Energy stocks soar to record as oil rises on Trump’s hard line

Energy stocks have surged to record levels following a rise in oil prices, driven by former President Donald Trump’s hard-line stance amid escalating Middle East tensions. As of August 18, 2026, Brent crude is priced around $91.3 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude stands at approximately $85.1 per barrel. These prices are nearing recent highs, reflecting the geopolitical strains affecting global oil supply. Market participants appear to view this development as consistent with scenarios where crude oil prices could continue to rise, potentially reaching new all-time highs. Key Takeaways Rising oil prices and heightened Middle East tensions appear to be driving energy stocks to record levels, as reported by Bloomberg. Crude oil prices, with Brent at $91.3 and WTI at $85.1 per barrel, suggest market participants expect further price increases. Current market pricing for crude oil reaching a new all-time high by September 30 remains low, but the December 31 market indicates slightly increased confidence. What to Watch Watch for geopolitical developments in the Middle East and any announcements from key energy organizations such as OPEC and the International Energy A...