WTI crude has settled above $110 per barrel after a sharp rally, fueled by fears of an Iran blockade and threats to the Strait of Hormuz—the key chokepoint for 20% of global oil flows. The market now trades pure supply disruption risk over traditional fundamentals. Latest API data confirmed physical tightening: US inventories plunged 6.2 million barrels against -2.8 million expected, exports hit a record 6.4 million b/d, and gasoline stocks have fallen for 11 straight weeks. This is no longer hypothetical— the market is genuinely squeezing.

Geopolitics has fully seized control: every Iran headline triggers 3–10% swings, creating crypto-like volatility instead of steady trends. Meanwhile, China and India aggressively stockpile for strategic reserves, building extra structural demand. Even de-escalation won't trigger a sharp drop, providing a solid price floor.
The energy shock directly complicates Fed policy: recent statements highlighted persistent inflation from oil, dimming odds of early rate cuts. The chain is straightforward: oil up → CPI up → rates higher for longer → stronger USD, further pressuring commodities. IEA flags the largest supply disruption in years (7–9 million b/d offline), though it cut 2026 demand forecasts amid recession risks.
Scenarios: Bullish base range $105–125 if conflict drags on. Bearish plunge to $85–95 only on Strait reopening. Extreme spike to $130–150+ awaits full supply cutoff. Key takeaway—the market is now news-driven: 70% geopolitics, 20% physical stocks, 10% macro.
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