Search Results
for Matt Piotrowski | @mattpiotrowski - The Fuse
Keep the Car Running: Transportation Costs Hit Indie Musicians
Artists may suffer a number of setbacks as a result of rising fuel prices, particularly independent musicians whose livelihoods are made on the road.
EPRI's Dan Bowermaster on EV Adoption and the Importance of Alternative Fuels
Dan Bowermaster is a program manager for Electric Transportation with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). He speaks to The Fuse about EPRI, electrical vehicle adoption, and misconceptions about EVs.
No Surprises: Analysts Say Oil May Hit $150
It’s not inevitable that oil prices will hit $150, but there should be no surprises if they rally to that level, or higher.
Trump, OPEC, and the Oil Market's Razor Thin Spare Capacity
The oil market could be sorely tested in the second half of the year and into 2019, unless demand slows, OPEC outages are less than expected, or non-OPEC producers such as the United States, Canada, and Brazil produce higher than forecast.
New ETF Seeks to Take Advantage of Growing Demand for Battery Metals
Investors want exposure to companies that are involved in the production and distribution of battery metals, particularly with electric vehicles underpinning demand.
Saudi Energy Minister: Global Oil Market Needs Increase of 1 Mbd
Global oil markets are in danger of seeing a large supply deficit in the second half of 2018, increasing the need for more OPEC supply.
Industry Panel Emphasizes Continued Global Energy Demand Growth; Investment Needs
As "Peak Demand" has faded from the industry dialogue, international oil companies examine how to meet growing global energy demand while keeping prices low.
Report Provides Comprehensive View on the Cost and Benefits of Self-Driving Technologies
A new report estimates that autonomous vehicles will add between $3 to $6 trillion in cumulative consumer and societal benefits to the U.S. economy by 2050.
OPEC Mulls Output Increase, Prices Could Swing Either Way in Response
OPEC members are split over whether to change strategy, as global oil markets are trading just under $80 per barrel and consuming countries are pressuring producers to increase output.
Public Charging Infrastructure Network Developing as States, Utilities Take Initiative
With EV sales continuing to rise and more fleet operators seeing the economic benefits of electrification, governments are increasing their public charging infrastructure investments.
U.S. Gasoline Spending on Pace to Surpass 2014 Levels
Consumers will spend more than $400 billion on motor fuel by the end of September on an annualized basis, up 36 percent from two years ago.
OPEC’s Relevance Grows Despite Shale
In today's global oil market, price movements, in either direction, are largely dependent on OPEC's actions and verbal intervention. Current political and market dynamics make it clear that shale was never a panacea.
Report: Electrification in Trucking Sector to Grow Quickly
Battery electric trucks are not the choice for every application and market, but they will likely have an increasing role in the commercial vehicle market and in freight transportation in the coming decades.
U.S. Consumers Grapple With High Gasoline Prices Heading Into Summer Driving Season
American consumers plan to change their driving habits throughout the summer due to increased gasoline prices.
Venture Capitalists Pour Money Into Urban Mobility to Solve ‘Last-Mile’ Issue
With the “last-mile” problem having vexed urban dwellers for decades, venture capitalists are seizing the opportunity to fund projects that could fill in gaps that public transit cannot meet.
How High Can Oil Prices Go?
Oil prices are currently underpinned by unplanned supply outages, OPEC manipulation, geopolitical uncertainty, limited spare capacity, rising demand, and speculative buying.
Electric Vehicles Support U.S. Manufacturing, Jobs
A new report from the Argonne National Laboratory found a higher fraction of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) were assembled in the United States than non-PEVs in 2017.
Iran Sanctions Add More Risk to Oil Markets as OPEC Continues to Cut
Global oil markets are contending with a number of uncertainties as U.S. gasoline prices are already 44 cents per gallon higher than year-ago levels.
A Long, Litigious Road on Fuel Economy Is the Worst Outcome for All Stakeholders
The auto industry is reportedly conveying to the administration that it wants to seek a compromise with California in order to avoid two different fuel economy standards.
Blockchain and Electric Vehicle Charging
Using blockchain technology, peer-to-peer networks have established marketplaces to connect EV drivers so they can share charging stations with each other.
Panel: Investor Trepidation Could Slow Saudi Reforms
Although Saudi Arabia is seeking to launch an IPO of its state-owned oil company and wants to overhaul its entire economy, foreign investors may balk at the opportunity.
President Trump’s Tweet Calls Attention to OPEC’s Actions
President Trump’s tweet Friday morning shifted the debate about rising gasoline prices, the effects on American consumers, and OPEC’s role in the global oil markets.
ESLC Profile: Waste Management
Waste Management, headquartered in Houston, has been an industry leader in transitioning to alternative sources of fuel. Its fleet includes an increasing number of vehicles that run on CNG and other renewable transportation fuels.
Uber Expands Services to Help End Car Ownership in Cities
At an event this week in Washington, DC, Uber’s CEO announced a number of new initiatives and partnerships, reinforcing the company’s strategy of expanding beyond its core business as a ride-hailing service.
New York Targets Shared Mobility in Manhattan Congestion Initiative
Congestion fees have a number of both pros and cons, and are controversial for city planners and transportation service providers. They can be effective in the goal of reducing gridlock, but they also raise the cost of travel and limit access.
Amalto Technologies on Blockchain in the Oil Industry
Amalto Technologies, which provides blockchain technology to energy companies, speaks to The Fuse about cloud management, tokenization, and automation in the oil industry.
As Saudi-Russia Connection Tightens, Importance of Maintaining Fuel Economy Standards Grows
Modernized fuel-efficiency standards have been a cornerstone of energy policy since the 1970s, reducing the negative effects of petrostates on the U.S. economy.
India Scales Back EV Ambitions, But Heads in Right Direction
Even though India’s vision of an all-electric future is bumping up against reality, the country is moving in the right direction to diversify its car fleet as population grows and the demand for oil rises faster than in any other market.
New Benchmark Will Likely Succeed Over Time, Give China More Market Power
Beijing’s motivations for establishing a crude oil benchmark are complex, with economic, domestic, and geopolitical considerations taken into account. China’s drive for the contract to flourish will be persistent, giving it a greater chance of long-term success.
Rising Oil Prices, Geopolitical Risk Serve as Crucial Reminder on Fuel Economy
The geopolitical events of today are a perfect reminder of why the country must not come to an impasse over fuel efficiency standards.
Blockchain and Oil Trading
Incumbent firms in the energy sector, such as oil majors and commodity merchants, are experimenting with blockchain technology, and see it as a disruptive data solution that will alter the logistics of oil trading.
Electrification and Autonomy in the Spotlight at ARPA-E Summit
The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has demonstrated its importance by providing pivotal grants to projects that would not be able to get funding elsewhere.
Why Have EVs Taken Off in Some Markets but Not Others?
A favorable political environment is needed to support electric vehicle policies, and countries must be wealthy enough to afford subsidies. EV policy also needs to be clear and sustained to give consumers and automakers certainty.
OPEC Meets With U.S. Producers as It Ponders Next Move
OPEC officials warn that underinvestment may lead to a price spike, but major oil producers do not have a strategy to meet longer-term demand growth.
Caution Over Optimism on Shale Production
Circumstances in the oil markets are expected to change, perhaps dramatically, early next decade. While U.S. production is expected to grow by a massive 2.5 Mbd in 2018-19, increases will thereafter slow considerably.
Key Takeaways from CSIS Shale Event
The divergence in shale forecasts stems from differences over macroeconomic assumptions, price expectations, the supply chain outlook, and productivity projections.
Nigeria Bribery Scandal Reflects Cost of Doing Business in Petrostates
High-ranking officials of two major IOCs will go on trial in Milan for bribing Nigerian officials to secure lucrative contracts, marking the third major corruption scandal that has touched large oil companies in recent years.
ESLC Profile: Admiral Dennis Blair
Admiral Dennis Blair served in the Navy until 2002 and was commander in chief of U.S. forces in the Pacific region. He also served in the White House during the Reagan administration and was appointed the Director of National Intelligence from 2009-10.
Popularity of Ride-Hailing Rises Globally
Ride-hailing’s popularity has prompted some consumers to delay or avoid buying their own personal vehicle. The rapid growth in ride-sharing, along with the potential of AVs, may have a profound effect on fuel consumption.
Rage Against the Shale Boom: The Move to Institutionalize the Vienna Group
Although they have been caught off guard by U.S. growth, OPEC members and their non-OPEC partners have successfully regrouped and will likely be well positioned if fundamentals eventually tighten even more.
Auto Industry’s Focus in Hiring Talent Shifts With Self-Driving Vehicles
The quickly changing marketplace in the auto industry has brought about challenges for companies to recruit the necessary talent for autonomous-vehicle research and innovation.
Autonomous Vehicles Require Less Human Intervention, But Federal Metrics Necessary
New data from California shows advancement in the volume and quality of AV activity, but disengagement reports are an imperfect measure and the reporting does not include activities on private roads and outside the state.
Strong Jet Fuel Demand to Have Long-Term Impacts on Global Oil Market
Jet fuel demand growth appears guaranteed in coming decades with increased aviation travel and limited substitutes in this area.
Efforts to Reduce SPR Are Misguided
Dealing with the country’s energy security vulnerabilities requires sustained and targeted involvement by the federal government. The SPR plays an important role in insulating the U.S. economy from a volatile and unpredictable global oil market
ESLC Profile: General James Conway
General James Conway’s background as a Marine motivated him to engage in the cause of oil dependence because of its negative effects on national security.
Automation, Big Data Improve Shale Efficiency, Alter Jobs Outlook in Oil & Gas Sector
Since the price downturn, companies have prioritized digital technologies, artificial intelligence, automation, robots and drones, connectivity, and data analytics in their budgets.
What 10 Million Barrels Per Day Does—and Doesn’t—Mean
The remarkable shift in U.S. production should be celebrated, but it is also important to remember how much surrounding energy security has not changed. More than 90 percent of the transportation is fueled by petroleum, and consumers are still vulnerable to price swings and supply outages on the global market.
China’s SUV Sales Rise Sharply, Underpin Gasoline Demand
Despite the rise in EV sales in China, long-term trends of a rising population and a growing middle class will increase the country’s appetite for petroleum.
Weaker Dollar Hurts Purchasing Power of OPEC Countries, Helps Shale
The weaker dollar has large implications for oil-exporting countries, particularly those in OPEC, as it cuts their purchasing power.
Public Opinion Shifts on Autonomous Vehicles
Multiple longitudinal surveys show that Americans are warming up to the idea of riding in AVs as automakers pour money into self-driving technology and companies have conducted public education campaigns on the safety benefits of autonomy.
OPEC: New and Improved?
Smaller producers are eager to work with OPEC or join the cartel in an effort to boost their reputation, amplify their market clout, and gather research, information, and resources to attract investment.
