Would like to hear your thoughts on the potential global economic consequences of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz? I have some takeaways about this situation: 1.The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and halted shipments could push Brent crude prices above USD 100/bbl if the blockade persists. 2.Geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty typically increase demand for safe-haven assets like gold. There are increasing doubts about the US dollar's safe-haven status from Central banks like the European Central Bank, this could suggest a potential shift in currency dynamics making other currencies (Swiss Franc) or commodities ( Gold or Silver) more appealing as a safe heaven. I believe we will see the same market drivers for 2026 specially that war is escalating very fast, we are seeing even more countries involved like many of the Gulf countries, . Dr.Spyros made a analysis of Gold rally in 2025 (It explains many of the market drivers we are seeing also in 2026, highly recommended!) 3. Energy Resilience The uncertainty surrounding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz raises important questions about the resilience of global energy systems. Given that there is no clear timeline for reopening, this disruption could act as a catalyst for countries to reassess their dependence on oil and gas. Several countries are already feeling the effects of supply constraints, and if the situation persists, we may see increased volatility in energy markets. In this context, the crisis could accelerate investment and policy shifts toward renewable energy sources, as nations seek to reduce exposure to geopolitical risks associated with fossil fuel supply routes. If the conflict evolves into a prolonged situation, repeated disruptions or closures over time could further reinforce the urgency of diversifying energy portfolios and strengthening energy security. Let me know your thoughts!

A new report on energy trends has been published in "Classroom", at the very end in the section "Energy Industry Support" (a special section with reports that explain the current status and trends in the energy sector). It is written in simple, easy-to-understand language with every terminology and jargon explained. It has been written by compiling data from official sources (Financial Times, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, the Economist, Forbes, Investors Chronicle etc). Feel free to use this report in your projects, work, or studies. As shown in the attached diagram, this report is about the global clean hydrogen market and the latest investment and project development trends. It explains how investment can keep rising even when some projects are cancelled, and why costs, infrastructure, and policy choices are shaping which regions are moving faster. Reading these reports can help with interviews, meetings, presentations, networking, and public speaking, so it is strongly recommended.

Recent interview question in Chevron. Happy to have some inputs. Thanks . - Department: Corporate Strategic Planning, interviewing jointly with Chevron New Energies (the division responsible for lower-carbon investments like hydrogen and carbon capture). - Target Role: Senior Quantitative Energy Economist - Interview Stage: Final Round / Executive Panel Presentation. You would likely be standing at a whiteboard in front of 3 to 4 senior directors. - 2 February 2026. - Format: the recruitment coordinator takes your mobile phone, laptop, and smartwatch. There is no AI, no internet, and no Python to run your simulations. You are led into a quiet focus room. On the desk is a printed piece of paper containing "The Carbon vs. Capital Conundrum" prompt, a basic scientific calculator, a notepad, and a pen. You are given exactly 45 minutes to digest the prompt, formulate your economic models from memory, and structure your recommendation.After 45 minutes, you are escorted into the boardroom to face the senior directors. You have nothing but your handwritten notes, a whiteboard, and a marker. Interview Question: " You are presenting to our executive investment committee. We have a strict capital expenditure (CapEx) limit for the upcoming fiscal year and can only fully fund one of two mega-projects. You must recommend which one we choose: Project Alpha (Deepwater Oil & Gas) - Location: Offshore West Africa - Financials: Spectacular projected Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 20% with a very fast payback period. - Risks & Downsides: The host country is experiencing growing political instability. Furthermore, the project has a massive carbon footprint that will push our corporate emissions well over our stated public reduction targets for the decade. Project Beta (Carbon Capture & Hydrogen Hub) - Location: US Gulf Coast - Financials: The economics are extremely tight. The baseline IRR is only 7%, which barely clears our corporate hurdle rate (minimum acceptable return). - Benefits: It operates in a highly stable geopolitical region, secures massive government tax credits, and practically guarantees we hit our corporate net-zero pledges.

A new report on energy trends has been published in the Classroom, at the very end, in the section “Energy Industry Reports.” It is written in simple, easy-to-understand language, with all terminology and jargon clearly explained. It also includes diagrams and draws on official sources such as the Financial Times, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Forbes, Investor’s Chronicle, and others. Feel free to use this report in your projects, work, or studies. As shown in the attached diagram, this report focuses on how the UK is using Contracts for Difference (CfDs) to accelerate new low-carbon electricity generation as it targets power sector decarbonisation by 2030. It explains the outcomes of the latest auction, including record solar awards (4.9GW) alongside onshore wind (1.3GW) and tidal power (about 21MW), and discusses what current strike prices suggest about market conditions. It also highlights key delivery risks, especially grid connection backlogs and planning delays, which could slow down project build-out. Reading these reports can directly help with interviews, meetings, presentations, networking, and public speaking, so it is strongly recommended.

Below is a nice and accurate website for electricity data such as wholesale prices, electricity demand etc. Link: https://app.electricitymaps.com/map