Middle East on the brink

Neil Crosby

23 June 2025 Time to read: minutes

Commentary summary:

• Full Strait closure unlikely but many scenarios lie in between that an full access.

• Murban- WTI landed values in Far East narrow, but WTI still priced out.

• MEH values driven into negative territory amid huge US stock draws.

• Refineries incentivised to run hard ex-MEG. Asian players may soon scramble for some Western barrels, some of which are just profitable in the East despite the EFS.

• China may reduce crude stock-building as a first response.

Neil Crosby is an experienced energy market and commodity analyst, specialising in crude oil, oil products, biofuels, and carbon. With roles at OilX and JBC Energy, he has extensive expertise in global oil industry analysis, forecasting tools, bespoke research, and client communication. His focus on refining and petrochemicals underscores his specialisation.

Sparta is a live, market intelligence and forecasting platform that enables oil traders, refiners, banks, hedge funds and wholesalers to have access to real-time and global actionable insights to capture market opportunities before others.

To find out how Sparta can allow you to make smarter trading decisions, faster, contact us for a demonstration at sales@spartacommodites.com

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Middle East on the brink

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