Tough Sell: A Cryptocurrency Backed by Oil
The current moment is a questionable time to launch a new cryptocurrency. Beyond the current collapse in value, other vulnerabilities have emerged: Young markets mean that blockchains are highly vulnerable to being compromised.
Petrostates, International Soccer, and Soft Power
Major oil producing countries, and wealthy individuals in certain petrostates, have injected billions of dollars into soccer clubs, mostly in European leagues, and their reach is spreading in an attempt to promote their “soft power.”
Trucks, Tunnels & Drones: Automation in Freight Transportation to Bring Significant Rewards, Risks
Driverless trucks, computerized drones, and automated underground systems have the potential to help meet rising freight demand in the coming decades.
System-Wide Innovation in Transportation Sector to Unlock Economic and Social Benefits
Panelists at an event on Capitol Hill emphasized the importance of taking advantage of today’s environment to shape technological changes in the transportation sector for the benefit of the public interest and to mitigate any unintended consequences.
Polish Refinery’s Imports of U.S. Crude Send Strong Signal to Moscow
With purchases of U.S. crude, European countries are able to reduce Russia’s leverage and force Moscow to negotiate and be more cooperative.
Trump Administration Proposes Large Expansion of Offshore Drilling
As offshore drilling is expanded, it is important that companies and regulators maintain the most rigorous performance, safety, and environmental standards.
Rising Production and Higher Prices Don’t Resolve Shale Sector’s Woes
The expected boom in shale output masks a list of underlying problems that confront the sector. Most companies are still not generating positive cash flow and remain highly dependent on borrowing from the debt markets.
Toyota Pivots to Aggressive EV Strategy
Toyota aims to sell 5.5 million electric vehicles per year by 2030 and invest $13 billion to reach this objective. The company’s long-term plan is another step in making EVs mainstream and laying a foundation for mass penetration in the future.
Top Oil Market Developments in 2017 & Key Uncertainties for 2018
Oil markets surprised this past year with higher-than-anticipated prices, & next year will likely bring even more unanticipated events and volatility. Here are some of the top market developments of the past year and key issues for 2018.
Colombia’s Lost Opportunity
The volatile nature of oil prices, widespread opposition to new projects, and the uncertainty of local and national politics make it crucial for Colombia to diversify its economy.
Houston Becomes Major Trading Hub as U.S. Crude Exports Soar
The boom in crude exports & the increased relevance of Houston in the trading world reflect significant improvements in energy security. But it’s important to keep the changes in context: The U.S. still imports a large amount of crude oil.
More Questions Surface About the Health of the Shale Industry
Shale has upended global energy markets but two questions remain unanswered: Can it be called upon to meet demand growth, and will it ever be profitable?
Nigeria’s Prepayment Deals With Traders Necessary to Support Economic Goals
The fact that Nigeria is considering prepayment deals with traders these deals is significant. It reflects how countries that are highly dependent on oil income are taking extraordinary measures to maintain stability while oil prices are relatively low.
Plans for Auto Makers, Tech Companies Reinforce Link Between Autonomy & Electrification
The latest developments from Uber and GM, and other firms in the self-driving race, indicate autonomous vehicles are helping drive efficiency and accelerating the use of EVs.
Despite OPEC’s Reassurances, Market Uncertainty to Persist With Output Cut Extension
A clumsy exit strategy, producers cheating on quotas, or a rapid response from U.S. shale producers could undermine the effectiveness of the deal. Conversely, the potential for higher prices is also a stark possibility.
Are Oil Markets Heading Into a ‘Decade of Disorder’?
At an event hosted by Securing America’s Future Energy, experts warned that a combination of underinvestment in long-cycle conventional petroleum projects and rising geopolitical risk may significantly increase prices next decade.
OPEC’s Roller Coaster Ride
As OPEC and its non-OPEC allies gather in Vienna this week, it will mark the three-year anniversary of the cartel’s pivotal decision to produce all out and allow prices to fall sharply.
Market Uncertainty Ahead as OPEC Looks to Extend Production Cut Through 2018
OPEC will attempt to manage perceptions in both the physical and financial markets—but given its track record, it will not likely produce stability and certainty, but instead ambiguity and volatility.
How EVs, Fuel Economy & Autonomy Could Significantly Alter Long-Term Oil Demand Outlook
Two major forecasters see a sharp penetration of EVs in the next couple of decades. Although the outlook for EVs and the transportation sector is improving quickly, oil demand is likely to continue to grow.
Geopolitical Risk and Lost Production
When producers that are inherently prone to conflict and resource nationalism lose supply, output will most likely not return to previous levels.
Study: Put Autonomous Vehicles on Roads Sooner Rather Than Later
"The more miles that autonomous vehicles travel—on different roads, in different environments, and under various weather conditions—the more quickly their safety improves."
Bans on Internal Combustion Engines May Backfire
Even with an entirely different landscape due to EVs becoming a greater part of the fleet, there is essentially no way to avoid the fact that ICE vehicles will be around for a very long time.
Saudi's Arabia's Destabilizing Game of Petro-Thrones
One consequence of Saudi Arabia's “anti-corruption” purge is a more hawkish foreign policy and increased tension with Iran. With the U.S.’s national security and economic well-being vulnerable to instability in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, measures to strengthen energy security and reduce oil dependence are increasingly imperative.
Autonomous Vehicle Exemptions, Explained
Exemptions allow companies to think outside the traditional vehicle box and produce safer and more fuel efficient and diverse fleets.
Oil Returns to $60
OPEC has changed not only fundamental dynamics of the oil market, but the entire narrative: There’s very little, if any, talk about “lower for longer”—the issues currently rattling the market are not going away any time soon.
Venezuela’s Output in Danger of Falling by Another 800,000 b/d
There’s little question the global market will lose more production from Venezuela in the coming months and years. The country's crude output is at risk of falling to as low as 1.2 million barrels per day.
Cancellations, Delays of Capital-Intensive Projects Pose Long-Term Risks
The world still needs massive investment—all along the supply chain—to keep future price spikes from occurring and for countries to improve their energy security. But many in the industry have become more restrained in making big investments.
China’s Crude Benchmark Key in Developing the Yuan’s Power
The petrodollar system isn’t going to be turned upside down overnight, but China’s rising status will continue to disrupt the status quo, sending a powerful message that the country seeks to consolidate its strength as an economic superpower.
U.S. Refining Rebounds from Hurricanes, Returns to Market Dominance
The structural shift in the U.S. refined products markets throughout this decade—with the U.S. becoming a net exporter—has benefited consumers, the country’s manufacturing sector, and the trade balance.
Seizure of Kirkuk Serves as Reminder of Oil Market’s Geopolitical Vulnerabilities
The recent tension in Iraq highlights the ongoing reality of the global oil market: Many key oil-producing countries are politically unstable.
Saudis Playing the Long Game as Economy Sinks Into Recession
Despite the effects from the OPEC production cut and austerity measures, Saudi Arabia can ride out the current economic headwinds without having to switch market strategy. That outcome, though, is not a certainty since there are factors that could further negatively impact the Saudi economy.
OPEC Touts Its Oil Market Manipulation
Saudi Arabia is poised to make "unprecedented" cuts to customers next month, while OPEC's secretary-general suggests the cartel may take "extraordinary measures" to further tighten oil market fundamentals.
EVs Rolling Off Used Car Lots at a Brisk Pace
As more used electric vehicles become available and the price points remain enticing, consumers will continue to show interest in snapping up used EVs.
Trucks Emerging as Next Frontier for Electric Vehicles
With commercial trucks, owners are looking to save costs without compromising performance, making electrification a viable option.
Vehicle Miles Traveled and Ridesharing
Factors other than ridesharing carry more weight behind the surge in VMT. Lower pump prices, economic growth, and rising household income are underpinning increased travel.
Aramco’s Market Power to Grow With Expansion of Trading Unit
Saudi Arabia’s plans to buy and sell third-party crude prompt concerns about how widely Aramco will expand its trading apparatus and how it will use its market power.
OPEC’s False Narrative
OPEC is trying to spin recent price developments to show that it is fostering market stability in an effort to assist both consumers and producers. But recent talk of a more balanced market creates a false narrative
EIA’s Outlook Implies Upside Risks for Oil Prices
Although oil would surpass $200 per barrel under its high-price scenario, the EIA sees little effect in curbing demand growth.
Commodity Watchdog Remains in Flux as Trading World Evolves
The slowdown in action at the CFTC is worrisome since it comes at a time of large growth in financial markets, including petroleum futures, which are susceptible to manipulation and aggressive trading tactics.
Fights Break Out at Gasoline Stations in Texas, Florida
Like a scene out of the movie Zoolander, fights have occurred at gasoline stations in hurricane-affected areas.
OPEC Set to Extend Cuts as Fundamentals, Price Move in Cartel’s Direction
When discussing the “success” surrounding OPEC’s cuts, it’s important to remember where the market was at the beginning of 2016, when prices fell below $30. Now, prices are in the mid-$50s, reflecting the impact of OPEC's actions.
Nuvve CEO on Vehicle-to-Grid Technology, Energy Storage, and Autonomy
Vehicle-to-grid technology will be a main factor in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles, according to the CEO of a start-up dedicated to EV integration.
National Drive Electric Week Set to Showcase Massive Growth Potential of EVs
This year’s National Drive Electric Week comes as more governments are aiming to move away from conventional vehicles in the next couple of decades, EV sales are seeing enormous growth, and forecasters are bullish on their long-term outlook
At EPA Hearing, Testimonies Focus on Economic, National Security Benefits of Stricter Fuel Economy
'Fuel economy regulations are a preemptive strike against collusion and market-distorting behavior. In fact, current regulations will eliminate 12 billion barrels of oil imports between 2015 and 2040.'
Waymo’s Fake City Shows How AV Testing Is Quickly Evolving
The huge benefits of virtual simulations are that they help adjust for weaknesses of real-world trials and experiments, where not every single scenario can be tested.
Colonial Pipeline Shutdown and SPR Release Highlight Ongoing Energy Security Risks
Outages from Hurricane Harvey and the subsequent price volatility provide a reminder that despite the enormous changes on the U.S. supply side over the past decade, the country is still dealing with energy security vulnerabilities.
As EV Sales Surge, Government Support Still Crucial to Meet Ambitious Goals
The car industry is moving forward with new EV models, governments have set aggressive targets, and consumers are becoming more comfortable with the new technology, bringing about ideal conditions for electric cars to continue to thrive, even with low oil prices.
Hurricane Harvey Takes Aim at U.S. Refining Sector
Harvey’s effects on the nation’s energy infrastructure are wide-ranging, forcing a large swath of refining capacity to shut.
