Oil Rises on Concerns of Extended Middle East Disruptions
Oil prices have risen for a second consecutive session as concerns over potential disruptions to Middle East supplies due to the US-Iran conflict continue to outweigh indications of improving crude exports from the region. Brent crude prices rose above $102 a barrel after a sharp previous-session gain. The ongoing tensions have supported the market, with concerns over tanker attacks, Strait of Hormuz disruptions, refinery outages, and tighter fuel supplies continuing to influence traders.
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- ✓ Oil prices rose for a second consecutive session on Tuesday as concerns over potential disruptions to Middle East supplies due to the US-Iran conflict continued to outweigh indications of improving crude exports from the area.
- ✓ Brent crude prices rose above $102 a barrel after a sharp previous-session gain.
- ✓ The ongoing tensions have supported the market, with concerns over tanker attacks, Strait of Hormuz disruptions, refinery outages, and tighter fuel supplies continuing to influence traders.
- ✓ Oil prices extended their declines for a sixth consecutive session on Wednesday as signs of progress in U.S.-Iran discussions reduced some of the geopolitical risk premium in crude markets.
What changed
Oil prices rose for a second day as US-Iran conflict fuels Middle East supply concerns, with Brent crude trading near $103 a barrel.
Live updates
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Oil Rises on Concerns of Extended Middle East Disruptions
Oil prices have risen for a second consecutive session as concerns over potential disruptions to Middle East supplies due to the US-Iran conflict continue to outweigh indications of improving crude exports from the region. Brent crude prices rose above $102 a barrel after a sharp previous-session gain. The ongoing tensions have supported the market, with concerns over tanker attacks, Strait of Hormuz disruptions, refinery outages, and tighter fuel supplies continuing to influence traders.
Why it matters
The recent rise in oil prices is linked to stalling progress in US-Iran talks and signs that the disruption to Saudi Red Sea crude oil exports may last longer than initially expected. The conflict in the Middle East has been a significant factor in the volatility of global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil exports, has been a focal point of tensions between the US and Iran. Global equity markets have also experienced volatility, with varied results across Europe and Asia.
What is confirmed
- Oil prices rose for a second consecutive session on Tuesday as concerns over potential disruptions to Middle East supplies due to the US-Iran conflict continued to outweigh indications of improving crude exports from the area.
- Brent crude prices rose above $102 a barrel after a sharp previous-session gain.
- The ongoing tensions have supported the market, with concerns over tanker attacks, Strait of Hormuz disruptions, refinery outages, and tighter fuel supplies continuing to influence traders.
- Oil prices extended their declines for a sixth consecutive session on Wednesday as signs of progress in U.S.-Iran discussions reduced some of the geopolitical risk premium in crude markets.
Still unconfirmed
- Trump denies offering concessions as Iran pushes Hormuz plan and flight disruption persists
What to watch next
- Progress in US-Iran diplomacy
- Impact of Strait of Hormuz disruptions on energy supplies
- Decisions on releasing additional fuel and crude reserves
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (19)
- www.cnn.com — The bond market is having a wild month. Oil is making things ...
- www.atfx.com — Crude Oil Extends Six-Day Losing Streak as Trump Signals Progress With Iran
- www.zerohedge.com — Futures Slide As Oil Jumps, Bond Selloff Resumes After Trump Spurns Iran Offer | ZeroHedge
- www.cnbc.com — Oil prices rise, snap five day losing streak as Iran vows it ...
- biz.heraldcorp.com — STOCKKospi tumbles below 7,000 as foreigners dump W3tr in Samsung Electronics, SK hynix - The Herald Busi....
- www.freepressjournal.in — Oil Prices Rise For Second Day As US-Iran Conflict Fuels ...
- ca.finance.yahoo.com — Oil extends gains as U.S.-Iran stalemate overshadows Saudi flows
- www.dtnpf.com — Oil Rises as Supply Disruptions Show No Sign of Easing
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Oil prices today: Brent Crude rises for second session as US ...
