Geopolitical War Premium
New security alerts in the Persian Gulf have kept a risk premium of $4-$5 per barrel active. While non-OPEC production growth remains a long-term headwind, the immediate risk of a shipping disruption is currently driving the market.
Refinery Throughput Demand
US Gulf Coast refineries are maintaining high run rates to capitalize on strong gasoline crack spreads, creating a steady demand for domestic barrels despite the broader macro cooling.