Pilot Program in Denmark Reflects Large Upside for Vehicle-to-Grid Technology
The growth of EVs and plug-in hybrids, and the expectations for deeper penetration in coming decades, will result in the potential of feeding energy stored in vehicle batteries back to the electrical grid to smooth peaks and valleys in electricity demand.
Diesel: Don’t Throw the Baby Out with the Bathwater
Despite the behavior that led to the 2015 VW scandal and its continued fallout, diesel remains an efficient fuel that can reduce total petroleum consumption, and is still a viable part of a larger strategy to reduce oil dependence.
Energy Economist Ed Hirs on U.S.’ Oil Dependence, the State of Shale, & Reliance on OPEC
Ed Hirs, an energy economist from the University of Houston, talks to The Fuse about the dangers of oil supply disruptions and OPEC's impact on shale.
Small Firms Bypass Shale for Older Conventional Oil Fields
Some producers are turning more toward conventional plays, in particular older oil fields that can be tapped with new technology and provide quicker paybacks and more predictable long-term returns.
Industry Giant Waste Management Carries on With Aggressive CNG Push
For every diesel truck replaced with natural gas, Waste Management cuts consumption of diesel by an average of 8,000 gallons per year.
When Will Oil Prices Break Out of This Narrow Range?
The current stability is relatively rare for the oil market, which is prone to rampant volatility for numerous reasons. When the market eventually breaks out, it could do so aggressively.
Lyft’s New Lab, Corporate Partnerships Open up New Avenues in Autonomy
It’s too soon to fully realize how autonomous cars will open new avenues of commerce and change consumers’ relationships with retail, but Lyft’s recent actions give a glimpse into what the future might hold.
Earnings Show Small Cracks in U.S. Oil Industry
Independent producers are struggling to hit output targets at current price levels while the majors are focusing on becoming more efficient.
Oil Looms Large Over Venezuela’s Constitutional Crisis
Venezuela has fallen apart as a result of corruption and ineptitude, but even more so because of its over-reliance on oil as a revenue source. Some 95 percent of the country’s export revenue comes from oil.
UPDATE: The House’s Autonomous Vehicle Legislation: What to Know
Lawmakers are tackling AV issues such as federal preemption, safety standards, and exemptions for automakers, among other key concerns.
Argentina’s Shale Ambitions Tied to Mid-Term Elections, Political Stability
Risks for companies operating in Argentina have fallen considerably in recent years, but the political environment could throw a wrench in energy development at any time. The mid-term elections in October are the next big flashpoint.
OPEC Still Trying to Get What It Wants
OPEC’s gamble to cut production to shore up prices has not worked out the way members thought it would, but the cartel cannot be faulted for not trying. The inadequacy of its policy in the first part of 2017 means that OPEC will do whatever it takes during the second half of the year to achieve its goals.
Are Recent U.S. Crude Draws the Result of a Normal Seasonal Decline or a Delayed Effect of OPEC’s cut?
Crude stock draws are not out of the ordinary for this time of the year, but it appears that some OPEC members restricting supply has begun to bite the U.S. market.
Do Foreign-Owned Refining Assets Undermine U.S. Energy Security?
The possibility that Russia may soon own refineries in the U.S. if Venezuela’s PDVSA defaults on its loans from Rosneft has pushed the risks of foreign-owned energy assets in the U.S. into the spotlight. As of now, some 30 percent of U.S. refining capacity is owned by foreign companies.
Investment Pours Into Vehicle Tech as Focus Centers on Autonomy
Global investment in auto-tech firms totaled $1.6 billion for the first half of 2017, more than double the same time last year.
Key Takeaways from IEA’s Investment Report
Electricity and renewable investments fell modestly last year, but the lower price environment over the past three years has taken a particular toll on upstream oil and gas outlays.
North Dakota’s Economy Looks to Escape Oil’s Boom-Bust Cycles
North Dakota is looking to manage its resources and finances prudently to keep as much damage from oil price volatility at bay and develop longer-term sustainable growth through deeper economic diversification.
Groundhog Year for OPEC
It’s groundhog year for the OPEC cartel, which has been unable to structurally shift fundamentals and prices in its favor since the price collapse in mid-2014, and it is reliving its catch-22 scenario with competing producers.
EV Sales Finish H1 With a Robust June as Longer-term Outlook Brightens
Although overall car sales in the U.S. are now in a “post-peak” era and likely to stagnate, EV purchases are expected to rise significantly in the coming decades.
Short-Term Thinking in Oil Industry Collides With Broader, Long-Run Transportation Vision
Both the oil and car industries require deep capital investments and long lead times, and at times are rocked by global macroeconomic forces beyond their control. Right now, they are taking opposite strategies.
Panelists: Autonomous Vehicles Will Change Perceptions of EVs
Given the natural synergies between autonomous vehicles and EVs, the growing interest and recognition of self-driving cars will spur a greater acceptance of electrification.
With ‘Energy Dominance’ in the Spotlight, Don’t Forget Demand-Side Initiatives
While there is no doubt that the U.S. has become an energy superpower, the main priority of the country should be strengthening overall energy security. One metric is the level of fuel choice in the transportation sector, which gives options to consumers and businesses so that they are not dependent on only petroleum.
Key Issues to Follow in This Week's Energy and Interior Budget Debates
On the agenda at budget hearings this week will be energy innovation, the proper size of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), offshore drilling, and oil production on public lands.
Witnesses at Senate Hearing Argue for a Federal Framework for AVs, More Flexibility for Testing
Legislators are concerned with balancing safety and innovation, while helping industry accelerate the development and deployment of AVs on U.S. roadways.
How Can East Coast Refiners Reduce Imports From OPEC? Pipelines from the Bakken Are Key
One solution to reducing dependence on imports would be to build pipeline capacity connecting the Bakken area to refineries on the East Coast.
Options Market Is Not Buying OPEC’s Game
Although some hold onto bullish sentiment, traders are skewed toward a downside or rangebound bias in the near term—OPEC has lost credibility, the large inventory overhang persists, shale’s resurgence and a rising rig count continue, and the spat over Qatar didn’t affect the market. None of these factors should change anytime soon.
Products Markets Feel the Heat as Refiners Overproduce
If refinery utilization remains near current levels, there is the danger of more inventory increases and downward pressure on product prices.
Lyft, nuTonomy Ink Deal to Put Autonomous Vehicles on the Road
Instead of building its own autonomous cars, Lyft is forming partnerships to help it gain an advantage in the self-driving arena.
Limited Impact on Oil Markets From Qatar Row, but Geopolitical Uncertainties Loom
While oil and gas supplies have yet to be significantly affected by the current spat surrounding Qatar, it could escalate tensions in the region, home to a majority of the world’s oil reserves, and lead to deeper geopolitical instability.
U.S. Crude Exports Soar in Q1 as Shale Rises, OPEC Cuts
With domestic production rising and OPEC reducing sales to Asia, the U.S. has taken advantage of shifting market conditions by shipping more crude to customers overseas. The U.S. exported an eye-opening 900,000 b/d of crude during Q1, with volumes going to 24 different countries.
Colorado Autonomous Vehicle Legislation Serves as Model for Other States
Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper signed autonomous vehicle (AV) legislation on Thursday that ensures uniform regulations across the state. It also promises to bring critical testing and deployment to Colorado.
Why Haven’t More Petro-states Failed?
In the aftermath of the 2014 price fall, producer countries have had to reevaluate policy and economic strategy while contending with a persistent glut that may dampen prices for some time, further undermine their budgets, and possibly cause domestic strife.
India Likely to Fall Short of Its Ambitious EV Target
While India is making a concerted effort to implement reform in its transportation sector, it is far behind other countries in putting EVs on the road. Despite the government's best intentions, India's oil demand should double by 2040.
Ford’s Bold CEO Move Reflects Its Commitment to Autonomous Vehicles
Ford's appointment of Jim Hackett as its new CEO makes good strategic sense, given the automaker’s commitment to AVs and the necessity of taking more bold steps in this area. The move further deepens Ford’s commitment to becoming a modern mobility company, and not just a traditional automaker.
Injunction Leaves Room for Uber to Move Forward With Developing Self-Driving Cars
The recent ruling by a federal judge in California in the Uber-Waymo dispute is, to some extent, a victory for both sides and serves as a reminder of the high stakes in the race to develop autonomous vehicles.
Venezuela's Slow-Motion Implosion Continues
Venezuela’s current state of affairs is a prime example of why it’s important for economies of both producers and consumers to reduce dependence on oil. The meltdown in Caracas is a precarious situation for the U.S., given that Venezuela is its number three crude oil supplier.
Strong Growth in Petchem Demand Alters Long-Term Dynamics in Global Oil Market
Petchem growth appears guaranteed for the coming decades with demand rising faster than GDP in non-OECD countries and limited substitutes in this area.
What Will Happen to OPEC, Oil Prices After the Aramco IPO?
Experts disagree on the potential oil market impact from Saudi Aramco's IPO. Some argue that the Kingdom will choose a pump-at-will policy to please shareholders, while others see continued coordination with OPEC.
EV Sales Remain Robust in U.S., Boom in Europe
During Q1 2017, registrations of EVs in the EU jumped by almost 30 percent versus the same time last year, with total alternative fuel vehicles up almost 38 percent. During 2017, both the U.S. and Europe look to smash records of EV sales.
States, Businesses Take the Lead in Fuel Efficiency, Alternative Fuels
Public officials and a number of businesses touted their efforts to diversify the transportation sector and reduce demand for petroleum at this year's ACT Expo.
At ACT Expo, Automakers Bullish on Landscape for Advanced Fuel Vehicles
Amidst sweeping changes in the landscape for advanced fuel vehicles, automakers expressed confidence that the shift towards non-petroleum fuels will continue rapidly.
OPEC Sows Confusion in Global Oil Market With Its Production Cut
Despite constant chatter of rebalancing, oil prices have been weakening, and OPEC has itself to blame for causing market uncertainty and instability.
EIA to Incorporate Methodology on Autonomous Vehicles in 2018 Long-Term Outlook
When considering autonomy in buses and both light and freight trucks, the EIA sees lower demand compared to its base case in all scenarios.
Toyota Continues to Make Another Big Bet on Hydrogen, Launches Truck Project in California
Hydrogen vehicles refill in the same short period of time as conventional gasoline vehicles—considered an advantage over natural gas and electric vehicles.
NGLs to Temper Demand Growth in Petrochemical and Refined Product Markets
After seeing massive growth so far this decade, natural gas liquids (NGLs) are expected to rise by about 1.2 million barrels in the next five years. Despite the increase in NGLs, a key source of supply for petchems, a global oil supply gap could still form early next decade.
Is OPEC Gaming Exports to Move U.S. Inventories?
OPEC’s strategy centers around restricting supply to the Atlantic basin since inventory data in the U.S. is the most timely and visible in the world. From February to early April, U.S. imports from Saudi Arabia have plummeted by about 462,000 b/d.
