Gasoline RBOB Futures Hold Steady Amid Rising Refining Profitability

Refinery Margins and Consumer Relief

High refinery utilization is flooding the domestic market with light ends. This surplus is providing relief for consumers, with retail averages likely to stay below $3.00 in most non-West Coast regions throughout the winter months.

Ethanol Influence

The inclusion of 10% ethanol continues to lower the final retail price. With ethanol averaging $1.90/gal, the final blended cost for regular gasoline remains highly competitive against recent historical norms.