- gulfnews.com — US-Iran war: Talks continue, oil falls — what UAE residents need to know tonight
- www.channelnewsasia.com — Stocks drop and oil rises as Hormuz hopes fade
- www.profarmer.com — First Thing Today | Grains see corrective rebounds ahead of USDA reports
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Overseas Markets Mixed as Oil and Yields Drive Trade
Global equity markets finished a volatile week with varied results across Europe and Asia. In domestic trading, benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty recovered on Friday driven by value buying in blue-chip stocks. This rebound spanned the banking, oil and gas, and automobile sectors following a recent sharp sell-off. Energy markets continue to face volatility amid shifting geopolitical pressures in the Middle East and ongoing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
Why it matters
Market fluctuations follow intense geopolitical friction in the Middle East, where energy trade routes face disruption risks. Major stock indices experienced broad flatness over the prior week alongside surging bond yields and sharp oil price swings. Traders continue to monitor energy sector movements as broader macroeconomic and geopolitical indicators drive international market volatility.
What is confirmed
- Overseas stock markets ended a volatile week with sharply different results across Europe and Asia on September 26, 2026.
- Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty recovered on Friday due to value buying in blue-chip stocks.
- The Friday market recovery included activity in the banking, oil and gas, and automobile sectors following a sharp sell-off.
What to watch next
- Monday market open performance for Sensex and Nifty on September 28, 2026
- Further movements in GIFT Nifty, Nikkei, Taiwan, and Kospi cues
- Developments regarding energy sector pricing and Middle East maritime disruptions
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (3)
- jen.jiji.com — Verissimo, Sunday, September 27: today's guests and interviews
- www.livemint.com — Stock market prediction for tomorrow: Sensex, Nifty Monday, 28 Sept triggers | GIFT Nifty, Nikkei, Taiwan, Kospi cues
- www.europesays.com — Overseas Markets End Mixed as Oil, Yields Drive Trade
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Iran Demands End to US Naval Blockade as Hormuz Tensions Rise
Iran is conditioning the resumption of talks on the removal of a US naval blockade. This stance follows a UN statement demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which received backing from 80 countries. While oil prices have experienced sharp swings and bond yields have surged, major stock indices remained broadly flat over the week. These developments coincide with a period of high volatility in energy markets and shifting geopolitical pressures in the Middle East.
Why it matters
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Continued disruptions here threaten global energy security and price stability. This tension arrives as nations seek to diversify energy sources to reduce regional dependence.
Still unconfirmed
- Iran stated the US must lift its naval blockade before talks resume.
- 80 countries backed a UN statement demanding that Hormuz reopen.
- Major indices were broadly flat over the week despite surging bond yields and volatile oil prices.
What to watch next
- The US response to Iran's demand regarding the naval blockade.
- The outcome of the UN efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.hngn.com — Iran Hardens Hormuz Line After Netanyahu Draws UN Walkout
- www.marketscreener.com — Stocks shrug off bonds
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Global Markets React as US-Iran and Trade Talks Take Focus
Global markets and currency pairs adjust as investors weigh developments surrounding US-Iran news alongside an upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. US stock futures displayed mixed trends with the Nasdaq 100 holding flat following record highs, while the EUR/USD dropped to 1.1401 near late-July lows after a 58.4 US purchasing managers index pushed October Federal Reserve rate hike odds past 53 percent. Meanwhile, South Korea announced strategic plans to decrease its regional oil dependence below 50 percent by 2035 and expand critical mineral reserves to 365 days.
Why it matters
Energy market conditions remain sensitive to geopolitical developments in the Middle East following recent sessions of falling crude prices. Policymakers and traders continue to monitor broader macroeconomic signals, including interest rate trajectories influenced by Federal Reserve policy expectations and trade discussions between the United States and China.
