International Market Highlight – March 12, 2026

Westlark Advisors’ International Market Highlight

One constant in the energy market is change. Changes in energy markets today are increasingly influenced by events happening around the world. Markets continue to grow more complex and interconnected, making it more important than ever to keep track of what is going on not only across the street, but also across the globe.

At Westlark, our team is committed to working with you as partners, helping your business reach its unique goals. One way we demonstrate this commitment is by directing more attention to global markets. This increased attention, along with our expertise in North American markets, allows us to assist clients as they navigate the complexities of energy markets throughout the world.

Providing a Weekly International Market Highlight

We provide an International Market Highlight each week. Pulled from our weekly report, the International Buzz! this Highlight focuses on key issues from our analysis of the global energy markets.

Our team regularly monitors issues that impact shipping, affect energy pricing, and influence market activity in specific regions.

Wherever your business operates, we can provide a steady hand and a shared commitment so you can confidently build sustainable value and growth.

market indices, Hedging 201, future curve structure; energy market volatility; Q&A with the Westlark Advisors

Westlark Advisors International Market Highlight

March 12, 2026

outline map of Cuba with lights on blue background; energy market volatility

CUBA

A Cuban LPG tanker’s unconfirmed docking at Venezuela’s Jose terminal in early March may signal the first Cuba–Venezuela LPG shipment since sanctions halted trade, enabled by limited U.S. humanitarian licenses but shadowed by questions over authorization, financing, and enforcement amid tight U.S. monitoring.

outline map of Middle East on blue background, with lights; world energy highlight; energy market volatility

MIDDLE EAST

Escalating U.S.–Iran tensions and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz sent oil and fuel markets into extreme volatility, driving 30%+ weekly price gains, briefly lifting WTI and Brent above $100/bbl, and triggering sharp rallies in diesel and gasoline as supply disruption fears.

map outline of Asia, with lights on blue background, world energy highlight; energy market volatility

ASIA

Force majeure declarations in most Asian countries regarding crude oil and petrochemicals have triggered similar behavior in Middle Eastern countries. Undoubtedly, there will be upward pressure on prices due to shortages caused by military conflicts. On the other hand, the 30-day sanctions waiver for imports from Russia opens the possibility of exporting some of the oil to these countries.

outline map of India with lights on blue background; energy market volatility

INDIA

India has ordered all refineries and petrochemical plants to divert propane, butane, and related streams exclusively to domestic LPG supply under the Essential Commodities Act, banning petrochemical use to protect consumers amid Middle East–driven shortages.

If you are interested in more expert market commentary like this, contact a Westlark Team member today!

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International Market Highlight – March 12, 2026

By Gabriel Amundarain

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