International Market Highlight – April 23, 2026

Westlark Advisors’ International Market Highlight

Many things are happening in the energy market right now.  Events occurring across the world are influencing and impacting energy markets close to home.  As global energy markets continue to become more complex and interconnected, it is more important than ever to be aware of what is going on in the energy industry.  This means understanding not only the markets “next door,” but also being familiar with markets around the world.

The Westlark Team is committed to working with you as partners, helping your business reach its unique goals. To do this, we have increased our focus on global markets. This increased focus, along with our expertise in North American markets, allows us to assist clients as they navigate the complexities of energy markets across the street or across the globe.

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.

gas burners against a background of stock chart data; international market highlight; continued Middle East disruption; hedging financial spreads

Westlark Advisors International Market Highlight

April 23, 2026

map of the Middle East - Saudi Arabia, Iran, etc. LPG market highlights; continued Middle East disruption

MIDDLE EAST

Oil prices jumped as escalating Middle East tensions—marked by Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz—raised fears of prolonged supply disruptions along a route that handles about 20% of global oil flows, amplifying upside risks amid fragile diplomacy and tightening supply buffers.

CHINA

China has amassed the world’s largest strategic crude oil stockpile—estimated at about 1.4 billion barrels by end‑2025—combining government reserves and vast commercial inventories, a buildup that has surpassed all other countries and helped support global oil prices despite oversupply fears.

map of Colombia (also shows Venezuela and Ecuador)

COLOMBIA

Colombia’s LPG industry will convene at the 8th International LPG Congress, scheduled for August 19–20, 2026, in Bogotá, where public and private sector leaders will examine the strategic role of LPG in energy supply under the theme “Energy in Growth,” with support from leading international organizations and a major trade exhibition.

map of Canada (from a globe); continued Middle East disruption

CANADA

Canada’s propane stocks edged higher in April to 2.81 million barrels—nearly 12% above year‑ago levels—while butane inventories surged 50% year on year, driven by strong gains in Western Canada that outweighed declines in the East, according to the Canada Energy Regulator.

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

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International Market Highlight – April 23, 2026

By Gabriel Amundarain

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Westlark Advisors has partnered with energy firms since 1998 to provide transparent, value-driven commodity market advisory services.

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