What is confirmed
- US stock futures showed mixed trends on September 23, with the Nasdaq 100 remaining flat following record highs.
- The EUR/USD fell to 1.1401, near late-July lows, as a 58.4 US PMI lifted October Federal Reserve hike odds above 53 percent.
Still unconfirmed
- South Korea plans to cut regional oil dependence below 50 percent by 2035 and raise reserves of vulnerable critical minerals to as much as 365 days.
- UBS reports that Dubai bubble risk has eased since March, though the city remains fourth on its global index.
What to watch next
- Outcomes from the summit between Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping regarding trade disputes
- Federal Reserve policy decisions concerning October rate hike odds
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.livemint.com — US stock market LIVE updates: Dow Jones opens lower; Xi Jinping US visit, US-Iran news in focus
- www.tradingnews.com — EURUSD Tests 1.1400 on Fed Hike Bets — 150bp Rate Gap Targets 1.1300 Downside
- www.upi.com — South Korea plans 365-day reserves of vulnerable critical minerals
- enterpriseam.com — THIS MORNING: Airtel Money and Lindt steer clear of the UAE as EQT and Alibaba lean in
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Brent Crude Drops Below $100 as Prices Slide for Fourth Session
Brent crude prices fell to $99.82 a barrel, continuing a downward trend for the fourth straight session. Recent data shows Brent decreased 6.06 per cent over one week, while other crude oil prices dropped 9.76 per cent during the same period to $92.88 a barrel. This price retreat follows a period of volatility linked to Middle East supply concerns. While energy costs are currently sliding, some analysts suggest that war costs and strong demand could still keep inflation elevated.
Why it matters
Oil price fluctuations directly impact global inflation and equity markets, particularly in India. Saudi Arabia has spent months attempting to find alternatives to bypass the Strait of Hormuz to secure supply routes.
What is confirmed
- Brent crude oil prices decreased for four consecutive sessions.
- Brent crude is trading at $99.82 a barrel.
Still unconfirmed
- Crude oil fell 9.76 per cent over one week to $92.88 a barrel.
- Brent crude fell 6.06 per cent over one week to $101.03 a barrel.
- European benchmark gas is down 1.7 per cent at 71.96 euros a megawatt-hour.
- Copper futures rose 0.7 per cent to $14,762 a metric ton.
What to watch next
- Saudi Arabian efforts to establish shipping routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz
- Further shifts in Indian equity indices tied to energy cost declines
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (3)
- www.zeebiz.com — Crude Oil Drops 10% in a Week: Brent, WTI slide for 4th straight session — What it means for India?
- www.marketscreener.com — Saudi Arabia Spent Months Trying to Bypass Hormuz. For Now, There's No Way Around It. -- Commodities Roundup
- finance.yahoo.com — Inflation Pressures May Persist: ETFs Worth Watching Now
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Oil Prices Retreat as Middle East Diplomatic Efforts Increase
Crude oil prices fell on Monday as concerns over supply disruptions eased. Brent crude dropped 2% to $101.80 a barrel, continuing a retreat from recent peaks above $100. This decline in energy costs helped lift Indian equities, where the Sensex rose 0.87% to 74,944.46 and the Nifty climbed 0.47% to 23,455.60. While Asian stocks remained mixed overall, sentiment in India improved due to softer crude and gains in the realty and pharma sectors. In the U.S., diesel prices climbed above $6.50 a gallon.
Why it matters
Energy markets have been volatile due to tensions in West Asia. A shift toward diplomacy, including potential high-level meetings during the UN General Assembly, is currently countering the risk of supply shocks.
What is confirmed
- Brent crude oil fell 2% to $101.80 a barrel.
- The Sensex rose 0.87% to 74,944.46 and the Nifty rose 0.47% to 23,455.60 on September 21.
- Crude oil prices had recently traded above $100 a barrel.
Still unconfirmed
- Donald Trump indicated a willingness to meet Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during UN General Assembly meetings in New York.
