Refinery Turnarounds
Major US refiners have begun their February maintenance cycles. This reduction in throughput is expected to help clear the current winter-grade inventory overhang, supporting wholesale prices even as retail pump prices remain near $2.90.
Consumer Price Deflation
The EIA projects a broadly deflationary environment for motor fuels in 2026. Stable energy costs are expected to act as a significant tailwind for consumer spending and the transportation sector throughout the first half of the year.