Wake Up to Money Record release
Mar 12, 2026
Bill Farron-Price, an Oxford energy markets specialist, explains why a massive 400m-barrel oil release did not calm markets. Jane Somerville, MD of a West Midlands metal-former, shares how energy and commodity swings force urgent decisions for small manufacturers. They discuss market reactions, hedging choices and the wider risks to businesses and households.
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IEA Record Release Is A Short Term Cap
- The IEA coordinated a record 400 million barrel emergency release to cap oil prices amid escalating Gulf attacks.
- Bill Farren-Price notes the release equals about four days of global supply and so can only temper prices short-term.
Fix Energy Prices If Future Risk Is High
- Small businesses should consider hedging or locking energy contracts now to avoid larger future increases.
- Jane Somerville described receiving rapidly higher two-year electricity quotes and opting to fix rather than risk 30–40% rises.
Duration Of Conflict Dictates Economic Damage
- The conflict's duration is the key determinant of long-term energy pain and inflation.
- Bill Farren-Price warns prolonged disruption affects oil, refined products and LNG, raising broader supply-chain costs.