- U.S. diesel prices climbed to new highs above $6.50 a gallon.
- European benchmark gas fell 3.7% to 76.58 euros a megawatt-hour.
- Copper futures rose 0.6% to $14,646 a metric ton.
What to watch next
- Outcome of the UN General Assembly meetings regarding Iran
- Further movement of Brent crude relative to the $100 threshold
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.cnbc.com — Stock futures rise slightly after Dow posts third straight losing week: Live updates
- www.marketscreener.com — Asian Stocks Mixed, Oil Declines as Supply-Disruption Concerns Ease -- Update
- www.indiatoday.in — Sensex, Nifty jump: 3 reasons why stock market is rising despite West Asia tensions
- english.dhanamonline.com — Crude slips again as Middle East diplomacy takes centre stage
- hdfcsky.com — Market Close Report Today, September 21, 2026 : Nifty, Sensex Gain After Six Weekly Declines
- www.marketscreener.com — U.S. Diesel Climbs New Highs Above $6.50 a Gallon -- Commodities Roundup
- note.com — 2026/9/20 | Rising logistics costs due to tanker shortages: How to protect costs and profits
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Global Markets Shift Focus to Fed Rates and Currency Fluctuations
Global financial markets shifted focus toward central bank policy and currency movements following recent Federal Reserve signals, contrasting with earlier energy price anxieties linked to Middle East supply risks. The won-dollar exchange rate surged significantly over a single week, settling into the 1,380 won range driven by a hawkish Federal Reserve stance. Meanwhile, equities demonstrated strong momentum as the Nasdaq 100 advanced during Thursday trading. This dynamic follows a prior period of crude oil declines and stock market rallies in regions such as Pakistan, indicating a broadening shift in macroeconomic drivers away from immediate commodity disruptions.
Why it matters
Market sentiment previously centered heavily on potential crude supply disruptions and shipping route risks originating in Saudi Arabia. As those immediate energy concerns cooled, attention turned back to monetary policy and currency valuations. The recent strengthening of the dollar against regional currencies reflects shifting expectations regarding U.S. interest rates.
What is confirmed
- The Nasdaq 100 advanced 1.7% in Thursday trading.
- The semiconductor sector surged 3.1% during Thursday trading.
- The won-dollar exchange rate surged 37.4 won in a single week, settling in the 1,380 won range.
Still unconfirmed
- The won-dollar exchange rate movement was driven by the U.S. Federal Reserve's rate hike and signals.
What to watch next
- Further central bank rate decisions and communications from the Federal Reserve
- Subsequent movements in the won-dollar exchange rate
- Continued performance metrics for the Nasdaq 100 and semiconductor sectors
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (2)
- seekingalpha.com — Weekly Commentary: Walked The Walk
- finance.biggo.com — Won-Dollar Surges 37 Won in a Week, Settles in 1,380 Range on Fed's Hawkish Stance
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Oil Futures Fall for Third Consecutive Session on Easing Supply Fears
Crude oil futures extended their decline to a third straight session on Friday as market concerns regarding Saudi Arabia supply disruptions cooled. The downward movement in energy prices supported gains in other asset classes, lifting gold to a one-week high and pushing the Pakistan Stock Exchange up nearly 1,850 points. This trend contrasts with earlier fears that regional Middle East supply disruptions and risks around key shipping routes would drive global fuel prices significantly higher and fuel global inflation.
Why it matters
Global markets continue to react to conflicting signals regarding Middle East energy supplies and broader macroeconomic shifts. While prior Saudi efforts to sustain exports and easing supply concerns have pulled futures down over three consecutive sessions, underlying inflation and transportation risks around critical shipping lanes remain a central focus for investors balancing commodity exposure.
What is confirmed
- Oil futures extended declines to a third consecutive session on Friday.
- Gold rose to a one-week high and headed for a weekly gain on easing oil prices.