Permania Isn’t a Panacea for the Long Term
With so much focus on OPEC cuts and shale growth as of late, declines at existing fields and demand increases from low prices mean that a supply gap will eventually form, even if the rosiest scenario pans out in the Permian.
Is the Trading World Ripe for Consolidation?
Big merchant traders like Vitol, Trafigura, and Glencore are expected to aggressively explore opportunities to grow in order to diversify their asset and customer bases and mitigate risk.
Copper, Lithium Markets to Receive Major Support from Autonomous Vehicles
Many of the same uncertainties that persist in the oil market will remain true for copper and lithium, both of which will see major demand growth as a result of the transition to autonomous vehicles.
Daimler-Bosch Deal Reflects Rapid Pace of Change in Autonomy
Daimler and Bosch are aiming to produce vehicles that will be able to drive autonomously in cities.
Hedging Provides Lifeline to Shale Producers Ahead of OPEC Uncertainty
Small independent shale producers are dealing with a the possibility of another oil price plunge with aggressive hedging, a development that should allow output to grow.
Shale CEOs Woo Investors as Market Outlook Brightens
Even though a large amount of shale production is hedged for this year, the industry is still vulnerable to cost inflation, access to capital markets and investment banks, and fluctuations in the oil price.
Analyst: OPEC’s Cut ‘Unbalanced’ the Market
A large stock build in the first quarter, rampant producer hedging, and large amount of investor inflows in the futures market created an “unbalancing of the market,” the opposite of OPEC’s stated goal, according to one prominent oil market analyst.
Peak Demand Would Not Crash the Oil Industry
If oil demand were to peak, the industry would likely see a good bit of consolidation, but the situation would not bring about a collapse.
House Panel Highlights the Need for Greater Consumer Education on AV Capabilities, and for a National Regulatory Framework
Both lawmakers and witnesses at a House hearing noted that the transition period to full autonomy holds significant challenges, including integration of semi-autonomous features into the vehicle fleet.
OPEC’s Conundrum Continues
The market’s initial reaction on Monday and its losses of about $7 since the beginning of March indicate that OPEC members can’t use verbal intervention to lift prices as easily as they did last year.
Evangelos Simoudis on Big Data and Job Potential in an Autonomous Future
Evangelos Simoudis of Synapse Partners in Silicon Valley speaks to The Fuse about how the transition to on-demand mobility will create a new value chain that produces jobs.
OPEC Market Share Battle Moves Downstream
Sharp growth in the downstream sector could simply shift the gigantic surplus of crude to the refined products market, undermining profit margins in all regions.
The Oil Market’s March Madness
Despite shale’s resurgence, there are questions about how healthy the U.S. E&P sector is in light of higher price levels since November of last year.
INRIX: Cities With Shorter Trips Poised to Benefit First from AVs
By looking at trip, parking, and demographic data, cities can mark deployment areas where autonomous vehicles will be immediately effective and can push for them to operate in those sections first.
EPA Puts Fuel Economy Review Back on Original Timetable
The Mid-term Evaluation for fuel economy standards opens the door to including new vehicle technology, such as autonomy, in federal regulations, a development that could lead to even greater efficiency in the longer term.
U.S. Oil Sector Back from ‘Brink of Extinction,' Total Boosts Investment
The U.S. oil and gas sector is very upbeat with prices above $50 per barrel, but one CEO warns that the industry must manage its growth or the market could collapse again.
Saudi Energy Minister: Too Soon to Commit to Extending Production Cut
Speaking at a major conference in Houston, the Saudi Energy Minister said there is cause for “cautious optimism” for the industry but warned against “irrational exuberance.”
Russia Poised to Meet Its Production Cut Pledge Next Month
The biggest questions at CERAWeek this year is whether OPEC and its non-OPEC counterparts will recommit to throttling back in May and whether U.S. shale can fully offset these cuts and push down prices.
IEA: Get Ready for a Price Spike
Despite continued rapid growth in U.S. shale, the global oil market could see price spikes and increased volatility at the beginning of next decade.
Expert: Liability to Shift from Drivers to Product Manufacturers in Autonomous Future
Autonomous vehicles are expected to upend the car insurance business as we know it, eventually taking drivers almost entirely out of the equation.
Despite Risks, OPEC Likely to Extend Cuts for 2H 2017
The growing confidence among hedge funds for higher prices and the expectation of a tighter market during the second half of the year make it more likely than not OPEC will continue to manipulate output.
U.S. Shatters Record in Gasoline Consumption
A combination of an extended period of low prices, consumers buying larger vehicles, and strong economic growth has caused demand to soar since it reached its nadir in 2012.
Transportation Secretary to Re-assess Guidance on Autonomy
The new Transportation Secretary is calling on the auto and tech industries to rigorously educate the public about the benefits of autonomous cars.
Panel: Consumers Will Accept Driverless Cars
While consumers are expected to warm to self-driving vehicles over time, the auto industry has adapted quickly, embracing autonomous technology and driving innovation.
Despite High Imports, U.S. Crude Exporters Gain Market Share in China Amid OPEC Cut
What gets overlooked sometimes in the discussion on U.S. crude exports is that the country is still importing more than 8 million barrels per day.
Electric Buses Seeing Greater Penetration in the U.S., China
Amid the push among cities to reduce emissions and the impetus to lower costs for fuel, the electrification of the bus fleet is set continue, even if the U.S. may take a while to catch other economies, most notably China.
Forecasters Raise Global Oil Demand Estimates for 2017
The reasons for the positive demand revisions come from every region of the global oil market, with stronger economic activity the main reason for the more optimistic outlook.
What Should Congress Do About Autonomous Vehicles?
There’s growing evidence of the natural link between autonomous and electric vehicles.
Ford Takes Big Leap in Autonomy With Purchase of AI Start-Up
Ford's $1 billion investment in a tech start-up reflects the company's commitment to autonomous vehicles and its attempts to catch up to others in the space, particularly Google and Tesla.
Charts Highlighting Job Potential in Oil and Transportation Sectors
SAFE's Fact Pack summary for Q4 looks at recent trends in oil market fundamentals and transportation while also focusing on how American innovation can help job growth in the transportation and domestic energy sectors, a key development that will lessen the country’s dependence on OPEC imports.
What Will OPEC Do If the Market Doesn’t Rebalance?
Nothing will change materially in the oil market until there’s a significant stock draw, a development that appears doubtful, which could ultimately force OPEC to change strategy once again.
Autonomous Cars Are Getting Better, But Standard Testing Metrics Needed
While new data from California provides some insight to gains for AVs, the real story is the fact that the industry needs consistent monitoring and metrics nationwide to drive a deeper understanding of the technology and its capabilities.
China’s Aggressive EV Program Won’t Be Enough to Shake Up Oil Markets
Despite EV sales growing at a rapid clip in China, oil demand there is still expected to rise by more than 60 percent in the next couple of decades.
FedEx CEO: U.S. in Urgent Need of Infrastructure Reform
Lawmakers are mostly in agreement that U.S. infrastructure needs a major overhaul, but how exactly to fund projects will be the sticking point going forward.
Advantage Lithium CEO on the Boom in EVs, Investing in Argentina, and Uncertainties About China
David Sidoo is the CEO of Advantage Lithium, a Vancouver-based company that has projects in Argentina and Nevada. He spoke to The Fuse about his firm’s operations, the state of lithium markets, and what challenges lay ahead for the industry.
U.S. Rig Count Soars, Helps Temper OPEC Cuts
While U.S. crude production hasn’t fully recovered, it has increased by more than 300,000 b/d since September to average just under 9 million barrels per day. As a result, the OPEC-fueled boom in prices has stalled for the time being.
Despite Clear Benefits, Consumers Remain Highly Skeptical of Autonomous Vehicles
Although the public has not warmed to the idea of self-driving vehicles, consumers are open-minded about autonomy and willing to change their attitudes.
OPEC Wastes No Time in Cutting Production
The group has been adamant about putting together a united front to show that it will follow through with production cuts and counter critics who doubt its willingness or capability to do so.
Refiners Adjust Well to Shale Boom, But Good Times May Not Last
Exports of refined products and a rebound in gasoline demand have been crucial elements of refiner success as of late.
UPDATE: House Bill Seeks to Establish OPEC Commission to Assess Impact of the Cartel’s Policies
The OPEC commission would examine whether the cartel’s behavior is designed to disadvantage U.S. oil producers and secure market power through anti-competitive behavior.
Measuring the OPEC Cuts
There are already signs that OPEC is committed to following through with pledges, even if indicators are contradictory and vague at the moment. The oil market has stabilized in the low-to-mid $50s, indicating the group has indeed put a floor under prices for the time being.
Transportation Pick Takes Positive Stance on Autonomous Vehicles
One of the biggest issues for the next Secretary of Transportation will be designing a flexible regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles in which the federal government leads while allowing both industry innovation.
EIA Forecast Prompts More Confusion than Clarity
Critics of the EIA's long-term projections can cherry-pick through the different scenarios to justify almost any outlook that suits their bias.
Report on AV Safety and Testing Provides Roadmap for Industry, Regulators
To help guide watchdogs, industry, and lawmakers in this key transition period, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) released its public policy recommendations for dealing with the rollout of AVs in an effort to build public confidence and design a flexible regulatory framework.
Mexico Takes Positive Step by Nixing Fuel Subsidies, But Economic Pain Ensues
Low oil prices and soaring budget deficits have provided motivation for emerging markets to scrap the status quo with regards to fuel subsidies. Despite short-term pain from liberalizing prices, as seen currently in Mexico, longer-run benefits of curbing oil demand growth will emerge.
Is Oil Poised for a Bull Run in 2017?
OPEC has certainly put a floor under the market, but it’s not yet clear how high members can push prices. Oil may simply trade in a range of $45-$60, with shale capping prices on the upside and the cartel's production cuts limiting the downside.
Legal Experts Disagree on Uber’s Actions in San Francisco
Uber seems to be avoiding compliance with laws for driverless vehicles in order to make a statement to California, and any other state that should follow its example with what the ride-hailing service believes are onerous laws.
2016, the Year Autonomous Vehicles Took Off
Critics may argue that the self-driving car phenomenon is premature, but as choices for drivers and commuters grow, attitudes will eventually shift, particularly with new technology expected to ease congestion, boost efficiency, and reduce traffic accidents.
Despite OPEC Rhetoric, Supply Cuts Not Beneficial for Consumers
In just the past two weeks since OPEC announced it plans to cut output, the cartel has significantly altered market sentiment and shifted the oil market outlook for next year.
Autonomous Vehicles: Boom or Bust for U.S. Jobs and Economic Growth?
There’s a natural paradox when it comes to innovation—it often brings unexpected benefits to society, but it can also cause disruptions and upheavals, creating particular risks in the labor market. Experts discuss the risks and rewards of autonomous vehicles on the country's economy.
