Economy · September 2026

Washington, September 1, 2026 – U.S. energy storage installations hit a record high in the second quarter, while a U.S. oil deal pushed China and Russia out of Venezuelan oil fields, reshaping regional influence. Crude inventories fell amid continued Strategic Petroleum Reserve draws, and oil prices climbed as President Trump threatened new strikes on Iran, adding to market volatility. Global bond yields surged as oil prices fueled inflation worries, with Britain's borrowing costs hitting their highest level since 2008. Two supertankers were hit by unknown projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz, following yesterday's report of mines striking a vessel there (ongoing coverage). Saudi Arabia returned to international debt markets with a dollar-bond offering and is reportedly seeking an $8 billion loan. Dubai Islamic Bank closed its debut $750 million syndicated Islamic financing deal.