Still unconfirmed
- Saudi oil supply disruptions and risks around key shipping routes are pushing fuel prices higher and raising concerns over global inflation and costs.
- The Bank of Japan raised rates to 1.25 percent for the first time in 31 years, and the yen was sold despite the rate hike due to the number of dissenting votes.
What to watch next
- Further movements in oil futures to see if the three-day downward trend continues or reverses.
- Developments regarding Saudi Arabia supply restoration and key shipping route security.
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (5)
- note.com — [Morning Edition] September 19 (Sat) 20 Business & Market News Highlights | BOJ Raises Rates to 1.25% for First Time in 31 Years, Yen at 157, Buffett Steps Down as C…
- tribune.com.pk — PSX up nearly 1,850 points on interest in bank, cement stocks
- www.livemint.com — Gold rises to one-week high, heads for weekly gain on easing oil prices
- www.marketscreener.com — Oil Futures Fall for Third Day on Easing Supply Concerns -- 3rd Update
- www.businesstimes-bd.com — Saudi oil supply crisis may push global prices higher
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Oil Prices Decline While Remaining Above $100 per Barrel
Crude oil prices fell approximately 1% on Thursday as Saudi Arabia implemented measures to sustain exports despite Middle East supply disruptions. Brent crude dropped 1.2% to $104.57 a barrel, and WTI crude declined 0.9% to $101.50 a barrel. This downward movement follows the Federal Reserve's first interest rate hike in three years. Despite the dip, both major benchmarks remain above the $100 threshold as investors balance the impact of regional strikes against Saudi efforts to maintain global supply.
Why it matters
Previous price spikes were driven by strikes on the Strait of Hormuz and Saudi Arabia, alongside the closure of the Saudi East-West Pipeline. Asian refiners in Japan and South Korea are shifting preference toward Oman Export Blend to secure supply. The broader market is also reacting to a prolonged war between the United States and Iran.
What is confirmed
- Brent crude oil fell 1.2% to $104.57 a barrel.
- WTI crude oil fell 0.9% to $101.50 a barrel.
- Major crude benchmarks remained above $100 per barrel.
- Oil prices settled about 1% lower on Thursday.
Still unconfirmed
- The United States and Iran are engaged in a prolonged war.
What to watch next
- Further interest rate decisions from the Bank of Japan.
- Updates on Saudi Arabian export volumes through Oman.
- Changes to fuel tax policies in South Korea after November.
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.marketscreener.com — Oil Prices Slip After Fed's First Rate Hike in Three Years -- Commodities Roundup
- finance.yahoo.com — Oil Prices Decline as Saudi Arabia Takes Steps to Maintain Crude Exports
- finance.yahoo.com — Oil falls 1% as investors watch Middle East supply disruptions
- www.zawya.com — Oman crude demand rises as Asian refiners prioritise supply security
- www.marketscreener.com — Dax likely to open lower, Japan rate hike in focus
- news.sbs.co.kr — Fuel Tax Cut Extended Through Late November; Highway Gas Prices to Drop by 100 Won During Chuseok
- www.businesstimes.com.sg — Greenback eases from peak as oil prices extend decline; BOJ in focus
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Oil Eases as Saudi Supply Eases Fears; Fed Hikes Rates
Crude prices retreated from previous highs on reports that Saudi Arabia is offering extra crude cargoes through Oman, reducing supply anxiety. However, prices remained above $100 a barrel. The retreat follows earlier spikes driven by strikes on Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the closure of the Saudi East-West Pipeline. Meanwhile, stock futures showed little change following a market sell-off triggered by the Federal Reserve raising the overnight funds rate by a quarter percentage point. Fed Chair Warsh noted that the economy has strengthened, though inflation remains elevated, and the central bank signaled that another rate hike could occur later this year.
Why it matters
Global financial markets face simultaneous pressures from volatile energy costs and tightening monetary policy. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates in response to persistent inflation risks, which were exacerbated by earlier disruptions in Middle East energy infrastructure. Investors are closely tracking how central bank actions will balance slowing global equities against sustained commodity price pressures.
