
Jim Bianco|Mar 27, 2026 11:25
When Trump announced a delay to the bombing on Monday morning, crude oil futures immediately fell 10%.
Compare this to the reaction to yesterday afternoon, when he extended the delay another 10 days (red box). It was short-lived, and now, about 12 hours later, prices are meaningfully higher.
I believe the market signal is that the Strait must be opened, and the military must do it. The longer we delay starting this process, the higher crude oil prices will go. All Trump did yesterday was add 10 more days to the ongoing supply shock.
Any further statements by Trump about a deal are white noise to the markets. Only if the IRANIANS say the talks are going well will it impact markets.
Why isn't the crude oil market substantially higher (like $150+), like many are asking? I would argue that the market believes the military can open the Strait. But it will be "messy."
In other words, there are no good choices, only ones that are less bad.(Jim Bianco)
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