We've lost about 1.2 billion barrels of oil so far from Hormuz closure: S&P Global's Dan Yergin

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  May 18, 2026 at 13:05  |  6:08  |  CNBC
Speakers
Daniel Yergin — S&P Global Vice Chairman

Summary

Dan Yergin, S&P Global Vice Chairman, analyzes the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure on oil markets. He highlights that approximately 1.2 billion barrels have been lost from supply, inventories are draining, and summer demand will push prices higher. He notes that a potential deal could lower prices but cleanup would take months, and the physical market already shows tightness.

  • Strait of Hormuz closure has removed about 1.2 billion barrels of oil supply.
  • Inventories are being drained, preventing prices from skyrocketing so far.
  • Summer driving and air travel seasons will increase global fuel demand.
  • Physical cargo prices are rising faster than futures, indicating real shortage.
  • Iran has set up a toll system for ships, creating additional friction.
  • A potential deal could bring prices down to the 60s-80s, but recovery would take six months.
  • U.S. oil exports have helped partly offset the supply loss.
  • No immediate resolution is expected, keeping upward pressure on oil.
Trade Ideas
Daniel Yergin S&P Global Vice Chairman 0:30
Oil prices to rise on supply shortage
Oil prices are likely to rise further due to the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has removed about 1.2 billion barrels from supply. Inventories are draining, and summer driving season will increase global fuel demand. Physical cargo prices are already higher, indicating a genuine shortage. The crisis shows no signs of quick resolution.
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This CNBC video, published May 18, 2026, features Daniel Yergin discussing WTI. 1 trade idea extracted by AI with direction and confidence scoring.

Speakers: Daniel Yergin  · Tickers: WTI