Revolutionary Guard

Crude oil futures dropped nearly 8% as traders priced in hopes of progress around the Strait of Hormuz, even as tanker movement has yet to confirm a reliable recovery. Tight U.S. crude inventories, weak demand signals, OPEC+ quota increases and shipping risks through Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb now shape the next move for WTI and Brent.

Gold, oil and the USD Index are entering a decisive stretch as technical signals, month-end behavior and Federal Reserve messaging converge. Energy traders are also weighing severe Strait of Hormuz disruption risks against a recent oil pullback tied to a bombing pause and negotiations.