Squawk Pod: A blockade begins & dirty soda heads to the Golden Arches - 04/13/26 | Audio Only

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  April 13, 2026 at 17:34  |  40:20  |  CNBC
Speakers
Roger Altman — Founder and Senior Chairman of Evercore
Jens Stoltenberg — Former Secretary General, NATO
Dan Murphy — CNBC International Correspondent (Dubai)
Kelly Evans — Anchor, The Exchange (CNBC)

Summary

The episode focuses on the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after failed peace talks with Iran, analyzing its impact on oil prices and global markets. Guests Roger Altman and Jens Stoltenberg discuss economic implications, while news about McDonald's beverage expansion is also covered. The market shows a muted equity response but significant oil price movement.

  • President Trump announces a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following collapsed US-Iran peace talks.
  • Oil prices surge to triple digits, raising concerns about inflation and economic slowdown.
  • Roger Altman argues the blockade will take months to work, keeping oil prices elevated.
  • Jens Stoltenberg highlights that oil-producing countries like Norway benefit from high oil prices.
  • McDonald's is reportedly adding energy drinks and specialty sodas to boost profit margins.
  • Equity markets show limited reaction to the blockade, contrasting with oil volatility.
  • NATO's role in the conflict is discussed, with limited direct involvement from allies.
  • Other news includes Rory McIlroy winning the Masters for the second consecutive year.
Trade Ideas
Joe Kernen Co-Anchor, Squawk Box 17:39
McDonald's new drinks to boost profits.
McDonald's plans to introduce new energy drinks and specialty sodas, which are expected to generate higher profit margins, potentially boosting the company's financial performance.
MCD LOW
Roger Altman Founder and Senior Chairman of Evercore 20:43
Oil prices to stay high due to prolonged blockade.
The US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will require months to pressure Iran, leading to sustained high oil prices, contradicting market expectations of a quick decline. This will impact the US economy and financial markets, supporting elevated oil prices.
WTI HIGH
Jens Stoltenberg Former Secretary General, NATO 29:38
Oil producers gain from high oil prices.
Surging oil and energy prices benefit oil-producing nations like Norway and the United States, as they are net producers, which can positively impact their economies despite broader inflationary pressures.
ENOR MED
Up Next
0:45
Pope Says He'll 'Continue to Speak Out' Against War After Trump Attacks
Bloomberg Markets · Apr 13
1:36
Trump Claims Iran Wants to Make a Deal
Bloomberg Markets · Apr 13
43:17
‘Permanent’ Damage: Why The Economy Changed Forever | Justin Wolfers
The David Lin Report · Apr 13
1:28:06
Bloomberg Open Interest 4/13/2026
Bloomberg Markets · Apr 13
42:31
Full Interview: Roubini on Iran War, Oil Shock, AI Boom
Bloomberg Markets · Apr 13

This CNBC video, published April 13, 2026, features Joe Kernen, Roger Altman, Jens Stoltenberg discussing MCD, WTI, ENOR. 3 trade ideas extracted by AI with direction and confidence scoring.

Speakers: Joe Kernen, Roger Altman, Jens Stoltenberg  · Tickers: MCD, WTI, ENOR