filling their propane tank. Also, next season’s heating contract pricing will be available on Monday! Please call to setup your contract for the coming winter!

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford

Slow Creeper

Posted on by

Good morning!

Happy Friday! The past week did not have as much news as the week prior. The big news of the week was Israel rejecting a ceasefire deal from the negotiating group in Qatar. Israel is adamant that the remaining members of Hamas must be eliminated from Rafah. Estimates believe that there are three battalions of Hamas left hiding in Rafah. Each battalion is around 1,000 members. Pres Biden responded to Israel’s rejection of a ceasefire by withholding further weapons to Israel until Israel can release a battle plan that limits civilian casualties. Israel cut off the main supply route to Rafah. However, the humanitarian bridge that was built in the Mediterranean Sea is now functional. Therefore, aid should start to flow into Rafah to help the 1M residents sheltering in place. The accord that Pres Biden pitched to Saudi Arabia is DOA if Israel invades Rafah. Israel resounded to the United States weapon withholding by saying they will “go it alone” into Rafah. Since Israel’s announcement, Israel started targeted bombings in Rafah and asked all southern residents to evacuate. The conflict in Ukraine/Russia escalated a bit as Ukraine started to receive more weaponry support. Russia is reporting oil production issues, but is having no problem finding customers. China and India continue to buy all of Russia’s exports. In economic news, world crude oil production continues to barely meet demand. OPEC+ and United States producers are being very disciplined with their production. They do not want the world supply of oil to go into surplus. In addition, EIA reported a draw in crude oil inventories on Wednesday. The FED also signaled that maybe rate cuts could come sooner than end of the year. Crude oil prices did not pop as expected with all the action in Israel/Gaza. Instead, crude oil prices slowly crept higher from their lowest price in almost a year. WTI Crude Oil price is BARELY holding below $80/barrel. I expect any escalation in the Middle East region or Ukraine/Russia will push WTI price back above $80/barrel.

In local news, the Chicago Spot market continues to be tight on gasoline supplies. Gasoline prices have dropped a little bit, but not as much as diesel prices. Diesel production remains high and surplus-supply is starting to develop. However, demand for diesel is picking up as farmers hit the fields and construction projects fire up around the Midwest. I expect to see little movement in spot prices of gasoline and diesel. The spot market will probably start to move in tandem with the price of crude oil. Diesel spot prices are holding incredible value. I highly recommend purchasing spot diesel at these current prices.

Propane spot prices dropped to their lowest price in over six months this week. But a floor of support seems to be developing. Just like spot price diesel, spot propane price is holding incredible value right now. I suggest considering purchasing spot propane at these current rates. Next season’s heating contracts should be out next week or the following. Stay tuned for more info.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to give us a call.

Best regards,

Jon Crawford