What is confirmed
- The Federal Reserve raised the overnight funds rate by a quarter percentage point and signaled another hike could come this year.
- Fed Chair Warsh stated that the economy has strengthened, but inflation remains elevated.
- Oil prices eased on reports of Saudi Arabia offering extra crude cargoes through Oman.
- Stock futures changed little after the Fed rate hike sparked a market sell-off.
Still unconfirmed
- US President Donald Trump is scheduled to hold Iran talks with Gulf leaders next week in New York to focus on postwar strategy.
What to watch next
- Implementation and market impact of additional Saudi crude cargoes routed through Oman
- Potential scheduling and outcomes of upcoming Iran talks between US and Gulf leaders in New York
- Further Federal Reserve decisions regarding additional rate hikes later this year
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.usatoday.com — Interest rate decision live: Fed expected to hike rates as prices rise
- www.cnbc.com — Stock futures are little changed after Fed's rate hike spurs a market sell-off: Live updates
- tribune.com.pk — Trump to hold Iran talks with Gulf leaders next week in New York: Axios
- www.marketscreener.com — Oil prices extend losses as fears of Middle East supply disruptions ease
- www.theglobeandmail.com — Stocks end lower after Fed hikes interest rates, sees more tightening ahead
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Oil Jumps as Middle East Strikes and Hormuz Risks Stoking Supply Fears
Crude prices climbed more than $3 following strikes on Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz, alongside the ongoing closure of the Saudi East-West Pipeline. Brent crude advanced 2% to reach $107.82 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate gained 2.1% to $103.50 a barrel. The supply concerns sparked broad downward pressure on global equities and pushed Treasury yields higher as investors braced for central bank policy meetings. Asian and European markets fell alongside U.S. stock futures as energy costs fueled inflation worries.
Why it matters
The disruptions expose vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains and compound winter crisis concerns across consumer economies. Ongoing Houthi advances and regional conflict escalation have kept maritime transit risks elevated near critical shipping lanes. Markets are responding concurrently to tightening commodities and monetary policy decisions from the Federal Reserve.
What is confirmed
- Oil prices jumped more than $3 following new strikes on Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz.
- Brent crude oil is up 2% to $107.82 a barrel.
- WTI crude oil is up 2.1% to $103.50 a barrel.
- The Saudi East-West Pipeline remains shut.
Still unconfirmed
- European benchmark gas is down 0.9% to 81.81 euros a megawatt-hour.
What to watch next
- Developments surrounding the status of the Saudi East-West Pipeline and maritime transit safety in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Decisions from the Federal Reserve's monetary policy meeting.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (16)
- Bloomberg.com — Energy Markets Signal Winter Crisis and Rising Interest Rates
- Yahoo Finance — Oil prices jump more than $3 after new strikes on Saudi, Strait of Hormuz
- The New York Times — Oil Prices Jump on Energy Supply Worries
- Bloomberg.com — Charting the Global Economy: Oil Surge Fans Global Inflation
- WSJ — Oil Rises on Concerns of Extended Middle East Disruptions
- cnbc.com — Oil extends gains following Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia
- WSJ — Oil Rises as Stabilizers in Crude Market Start to Weaken
- Bloomberg.com — Asian Stocks to Fall on AI, Key US Yield Tops 5%: Markets Wrap
- ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos — Iran live updates: Oil prices rise after strikes in Saudi Arabia, Strait of Hormuz
- Crude Oil Prices Today | OilPrice.com — Oil Prices Rise on Saudi Pipeline Outage and Rising Red Sea Risks
- WSJ — Oil Prices Rise as Middle East Supply Concerns Persist
- www.marketscreener.com — Oil Prices Rise as Saudi East-West Pipeline Remains Shut, Houthi Advances Keep Supply Risks Elevated -- Commodities Roundup
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