WSJ What’s News WSJ What’s News

Where Are Oil Prices Heading?

Sep 20, 2026 · 15m

Summary

The episode examines the precarious state of Middle Eastern energy supplies following Houthi attacks on Saudi infrastructure and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Dow Jones energy head Andy Critchlow discusses how drone warfare has flipped global security dynamics, exposing vulnerabilities in US and Chinese naval protection. Reporters Benoit Morein and Conrad Putzier analyze the resulting surge in gasoline and diesel prices, noting that while energy inflation is high, it has not yet triggered broader core inflation. They explore limited government options, such as diesel export bans or price caps, …

Topics discussed

Sponsor message and show introduction Overview of global fossil fuel supply chain disruptions Introduction of guest Andy Critchlow How drones and surveillance have changed energy security risks China's exposure and the rise of electric vehicles US response to Houthi attacks and historical precedents Skepticism regarding Strait of Hormuz reopening forecasts Transition to US gasoline prices and sponsor break Impact of energy inflation on different demographics Airfare demand and core inflation concerns Energy executive perspectives on supply and price caps Political options for lowering prices before midterms Government policy options: price caps, cash, and interest rates Closing remarks and credits Sponsor message for David Booth's book
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