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📰 Today’s Market News – For Midwest Farmers

🔒 IEA Stands Ready in Case of Oil Disruption

The International Energy Agency (IEA) says the world has enough oil for now—but if the conflict between Israel and Iran worsens and threatens supply, they’re ready to step in. Since the 1970s, the IEA has kept large emergency stockpiles just for this kind of situation—over 1.2 billion barrels worldwide. These reserves are meant to protect the global economy from sudden oil shortages and price spikes.

⛴️ Shipping Warnings in the Strait of Hormuz

With tensions rising in the Middle East, oil tankers are being advised to steer clear of Iranian waters near the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping lane where nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through. Some ships are now hugging Oman’s coastline instead, and reports of GPS interference in the area have raised even more concern. Any disruption here could shake up oil prices and global supply lines.

🇨🇳 China Buys Discounted Oil from Iran

As oil prices have jumped nearly 20% this month, Iran is now offering China big discounts on crude to keep shipments moving. With prices climbing, some of China’s smaller refiners are pulling back, which has forced Iran to lower prices even more—up to $3.50 off per barrel compared to global benchmarks. This move is helping Iran compete and move inventory despite global uncertainty.

💲 Market Snapshot

Iran says it won’t talk about its nuclear plans while it’s under threat from Israeli attacks, adding to the already tense situation. Meanwhile, heating oil prices are rising faster than gasoline or crude this morning—up about 2%—as traders worry about possible supply disruptions in the Middle East. Israel continues to strike targets in Tehran, and reports suggest President Trump may be weighing U.S. military action. A decision could come in the next two weeks.

📈 Energy Highlights – WTI Price Trends Over the Last 5 Years

• 2021–2022 (Post-COVID): Oil prices skyrocketed over $100 a barrel as demand roared back after the pandemic.

• 2022–2023: Prices stayed high but started to settle in the $70–$90 range as markets adjusted to supply and demand changes.

• 2024–2025: Crude oil has been mostly steady between $65 and $70 per barrel—until recent tensions pushed prices back toward the $80 mark. Any new disruptions could cause another jump.

📞 Want to know what this could mean for your farm fuel budget? Give your account manager a call—we’re here to help you stay ahead.