JBC Energy: Oil Markets to Remain Oversupplied Until 2021
A major consultancy says that the oil market will still take longer to rebalance than many analysts had reckoned because of supply-side trends both in OPEC and outside the group. A slew of new non-OPEC fields will ramp up to increase the global crude oversupply to a massive 1.8 mbd for 1H 2017.
Obama Administration Finalizes Methane Rule, Bans Arctic Drilling
Republicans have pushed back hard against energy and environmental action Obama has taken after the election, and they will likely try to overturn his decisions once he leaves office.
All Eyes on OPEC as Global Glut Persists
Given the dire straits of OPEC countries’ fiscal situations, the cartel may ultimately take action at its meeting on November 30 to lift prices, a move that would hurt consumer countries. But a production cut isn't a forgone conclusion.
IEA: Low Oil Prices Make Fuel Economy Regulations More Important than Ever
Last year, consumers globally saved 870 million barrels of oil as a result of efficiency improvements since 2000. Germany and China have been more successful in maintaining fuel economy gains during low oil prices.
U.S. Trends Toward Becoming a Net Exporter of Gasoline
Growth in refining capacity, high downstream utilization, and flexibility provided by cheap feedstock thanks to the shale boom have all boosted U.S. energy security and lowered pump prices for consumers.
Maintaining CAFE Standards and EV Tax Credit Consistent with Trump's Plan to End Dependence on OPEC Oil
The 2016 election could turn out to be a big win for the oil and gas industry, as Trump has championed deregulation and a rollback of a number of environmental measures.
White House Initiative for EV Charging Corridors to Significantly Reduce ‘Range Anxiety’
Despite improvements in charging infrastructure and battery technology, consumers may still be hesitant to buy EVs based on outdated preconceptions.
ARPA-E Moves Forward With Ambitious Project to Reduce Energy Consumption through Automated Tech
The commercialization of energy and transportation technologies can be very expensive and risky, so given the enormous task of reducing oil dependence, partnerships established through ARPA-E projects will be very vital.
Key Charts Highlighting 2016 Presidential Campaign, OPEC’s Dilemma
The recent Fact Pack from Securing America's Future Energy (SAFE) contains a number of data points that highlight OPEC’s dilemma and discuss energy issues that surfaced during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Despite More Pipeline Protests, Oil Will Still Make Its Way to Market
Rather than focus on midstream infrastructure, environmentalists should focus their energy on reducing oil demand if they want to reduce consumption.
Autonomy to Significantly Alter Trucking, Industry Wants to Have a Say in Regulations
One major sector of the economy, the trucking industry, promises to see enormous changes from autonomy, many of which will be for the better.
Trump, Clinton Surrogates Spar Over Energy Policy in a Substantive Debate
The substantive discussion gave insights into how energy policy would take shape in either a Clinton or Trump administration.
Bullish Comments from the Saudis Appear Premature, Glut Likely to Persist
Over the past couple of years, there’s been a string of comments from executives and ministers who want and need higher prices making the case for a tighter market even though there’s little to no evidence of that reflected in the fundamentals.
Tesla Rolls Out Hardware for Fully Autonomous Vehicles, Backlash Expected
Given the controversy surrounding Tesla's Autopilot after it was possibly at fault for a deadly accident earlier this year, the recent announcement that all of the company’s vehicles will have fully autonomous hardware will likely stir up even more debate.
Oil Merchants Contend With New Market Reality, Possible OPEC Deal
The oil merchants have typically resorted to operating in the shadows of the markets, exploiting opportunities under the radar, as they moved cargoes from a point of surplus to a point of deficit. But recently, they have become more open and transparent about their financial status, their outlooks on oil prices, and their operations across commodity markets.
Still Too Soon to Say Peak Oil Demand Is Right Around the Corner
Although shifts are taking place with EVs, autonomy, and more stringent fuel economy, it is not inevitable that we’ll shortly be in a post-oil world and that demand will peak sooner rather than later.
It’s Not Yet Clear How Americans Feel About Driverless Cars
Polling data on driverless cars is contradictory and indicates mixed feelings among consumers, and just as important, some surveys highlight the fact that Americans don’t know much about autonomy in general.
Is the OPEC Cut Already Doomed to Fail?
OPEC is expected to finalize the details of its production cut next month, but in the meantime, the entire arrangement looks like a mess, with hole after hole being punctured before it’s even been fully agreed upon and implemented.
In Second Presidential Debate, Energy Misinformation Spread by Both Sides
Both Trump and Clinton make misstatements on energy, but Clinton points to role Middle East producers play in managing oil prices.
As Road Fatalities Soar, Feds Look to Eliminate Deadly Driving Through Autonomy
Fully autonomous vehicles on roads and highways could virtually eliminate traffic accidents, but it’s uncertain when such a scenario will occur. Right now, the country is in a midst of a crisis from car crashes, as reflected in recent government data showing a sharp rise in fatalities this year.
UAE Makes Bold Move to Sharply Improve Fuel Economy
The UAE recently announced that it rolled out draft standards for fuel economy in order to reduce emissions. This action follows the emirate's Gulf neighbor Saudi Arabia, which implemented similar measures earlier this year.
Why Previous OPEC Cuts Have Been Successful, and Why This One Might Not Be
OPEC's past cuts were successful in tightening the global oil market and lifting prices, but the agreement last week in Algiers may not be sufficient to rebalance fundamentals, particularly since U.S. shale is poised to rebound.
Despite U.S.-Saudi Tensions, Aramco Looking to Purchase Gulf Coast Refining Asset
Snapping up refining capacity in the U.S. and elsewhere allows the Saudis to develop guaranteed outlets for its crude supply at a time the oil market is oversaturated and becoming more competitive.
Energy Issues on the Periphery of First Presidential Debate
With the country enjoying a period of energy abundance and low prices at the pump, voters aren’t as concerned about what’s happening in the global oil market. That showed in the first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
Chinese Bullish on Autonomous Vehicles, But Infrastructure and Regulations Are Big Obstacles
With autonomous cars, China has to deal with some of the same hurdles as the U.S., but so far surveys show a greater willingness among the public there to use the new technology.
Traders Mixed on Outcome of Upcoming OPEC Meeting
OPEC, along with Russia, will take another stab at figuring out a strategy to support prices at an informal meeting in Algiers next week, and traders are split on what the outcome will be.
Deloitte: Transition to Autonomy to Occur Quicker Than Expected in Urban Areas
Smartphones, cell phones, and the Internet aren’t perfect proxies for extrapolating penetration of autonomy, but they can provide a basis for discussion about what might happen with self-driving technology.
Business Leaders Tout the Use of Natural Gas in the Transportation Sector
Experts say that relatively low prices for natural gas and high domestic production provide the right conditions to bring about a greater penetration of NGVs in the country’s automobile fleet.
Increased Worker Productivity One More Benefit of Autonomy
Many consumers, once they see the benefits of giving up the steering wheel, will embrace the extra time for themselves or for work. Autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly increase productivity for Americans as they are on the road.
Michigan Autonomous Vehicle Law Shows Why Federal Leadership Is Needed
Although some states like Michigan have adopted policies to advance autonomous vehicles, it’s clear that a patchwork of regulations could emerge, reinforcing the need for leadership at the federal level.
Commission to Establish Best Practices for Testing and Deployment of Driverless Cars
An expert commission has been established by Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) that will recommend best practices for testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles.
Strategic Oil Reserve Gets Short-Changed in Political Debate
Despite the DOE and others making the case for a slimmer Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the U.S. is still vulnerable to wild price swings and global supply outages.
OPEC Exports to the U.S. Soar
Rhetoric aside, OPEC exports to the U.S. are up 20 percent year over year. U.S. production has fallen by more than 1 million barrels per day over the past 18 months, creating a supply gap that has been filled with OPEC oil.
Can Google’s New Ride-Sharing Service Support Old-Fashioned Carpooling?
Tech giant Google is launching a ride-sharing service this fall that will allow commuters in San Francisco to link up with each other to essentially carpool together. If it takes off and spreads to other cities, it could go a long way in weeding out inefficiencies in our transportation system.
The Large Summer Inventory Draw that Never Really Happened
In order for prices to break out of the current range of $40-$50, there needs to be a sharp drawdown in crude stocks, but so far that hasn't happened.
Study: Quantifying the Energy Implications of Autonomous Vehicles
A study from a major research group finds that the transition to autonomous cars will bring about a sharp increase in fuel efficiency and hasten the use of alternative energy sources, both of which will slice demand for petroleum.
Clinton’s Transition Team Sends Mixed Messages on Energy Policy
Picking Ken Salazar and John Podesta for high-level positions provides little clarity regarding energy and the environment policy since both advisers have different philosophies and it’s unclear which side would win out under a Clinton administration.
OPEC Supply Risks Skewed to the Upside
OPEC’s talk about an agreement on a production freeze in late September has dominated headlines, scaring financial investors with short positions. But more important than the rhetoric about capping production is the possibility of more supply from the cartel returning to the market.
Ford’s Goal to Put Driverless Cars on the Road by 2021 a Big Move Toward a Shared Economy
Ford shifts from lagging others on autonomous vehicles to attempting to be one of the first to market a fully driverless car.
Clinton’s Energy Security Philosophy, Explained
Hillary Clinton articulated her philosophy on energy security in comments she made as Secretary of State. They could serve as a guide to her priorities if she wins the presidency.
OPEC’s Rhetorical War Against Speculators Continues
When prices were high, OPEC members benefited from any speculative-driven rally. Now, however, the tables have turned—OPEC members, already suffering from low prices, are jittery that speculators will sell the market down again toward previous lows.
Beyond Fuel Savings: Autonomous Vehicles to Reduce Drunk-Driving Deaths
Transportation services like Uber and Lyft are already reducing the number of deaths from drunk driving. Autonomous vehicles can accelerate this trend, and benefit the food and beverage industries in the process.
U.S. Refiners’ Woes Likely to Get Worse
Market conditions had been mostly kind to U.S. refiners over the past five years, but current oversupply of refined products, excess downstream capacity, and tight spreads between the two major benchmarks have considerably changed the outlook.
Speculators Turn Bearish on Refined Product Glut, Improved U.S. Production Outlook
Hedge fund sentiment in the oil markets has turned considerably bearish as of late. While it may be premature to say prices have already peaked for the year, a sustained bull run for the rest of 2016 appears less and less likely.
Energy Specialist Brynne Kelly on Oil & Gas Markets and How Twitter Is the New Trading Desk
Brynne Kelly, an independent portfolio manager, speaks to The Fuse about Twitter, oil and gas prices, and the evolving nature of oil markets.
