
Northwest European Gasoline Margins Extend Gains, Closing Above $43
Gasoline refining margins in Northwest Europe rose for a second straight session on Friday, climbing by $1.74 to settle at $43.39 per barrel amid active regional trading.
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Gasoline refining margins in Northwest Europe rose for a second straight session on Friday, climbing by $1.74 to settle at $43.39 per barrel amid active regional trading.

The main sea freight index for dry bulk commodities posted a daily gain, driven by the capesize segment, but recorded a significant weekly loss due to prior declines in rates for larger vessels.

Satellite imagery has revealed two new oil slicks in the Gulf near Iran, with one linked to a recently attacked vessel, escalating environmental risks in a key global shipping lane. The incidents occur as a separate, massive spill continues to unfold off the coast of Oman.

The main sea freight index for dry bulk commodities posted a weekly loss of over 7%, pressured by falling rates for larger vessels, even as it snapped a four-day losing streak on Friday.

Hundreds have been evacuated from tourist resorts in Croatia and Greece as wildfires spread across Europe, fueled by record heat that is also projected to drive French maize production to its lowest level since the 1970s.

Oil prices are on track for a weekly increase of over 4% after the U.S. threatened an indefinite naval blockade of Iran, escalating Middle East tensions and raising concerns over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.

Recent U.S. inflation reports have lowered market expectations for a September interest rate hike, boosting equities. However, high long-term Treasury auction yields and persistent inflation pressures signal that underlying economic anxieties remain.

Citigroup analysts see an improving environment for gold as U.S. interest rates appear to be peaking, but advise investors to wait for prices to consolidate before increasing exposure after a recent sharp rally.

Russia's Foreign Ministry has dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire in the Black Sea, stating there are no grounds for measures that would offer Ukraine a respite. The rejection comes as both nations have increased attacks on commercial shipping, impacting global grain markets.