Focus Talk with Alain de Botton

Brent crude approached $95 a barrel last week, its highest since mid-July, as markets reacted to Iran’s missile attack on the UAE and President Trump’s plan to isolate Iran economically. Investors fear prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz or renewed attacks on Gulf infrastructure. Please note: this podcast is…

Brent crude remains in the high $80s as hopes fade for a US–Iran agreement and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz stays severely disrupted. Longer-dated crude prices suggest continued uncertainty, while gasoil futures point to sustained pressure on UK diesel and jet fuel costs. Please note: this podcast is provided…

Hopes of a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz pushed Brent below $80/b last week, but progress has proved elusive. With talks dragging on and tensions across the region continuing, confidence in a breakthrough is fading and Brent has climbed back to around $84/b. Please note: this podcast is…

Brent crude has slipped below $83 a barrel after Donald Trump announced another ceasefire, echoing last week’s brief market relief before fighting resumed. This episode examines the binary outlook for oil: progress in talks or renewed hostilities. Please note: this podcast is provided for information purposes only and should not…

Brent topped $100/b last week, driven by escalating US-Iran tensions and Houthi attacks threatening Saudi crude exports through the Red Sea. Prices have since retreated to around $90/b after the US paused action and Iran-Oman talks showed tentative progress. Please note: this podcast is provided for information purposes only and…