Fracking Leaders Hamm and Sheffield Differ on Presidential Politics
Two major executives this past week gave differing views on this year's election. Continental's Harold Hamm spoke at the RNC in favor of Donald Trump, while Pioneer's CEO noted how the industry has performed better under Democratic administrations.
Autonomy and Electrification to Shake Up the Shipping Industry
Although new regulations will improve efficiency and curb pollutants, the electrification of the vessels on the water and the growth of autonomy in shipping, similar to changes in the auto industry, can bring about widespread benefits.
Obama: The Accidental Energy Security President
Like presidents before him dating back to Richard Nixon, Barack Obama pledged to reduce dependence on crude oil imports and sever the country’s reliance on OPEC oil. But unlike others, Obama saw overall energy security improve markedly during his presidency.
Libya’s Full Return Unlikely to Happen Swiftly
Libya's oil production has the potential to rise now that there’s been a merger of the two national oil companies and a likely re-opening of two major ports. But a swift rebound will be difficult, not least of all because of competing groups vying for control of the country and oil facilities remaining vulnerable to attack from ISIS.
Rystad: $70 Oil Needed to Stimulate Enough Supply to Meet Long-Term Demand
Sharper-than-expected decline rates as a result of limited investment and a major cutback in capital expenditures for brand new projects are setting the stage for a dramatic market shift by 2018, according to a major consultancy.
Tesla Accident Shows Leadership Needed in Deployment of Autonomous Vehicle Technology
NHTSA's recent numbers showing a rise in traffic fatalities, along with the recent crash of a Tesla vehicle that was using a semi-autonomous feature, underscore the need for a balanced regulatory approach to bring about the full safety benefits of self-driving technology.
Shifts in Demand to Keep Another Price Spike From Occurring?
An extended period of upstream investment cuts and the fact that petroleum products still fuel more than 90 percent of the transportation sector could mean we’re headed for another price spike. But slower economic growth and structural shifts on the demand side could keep another bull market from occurring.
Is Another Oil Price Spike Inevitable?
A general consensus has emerged that upstream investment cuts will eventually push prices upward, resulting in a potentially dramatic correction that rattles the global economy. A price spike, while possible, is not yet a forgone conclusion.
Trucking Fuel Economy Standards to Slice Diesel Demand, Undercut Alternative Fuels
The contradiction of proposed increases in fuel efficiency standards for large trucks is that although they will reduce oil consumption, they will also discourage the adoption of alternative vehicles that run on natural gas and make them less competitive in the trucking sector.
LNG and Propane Trade to Gain from Panama Canal Expansion, Crude Not So Much
While crude and products will see only modest changes from the expansion of the Panama Canal, the effects for LNG and propane will be much greater. The U.S. LNG industry will now have access to a transit route that can accommodate larger tankers at a time the industry is primed to export volumes to Asia.
Is Woodmac Too Optimistic About Electric Vehicles?
Consultancy Wood Mackenzie says EVs could slice gasoline demand by as much as 20 percent by 2035. Highly optimistic forecasts of EV market penetration have drawn scrutiny in the past, so it’s worth considering, what, if anything, has changed to put Woodmac’s projections closer to reality.
Princeton's Meg Jacobs on the 1970s Energy Crisis and Her Book 'Panic at the Pump'
Meg Jacobs, a Research Scholar in the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University, spoke with The Fuse about her new book, "Panic at the Pump," which explores why the U.S. government has failed to put together long-term energy solutions.
Tech Expert Adam Thierer on Liability and Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles have enormous potential benefits for society, particularly with regards to safety, but one major question is who will be legally responsible when there is an accident. Tech expert Adam Thierer talks to The Fuse about this issue.
Saudis Hold Steady in Upstream Investment While Others Slash Spending
Lost in the talk about the decrease in upstream spending is how Middle East producers, most notably Saudi Arabia, have not cut back in investment, setting the stage for them to see sharp gains in market share when tighter fundamentals are realized.
Autonomous Vehicles to Bring Sweeping Energy, Environmental Impacts
Three “synergistic technological developments”—the rise of autonomous cars, the popularity of ride-sharing services, and the electrification of the car fleet—will have enormous implications for fuel demand, perhaps slicing it by as much as 50 percent.
Explosion in Gasoline Demand to Have Negative Long-Term Consequences
With global GDP growth having fallen by .3 percentage points last year, it’s clear that low oil prices, which were sustained throughout all of 2015, were the main factor behind the rise in gasoline consumption, the largest growth in 35 years.
Low Oil Prices Spurring Positive Energy Security Developments in Americas, But Risks Loom
Weak oil and gas prices have been a boon for consumers and have fostered overdue reforms in producer countries in the Americas, but reduced investment on the supply side and the economic meltdown in Venezuela raise a number of open-ended questions about regional stability and security going forward.
IHS: Autonomous Vehicles to Take Off Faster Than Originally Expected
More and more experts are turning bullish on autonomous vehicles. In what has been seen as a distant prospect, wide-scale deployment of autonomous cars is closer than most originally thought.
No Tidal Wave of U.S. Crude Exports, But ‘Opportunistic’ Deals Taking Place
Crude export deals so far have been “opportunistic” and isolated in nature and have gone to a wide variety of buyers. Cargoes will continue to trickle out, but a gusher won’t happen unless domestic production rebounds significantly.
Gunvor's David Fyfe on Oil Markets, Trading, and OPEC
Gunvor is one of the largest commodity traders in the world. David Fyfe, Gunvor's Head of Market Research and Analysis, talked to The Fuse about current oil market dynamics, shifting trends in global trading, and the status of OPEC.
JBC: Oil Market to Remain in Surplus Through 2017
Although global balances have tightened lately, the oil market should remain in surplus for the rest of this year and throughout 2017. Fundamentals will see some periods of draws, but on average, over the next year and a half, supply is expected to remain ahead of demand, according to analysts at JBC Energy.
Trump Lays Out His Energy Philosophy – ‘Open It Up’
Trump threw his full support behind fracking and said that if the U.S. were to ban it, the country would be “back into the Middle East begging for oil again.”
OPEC Meeting Unlikely to Lead to Change in Strategy, But Cartel Is Not ‘Dead’
Although OPEC is not taking action to shore up prices in the current environment, the situation is likely to be more in OPEC’s favor in the medium to long term. Conditions will change to give it more market share and influence over prices in the coming decades.
Business Executives, Former Military Leaders Call for Bold Actions to Reduce Oil Dependence
Business executives and former military leaders launched recommendations this week for reducing dependence on oil and fostering the development of technological advancement in the transportation sector.
Opening Federal Lands to Drilling to Bolster Energy Security
In order to achieve greater energy security, it’s important that the country prioritizes its potential in tapping all of its natural resources, particularly with crude output gains stalling with oil prices being so low.
EIA’s Projections for US Oil Market to Face Skepticism
The latest long-term projections from the EIA regarding the U.S. oil market are certainly plausible, but they will likely face a lot of skepticism because of how both supply and demand have reacted in the current low oil price environment.
Oil Market Confusion Creates Potential for Another Dramatic Correction
Widespread hedging among U.S. producers and OPEC increasing its volumes even as some members deal with unexpected supply cuts have the potential to cap prices, or possibly bring about another leg downward.
Believe the Hype: Vehicle Safety to Improve Greatly With Autonomous Features
Although vehicle safety has improved a good bit over the decades, there are still too many accidents, most of which are caused by human error. But autonomous technology is set to be so disruptive that it will take the driver out of the equation and redefine mobility and safety.
EIA’s Projections a Wake-Up Call Against Complacency
Although the EIA’s International Energy Outlook (IEO) has had a mixed record with its long-term projections, it’s important as a basis for analysis and discussion about the future of the oil market and energy security in general.
The DUCs Are Fracking: The Uncertainty Surrounding Drilled but Uncompleted Wells
With prices having rallied and with expectations for a stronger market next year, will drilled but uncompleted wells (DUCs) be able to stabilize U.S. shale output or bring about another wave of supply online?
Fiat Chrysler Takes Shortcut on Path to Autonomy Through Deal With Google
While the number of vehicles ordered in the Google-Fiat Chrysler deal is relatively small and will be used for testing purposes, it is an important milestone in the normalization of self-driving cars.
Saudi Sale to Chinese Teapot Refinery a Big Move in Fight for Asian Market Share
Saudi Arabia’s spot crude oil sale last month to a Chinese teapot refinery is the latest maneuver in the market share battle between the Kingdom and Iran. The sale is not only a symbolic move in that it is the first of its kind; it is also a deepening of the competition for buyers in Asia, as Saudi Arabia looks for new outlets.
Price Rebound, Possible Turning Point Fail to Mask Industry Woes
Even though the oil market has risen considerably since February, bankruptcies, staff layoffs, capital expenditure cuts, and falling productivity continue to be commonplace during the price downturn that has so far lasted for seven straight quarters.
Presidential Dialogue Neglects Transportation and Energy Security Priorities
Fracking and fuel economy standards have improved U.S. energy security, but the campaign dialogue has missed important energy policy challenges as consumers are complacent with low oil prices.
New North Dakota Refineries Make Big Bets on Shale
There's a clear opportunity for new downstream capacity in North Dakota, but intensely high capital costs, oil price volatility, complex regulatory hurdles, and the uncertain outlook for shale could derail refining projects in the state.
Outside the U.S., Self-Driving Cars Poised to Take Off
While autonomous vehicles are on the cusp of taking off in the U.S., other areas are also making headway, with China, Japan, Western Europe and Singapore emerging as main markets of the new technology.
No Freeze: Oil Markets at a Crossroads
A number of supportive elements should keep a floor under prices, while the market will be capped by the ongoing oversupply. For the time being, oil markets are set to remain volatile and range-bound with many competing factors pushing prices in both directions.
Oil Sits at Center of Next President’s Foreign Policy Challenges
With international events happening at a quick pace and relationships with allies and enemies in flux, the next president will have a long list of foreign policy challenges, with major oil-producing countries as top concerns.
Interview: What to Expect from MIT's Slot-Based Intersections for Autonomous Vehicles
MIT's recent projection of an intersection without traffic lights has captured the public's imagination. In an exclusive interview, we discuss "slot-based intersections" with the concept's principal architect.
At IPAA OGIS Summit, Small Number of Companies Reveal Strong Positioning for Price Recovery
With many of the biggest shale industry players struggling, a select few firms took the IPAA OGIS conference as an opportunity to show their relative strengths.
Panama Papers Perfectly Exemplify Exploitation of Wealth and Power in Petro States
The Panama Papers are another reminder of the extreme wealth, corruption, and opaqueness that is common to leadership in so many oil producing countries.
China’s Crude Benchmark Delayed, Still on Track to Take Off
Regulatory turf wars, disputes over the eligible crudes for physical delivery, and a sharp downturn in trading in a number of markets in the region have delayed the opening of China's crude benchmark.
