Gasoline Futures Rebound

US gasoline futures rose above $3.20 a gallon after hitting a three-week low, as shipping disruptions persisted following reports that a tanker was struck near the Strait of Hormuz. Global fuel markets also faced tighter supply prospects after Russia extended its diesel export ban, as a wave of Ukrainian strikes against its refineries dragged oil-processing rates to multiyear lows, while the US considers its own curbs on exports, despite broader opposition from the oil industry. Adding to upward pressure on gasoline prices, EIA data showed US gasoline inventories fell by 1.7 million barrels in the week ended September 25th, above market expectations, while refinery utilization declined to 92.5%. However, crude exports from the Persian Gulf continued to recover. Gasoline prices have eased from recent peaks following the end of the US summer driving season, as refiners transition from more expensive summer-grade fuel.

US gasoline futures fell to around $3.10 per gallon, remaining near a four-week low, amid seasonal weakness in fuel demand and easing crude oil prices. Gasoline consumption usually declines after the US summer driving season, while refiners switch from higher-cost summer-grade fuel. Meanwhile, crude oil prices have eased from their recent four-month high, as improving crude flows from the Middle East and the US government’s plans to tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve helped reduce immediate supply concerns. Markets also continued to assess potential changes to US fuel policy, with President Donald Trump still considering a diesel export ban despite administration officials pursuing alternative measures. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has favored voluntary export curbs instead, while the administration is considering broader sales of tax exempt, red-dyed diesel.

US gasoline futures fell to around $3.10 per gallon, declining for a fourth consecutive session to a four-week low, pressured by seasonal weakness and easing oil prices. The end of the US summer driving season typically reduces gasoline consumption, while refiners shift away from costlier summer-grade fuel. At the same time, crude oil prices, while still above $90 per barrel, have retreated from a four-month high of $106 reached on September 15. Markets also continued to assess potential changes to US fuel policy, with President Donald Trump considering a diesel export ban. Such a move could prompt refiners to adjust crude runs and product yields, potentially reducing gasoline output and tightening domestic supply. However, other administration officials are considering alternatives, with Energy Secretary Wright favoring voluntary export curbs and the White House weighing broader sales of tax-exempt red-dyed diesel. Meanwhile, gasoline inventories stood 6% below the 5-year average.