'Economic D-Day' & Refining Realities: Craig Seigle

Michael is joined by Clay Seigle, Managing Director of Beacon Global Strategies' newly announced energy practice and former James R. Schlesinger Chair at CSIS, for an expert briefing on volatile global energy markets. Clay breaks down the economic dynamics underpinning $90-a-barrel oil, explaining how the ongoing standoff in the Strait of Hormuz, presidential messaging, and severe global refining bottlenecks are driving price fluctuations. He also analyzes the impact of Ukraine's drone strikes on Russian fuel throughput and examines the broader implications of tightening global diesel markets. Turning to the Western Hemisphere, Clay assesses the long-term feasibility and legal complexities of new U.S. investment frameworks for upgrading Venezuela's heavy sour crude resources. Finally, he highlights critical flashpoints to watch, including commercial shipping risks across the Red Sea.