MIT Study Shows Big Benefits of Autonomous Cars: No Traffic Lights and Congestion at Intersections
As vehicles communicate with each other through sensors, they can remain a safe distance from each other but they do not have to completely stop before slithering through an intersection.
U.S. Crude Inventories: The Pace of the Seasonal Decline Is What Matters
The first crude stock declines will have a significant psychological impact on the market, but it will be tricky to determine if the draw is a standard seasonal pull, or if the market is beginning to finally rebalance.
The Impact of the Federal Reserve on Oil Markets
OPEC policy, fresh data from agencies such as the IEA and the EIA, price speculators, and geopolitical disruptions are all known as market movers. But there’s another important player in oil price movements, and that’s the Federal Reserve.
Puncturing Misconceptions about Driverless Cars
Autonomous vehicles promise to shatter current limitations on personal mobility while revolutionizing fuel efficiency and enabling a widespread transition to electric vehicles. Skepticism about driverless cars, as with any new technology, is high. As criticism mounts, so have popular misconceptions.
The Myth of Energy Independence: Looking Back at Andrew Grove’s Advocacy
Andrew Grove, an early advocate of electric vehicles and former legendary CEO of chipmaker Intel, died this past week. Over the past decade, the tech mogul emerged as a prominent voice in dispelling the myth of energy independence and repeatedly urging reforms in transportation, particularly the adoption of EVs.
Uber’s Purchase of Autonomous Vehicles Would Accelerate Transportation Changes
Uber is rumored to have purchased 100,000 autonomous vehicles from Daimler’s Mercedes Benz. While Daimler and Uber have yet to comment based on press reports, the deal would make a lot of sense for both companies, and it would be an important step for the penetration self-driving cars.
Low Oil and Gas Prices Exacerbate Louisiana’s Economic Woes
States that are major oil and gas producers are seeing significant holes in their budgets in part due to low prices. One major player on this list is Louisiana, which has a long energy-rich history and is going through a severe fiscal crisis at the moment.
Federal Action Needs to Keep Up With Technological Changes in Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars have the potential to bring extraordinary benefits to consumers and society as a whole, but technology is moving faster than policymakers can keep pace with. In order for self-driving vehicles to reach their potential, there needs to be a federal regulatory environment that allows for flexibility and accelerated development.
East Coast Oil Imports Rise as Crude-by-Rail Volumes Decline
Despite the decline of volumes on the tracks and controversies surrounding safety, crude shipped via rail is here to stay, given there isn’t currently pipeline capacity to move supplies from the prolific Bakken plays to the coasts.
Low Prices Force Nigeria to Restructure State-Run Oil Company
OPEC member Nigeria has taken a major step in improving its country’s energy sector by restructuring its state-run oil company. The move is significant since the NNPC has a longstanding history of corruption and the country is dealing with a large budget gap.
Energy Security Lessons from House of Cards
Compared to other storylines in House of Cards, the energy subplot is not completely out of the realm of possibility. It wasn’t all that long ago the U.S. and global oil markets were in a crisis, with producer countries having outsized power.
Hedge Funds’ Bullishness on Oil Isn’t Supported by Fundamentals
Whether the current rally has staying power is up in the air, but overall fundamentals suggest otherwise, despite recent ambiguous headlines that have been interpreted as supportive. The rebound has been largely technical in nature, with hedge fund positions exaggerating the price move upward.
Refiners Still Profitable Despite Product Overhang, Benchmark Convergence
The refining sector is the one part of the oil & gas industry that is actually making money in the current low price environment. The good times are slowing down, with demand growth weakening and refined product inventories ballooning, but U.S. refiners are still set to have a strong year in 2016
U.S. Crude Exports Are Declining. Here’s Why
U.S. crude oil exports declined noticeably during the second part of last year—an ironic development given the intense lobbying at the same time for the liberalizing of the country’s export laws and the ultimate repeal of the ban in December.
OPEC: Breaking Down Naimi’s 'Lack of Trust'
Issues of mistrust among OPEC members date back to the group’s inception, although they have compounded over the years. Throughout the cartel’s history, members have overproduced, in order to sell more volumes and boost revenues, sometimes by excessive amounts, causing widespread suspicion and distrust.
Video: Jamie Webster of IHS on Saudi Output Strategy, Global Oil Markets and CERAWeek
The Saudi oil minister's comment that the Kingdom isn't planning to cut production was the biggest news to come out of CERAWeek this year. What are the implications for OPEC and global oil markets? Jamie Webster of IHS explains.
Secretary Moniz Hails LNG Exports, Iranian Nuclear Deal, Driverless Cars
Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz stated that energy security is a “collective responsibility,” noting, for example, that insecurity elsewhere negatively affects the U.S.
VIDEO: Susan Sakmar on CERAWeek and LNG Exports
With Cheniere's vessel heading to Brazil, LNG is now being exported from the Lower 48 States. What are the implications for the US and global gas markets? University of Houston Law Professor and LNG expert Susan Sakmar explains to The Fuse.
OPEC Secretary-General Cautiously Confident About Output ‘Freeze,’ Price Rebound
OPEC’s Secretary-General Abdallah El-Badri argues the output freeze is “the first step to see what we can achieve,” adding that producers will review the action in the coming months to see how successful it’s been and what the next steps will be.
Does OPEC, Russia Production Freeze Signal Potential for Future Collusion?
While OPEC producers and Russia have been significantly undermined by U.S. shale growth, they appear determined to reassert their market power and will be better positioned to impact prices when fundamentals eventually tighten.
Political Risks Cloud Iran’s Efforts to Entice Western Oil Firms
Although Iran has diligently reformed its petroleum contract to attract IOCs, the OPEC country is still dealing with a volatile political and economic environment that could delay and possibly undermine new and longer-term investment.
Bankruptcies Hit Alarming Levels in Oilfield Services Sector
Against the backdrop of high debt, capex cuts, and more E&P bankruptcies, 2016 will be a slog for oilfield services, just like everyone else in the oil and gas industry.
Why the Dow Is Vulnerable to Weak Oil Prices
A good bit of the linkage between oil prices and the Dow is the result of general market sentiment, psychology, and knee-jerk reactions. At the same time, however, the fallout from the pain in the energy sector is touching large segments of the economy, including many major U.S. corporations with exposure to oil and gas.
Everybody Hurts: Oil Majors, Independents Drastically Cut Capex
The decline in oil prices that began in mid-2014 has wreaked havoc across all different types of companies in the industry, and there seems to be no respite in the short run. Companies are continuing to lay off staff, cut back on projects, and report eye-opening losses.
Crude Imports from OPEC Countries Back on the Rise
One consequence of shale producers taking hits from lower prices: More reliance on OPEC. After years of decline, crude oil imports from OPEC members rebounded in Q4 as a result of U.S. production stagnating, higher refinery input, and a tighter spread between U.S. prices and the international market.
Shale Bubble Creates Economic Risks, But Fallout Will Be Contained
While there are some structural similarities between the shale and housing bubbles, the puncturing of commodity prices and the shale industry does not pose a systemic risk to the banking sector and the wider economy.
Oilfield Services: North American Market Getting Slammed the Hardest
Although the oilfield service giants will undoubtedly survive, there’s a lot of uncertainty going forward, prompting them to focus on cost per barrel optimization and improving efficiency
In the Shale Patch: 42 Bankruptcies, and Counting
Few, if any, shale oil producers are profitable in the current price environment. But unlike previous oil price collapses, oil companies have access to new lines of credit which are helping to keep production high.
Auto Industry Booming, Making Strides in Technology, But Headwinds Loom
It’s now a good time to be in the auto business. Technological advancements are moving at a rapid pace and are set to continue at a fast clip, vehicle sales are at an all-time high, and low fuel costs for consumers are set to persist for the foreseeable future. But there are a number of hurdles on the horizon.
Things Have Changed: Low Oil Prices a Threat to the U.S. Economy
Can low oil prices tip the economy into a recession? Not on their own, but the fact that a key sector that was instrumental in the post-2008 economic recovery is suffering is worrisome.
Are the Crude Futures Curves Underestimating Longer-Term Risks?
Oil prices all along the curve have taken major hits. The futures curve may be underestimating risks from both geopolitics and deferred investment, or the rapid descent of the curve could in fact indicate the market is in for longer-term structural weakness.
Key Questions Surrounding a Possible Saudi Aramco IPO
Saudi Arabia is mulling selling shares in Aramco, but the announcement of a possible IPO has prompted a number of questions, particularly the overall value of the company.
All Is Bearish in the Oil Markets to Start 2016
The oil markets have had a crazy beginning to 2016. Prices have plummeted to the lowest levels in 11 years, and it’s hard to identify anything likely to turn the market around in the near future.
API: Fossil Fuels to Remain Critical Source of Supply for US Consumers
The head of the API discusses the importance of fossil fuels at the organization's 2016 State of American Energy.
Saudi Arabia-Iran Conflict, Rising Middle East Tensions Add to Oil Market Uncertainty
The deteriorating relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran amid the Saudi execution of several Shia prisoners, including a prominent cleric, add a key uncertainty to oil markets in the upcoming year, and for the longer-term stability of the Middle East,
From U.S. Gasoline Demand to OPEC Policy: The Top 10 Oil Market Stories in 2015
2015 has been a roller coaster for energy and oil markets. We break down the most critical developments of the year.
Utilities Need to Get Involved in Developing Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles
Electric utilities are one major entity that can gain financially from deployment of charging stations for electric vehicles and will be key in improving charging infrastructure.
How Will a U.S. Fed Interest Rate Hike Impact Oil Prices?
The oil markets will be keeping a close eye on interest rates, as any rate hike could push prices even lower.
Oil & Terrorism: Why Now Is Worse Than After 9/11
Between terrorism attacks on soft targets around the world, the struggle against ISIS, Syria’s civil war, and broader instability throughout the Middle East, the situation today is, in many ways, worse than post-9/11.
OPEC Is Down, But Not Out. Here’s Why
OPEC has faced many existential threats in the past, but it has always regrouped and reasserted its influence over the market. There's no reason to believe the cartel won't be able to do the same in the future.
Banks React to OPEC Meeting, See Prices Lower for Longer
Barclays notes, "For OPEC, managing the impossible trinity of achieving higher market share, higher prices and higher demand through a nominal target which members continue to breach continues to be difficult.”
Video: OPEC Meeting Results in a "Roll-Off."
Very low oil prices are making OPEC ministers quite concerned. But so far, with the composition of the membership in flux, there's been no change to current production policy.
Video: The Prospects for Kurdish Oil Sales
Kurdistan's oil sector remains open for business despite low prices, the dispute with Baghdad, and the ongoing fight against ISIS. Live reporting from Kurdistan-Iraq Oil & Gas Conference in London.
