Venezuela has surged to become India’s third-largest crude oil supplier this May, surpassing Saudi Arabia and the US. Indian refiners are boosting purchases of cheaper Venezuelan heavy crude due to its attractive economics and compatibility with complex refineries. This shift comes as West Asia conflict disrupts traditional shipping routes, prompting India to diversify its oil
The Reserve Bank of India aggressively intervened, selling billions to defend the rupee against sustained pressure. This significant dollar selling, even before markets opened, helped the currency strengthen. Elevated oil prices remain a key concern, with policymakers considering further measures, including a potential interest rate hike, to stabilize the rupee.
A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a severe global energy crisis, potentially pushing oil prices to $200 per barrel by late 2026. Wood Mackenzie’s report outlines three scenarios, with the worst-case predicting a significant economic contraction. This warning echoes Iran’s own earlier predictions amid escalating regional tensions.
Asian markets rallied Friday, buoyed by hopes of US-Iran peace talks, though volatile oil prices and Strait of Hormuz concerns fueled inflation worries. Tokyo led gains as investor sentiment improved. Despite diplomatic optimism, rising crude prices prompted reassessment of global interest rate expectations, with the US Federal Reserve potentially hiking rates later this year.
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Oil prices surged Friday amid lingering uncertainty over US-Iran peace talks and ongoing concerns about supply disruptions via the Strait of Hormuz. Despite recent gains, benchmarks are set for a weekly dip. While gaps in negotiations have narrowed, any toll system in the Strait is deemed unacceptable.
