Squawk Pod Inside Energy: Power Rations & Asia’s Supply 03/24/26
6 snips
Mar 24, 2026 
Ira Robbins, CEO of Valley National Bank, on small- and midmarket lending, loan pipelines, and liquidity pressures. Victoria Coates, former deputy national security advisor, on Iran’s political chaos, U.S. coordination with Israel, and secure information access for Iranians. They discuss Middle East military options, Strait of Hormuz transit risks, Asia’s LNG supply strains, and private credit redemption concerns.
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Iran Escalation Is Driving Oil Volatility
- Iran is escalating missile and drone attacks across Israel and Gulf states while denying talks with the U.S., creating market volatility and oil price swings.
- Dan Murphy reports a “trickle” of insured ships are transiting Hormuz amid reports of mines and ad-hoc arrangements by China and India.
Asia Faces Potential Natural Gas Shortfall
- Asia's LNG supply is at risk as the last Qatar cargoes are arriving and future shipments are uncertain, pushing spot LNG prices to ~$18–$20 per unit.
- Brian Sullivan warns Taiwan, Japan, and parts of South Korea may face power rationing if shipments don't resume quickly.
High Gas Prices Could Dent Global AI Buildouts
- Rising global gas prices could threaten planned AI data center builds outside the U.S., even if U.S. AI capex remains intact.
- Venture Global's CEO notes Asia gas prices are roughly $2 per unit higher than Europe due to transport distance.