EPA Releases New Biofuel Targets, Frustrates All Sides in the Process
Although the EPA is simply conforming to the reality of the marketplace with its new biofuel blending targets, it is getting blasted by a number of industry groups.
Reserve-Currency Status for Yuan to Boost China’s Clout in Global Economy, Oil Markets
The IMF's inclusion of China’s yuan in the global currency basket gives the country a big symbolic victory ahead of the launch of its yuan-denominated crude futures exchange.
Hedge Fund Turbulence a Sign of Greater Economic Troubles?
Hedge funds have taken hits from lackluster equities and a big shake-up in commodities. The string of fund closures could be a harbinger of deeper structural issues in the economy.
Six Reasons to be Bearish on Oil; Six Reasons to be Bullish
With so many mixed opinions and divergent forecasts in the oil market, here are factors that could push prices either way.
Paris Attacks, Western Response to Add to Market Turbulence
For global oil markets, violent attacks by Islamic extremists prompt questions about vulnerability of economic growth, fluctuating geopolitical dynamics, and the future of supply in unstable regions.
It’s Too Early to Assume Peak Oil Demand. Here’s Why
It’s premature to say that oil demand will peak anytime soon, or to pinpoint an exact timeframe when it will plateau and eventually decline. Global oil demand is made up of a number complex factors that are always in flux.
Bakken’s Inevitable Downturn Means More Dependence on West African Imports
While output in the Bakken has held up relatively well, it is set for a dramatic decline, making East Coast refineries further dependent on imports.
Fuel Efficiency Gains Keep Gasoline Demand in Check as VMT Soars
Americans are driving more than ever, but gasoline demand remains below peak levels, indicating that fuel efficiency gains have kept consumption in check—at least to some degree.
OPEC’s History of Oil Market Management: It’s Complicated
While now is a time of unique challenge for OPEC and the future of the organization is up in the air, this is not the first time the cartel has faced external threats.
Natural Gas Vehicles: Cost Competitive, and Poised for Prime Time
Current low prices for natural gas and the ongoing production boom in shale gas should provide the perfect impetus to boost NGVs in the country’s automobile fleet.
Diesel Market Contending With Short-Term Glut, Long-Term Image Problem
The diesel market is dealing with two major issues, one of which is a short-term glut and the other which surrounds questions about its long-term outlook in the wake of Volkswagen cheating on emissions testing.
Selling SPR Oil Sets Dangerous Precedent as Energy Security Gains Stall
As the shale boom stalls and demand rises, Congress's willingness to sell oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve reflects the fact that lawmakers have grown complacent on energy security.
Ethanol and the RFS: Some Successes, Many Failures
The Renewable Fuel Standard's main purpose was to reduce U.S. dependence on oil by mandating production of renewable fuel, and in that regard, it has been successful, but only marginally.
How Are MENA Oil Exporters Faring With Lower Oil Prices? It’s Not Good
Saudi Arabia may run out of financial assets in five years if the government continues with current policies, according to the IMF.
Russian Sanctions Are Not Working
Russian sanctions have isolated the country from the West, but they have not changed President Putin’s overall strategic vision.
China’s Currency on Track to Challenge the U.S. Dollar in Oil Markets
China’s forthcoming launch of a crude futures exchange to be traded with the yuan is another major step to cement itself as a global economic powerhouse and challenge the U.S. currency’s dominance in oil markets.
Honeycomb Cargo Seeks Creative Solutions for Tank Car Safety
A rail technology startup seeks to make oil train derailments a thing of the past.
Seznec: Oil and Gas Give Saudi Arabia and Iran Scope to Reconcile
Adversaries Iran and Saudi Arabia, while having to overcome sectarian strife that has persisted for hundreds of years, will eventually take a realistic approach to their relationship and forge paths of cooperation, with energy at the forefront.
UPDATE: Reform SPR Policy, But Do It Wisely
There’s been a lot of discussion lately about a possible diminished role for the U.S.’ strategic crude stockpile now that the country’s imports have declined dramatically since their peak ten years ago and domestic production has boomed.
Citi Analyst: No Market Rationale for U.S. Crude Exports
Kleinman: There’s no market rationale for U.S. crude exports, now that the Atlantic basin is glutted with supply and the differential between U.S. and global oil prices has narrowed.
Five Reasons OPEC Might Cut Production in 2016
While the cartel may in fact hold steady throughout 2016 and ride out the low-price environment, there are still reasons we could see an OPEC cut next year.
US Crude Production Continuing to Fall? Not Necessarily
There’s been a twist in the narrative of falling US oil production. US crude output continues to defy expectations, with the latest government data showing that output actually rebounded in July.
Expert: No Price Impact from Higher Iranian Exports
There will be “no dramatic price impact” from a ramp-up of Iranian exports next year as volumes from the OPEC producer will be accommodated by other market developments, such as lower U.S. shale output, other non-OPEC losses, and a cutback by Saudi Arabia.
Oil Market Volatility and the Quants: What to Know
After a number of years of relative price stability, the oil market is again dealing with wilder fluctuations on a more regular basis, as technical traders such as the quants play a key role.
Stark Realities of the Global Underinvestment Risk
Underinvestment in the oil sector is increasingly looking like a major risk. With the lack of investment in today’s low-priced environment, the industry will likely see a very tight oil market down the road.
China’s New Crude Benchmark Will Flourish, Undermining Brent and WTI
China is poised to establish the world’s third crude futures benchmark, a logical step given the country’s growing importance in the oil markets and its determination to flex its economic muscle on a global scale.
Gas Could Trump Oil in Iran's Post-Sanctions World
Much of the energy discussion surrounding the lifting of Iranian sanctions has focused on the effects on oil prices, but Iran’s gas potential could shake up global gas markets and provide robust economic benefits for the country.
Saudi Arabia’s Strategy Working, But Economy Is Hurting
Following steady increases in output since last November’s OPEC meeting, Saudi Arabia’s production has fallen to its lowest level in six months. But that doesn’t mean the kingdom is giving up on its policy of sacrificing higher revenues for market share.
UPDATE: The Crude Oil Export Debate, Explained
Even as the Blue Dog Democrats get on board, the odds that Congress will reverse the ban on crude oil exports remain slim in the hyper-partisan campaign season.
Production Outlook, Timely Data in Flux in Rapidly Changing U.S. Crude Oil Landscape
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) has downwardly revised its U.S. production forecast for next year once again, the latest indicator of how low oil prices have affected high-cost shale output.
Beyond Keystone: Top Energy Security Issues for 2016 (That Candidates Are Likely to Ignore)
Presidential candidates for 2016 have talked immigration, taxes, jobs, social issues, and foreign policy, but critical energy issues have not been on anyone’s radar.
Top Five Oil Market Uncertainties
The Fuse takes on the top five oil market uncertainties—rampant volatility, U.S. production, Saudi Arabia's strategy, Chinese demand growth, and the U.S. crude oil export debate.
Conditions Deteriorate for OPEC’s Latin American Producers
The two OPEC Latin American countries, Venezuela and Ecuador, have always held unique positions in the global oil market because of their geographical advantage of being close to the U.S. But both have seen their importance fade dramatically against the backdrop of rising North American production and the drastic fall in oil prices.
WTI Prices Will Once Again Overtake Brent. Here’s Why
WTI's discount to Brent has held steady as of late around $4-$5 per barrel, and remains around that level far out on both futures curves. But shifting dynamics in the U.S. market, mostly declining output and strong demand growth, are likely to lift WTI back to a premium over European marker Brent.
With Crude Oil So Weak, Why Aren’t Drivers Seeing More Relief at the Pump?
With U.S. demand surging and exports on the rise, this summer has been a good time to be a refiner.
This Is What a Free Oil Market Looks Like
The oil market is now functioning the way a free market should: Numerous buyers and sellers are competing with one another in the marketplace, weeding out wasteful resource allocation and causing prices and costs to fall.
Obama's Energy Policy Frustrates All Sides
The Obama administration is continuing to carve out a middle ground when it comes to energy policy—satisfying neither environmentalists nor the energy industry in the process.
Crude Swaps With Mexico Give Nod to Industry, Won't Impact Global Market
The U.S. government has approved a crude oil swap agreement between the United States and Mexico, in the latest dent in the longstanding ban on exports of American crude oil.
Oil's Price Floor Still Elusive
WTI crude oil prices dropped to new lows this week, showing that oil's price collapse is still far from over.
OPEC Export Volumes Sky High, Just Not to the U.S.
Despite remarkably high output, less and less of OPEC’s oil is heading to the U.S. For the first half of 2015, U.S. buyers pulled in just 2.6 mbd from OPEC—roughly a third of total U.S. crude oil imports, versus about 55 percent seen at times last decade.
Norway Hit Hard by Low Oil Price, Outlook Remains Bright
Norway, which produces just under 2 million barrels per day (mbd), is not experiencing the social and political turmoil seen in Iraq, Venezuela or Russia, but it is still taking major hits from the precipitous drop in prices as a result of oil’s integral role in the country’s economy.
Energy Policy Act of 2005, Ten Years On
Although there has been significant progress in the past 10 years, the fundamental issue that Bush strove to correct—oil’s monopoly in the transportation sector—remains unresolved.
The Mixed Consequences of Lower Gasoline Prices
The massive drop in crude oil and gasoline prices has been a huge boon for the American consumer, but it has come at a cost—U.S. motorists have been driving more, furthering a rebound in demand and boosting the country’s reliance on imports of both crude and refined products while also mitigating recent gains in fuel efficiency.
Senator Murkowski on Alaska Production, Arctic Drilling, and Crude Oil Exports
Lisa Murkowski is a Senator from Alaska and the chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. She speaks with The Fuse about oil production in her home state, as well as energy policy at the state and national level.
Oil Market Scenarios: Up, Down or Sideways?
The oil market is shrouded in bearish sentiment at the moment as prices continue to trend downward, with Nymex West Texas Intermediate (WTI) falling from around $61 per barrel in the middle of June to $48. Continued pressure to the downside appears likely—but not inevitable.
Crescent Petroleum’s Majid Jafar: Oil Demand a Bigger Issue Than Supply
Crescent Petroleum’s CEO Majid Jafar, in an exclusive interview with The Fuse, said that demand issues had a bigger impact than supply in causing oil prices to fall in the past year, and decisions made now regarding transportation policy can bring about major changes 10-20 years down the road.
Mexico’s Initial Auction a Bust, But Region’s Pivot From Resource Nationalism a Positive
Mexico's historic initial auction, although it was a bust, is a positive reflection of how major producing countries in Latin America are moving away from resource nationalism—for now, at least—as they struggle in the current low oil price environment that shows no sign of turning around.
Oil Market Forecasts Likely to Be Off-Target
Forecasting oil markets has always been complicated and fraught with risk. Now is no different, with so much price volatility and global uncertainties.
