Focus Talk with Alain de Botton

Brent fell below $76/b last week after the U.S. and Iran reached an initial agreement, easing some of the war-related risk premium. However, uncertainty remains over the Strait of Hormuz, the conflict in Lebanon, and whether energy flows can return to normal, leaving markets caught between short-term supply risks and…

Oil markets eased sharply after the US and Iran agreed the outline of an interim deal, although the agreement has not yet been formally signed and key details remain unpublished. President Trump announced the removal of the US naval blockade and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, while Pakistan…

Brent crude briefly approached $98/bbl after renewed military exchanges between Iran and Israel heightened concerns over Middle East supply risks. Iran launched rockets following Israeli strikes in Beirut, while Israel subsequently targeted Iranian military sites despite reported US efforts to restrain escalation. Please note: this podcast is provided for information…

Brent crude has recovered to around $93.50/bbl after falling below $90 last week on optimism that a US-Iran ceasefire agreement could ease tensions in the Gulf. However, reports of further negotiations, renewed military action around the Strait of Hormuz, and concerns over mine clearance have tempered expectations of a swift…

Brent crude fell sharply this week after reports suggested the US and Iran are close to agreeing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and potentially ease sanctions on Iranian oil exports. Prices dropped from around $105/bbl to $96/bbl before recovering towards $98/bbl following limited US and Israeli strikes…