Focus Talk with Alain de Botton

Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated again, with flashpoints centred on the Strait of Hormuz. Despite ongoing indirect negotiations, disagreements over the US naval blockade and Iran’s nuclear stance triggered renewed friction. Please note: this podcast is provided for information purposes only and should not be construed as…

Oil prices continue climbing amid stalled US–Iran negotiations, sustaining geopolitical risk premiums critical for UK commodities markets. Uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved, with no clear timeline for reopening. Please note: this podcast is provided for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer, or…

Oil markets are volatile as mixed signals from US–Iran diplomacy unsettle sentiment. Prices fell sharply on Friday, with Brent dropping from near $100/bbl to ~$85, after apparent progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but conflicting statements and a tanker attack suggest it remains closed. Please note: this podcast is…

US–Iran talks stalled over the weekend, with Washington demanding firm guarantees that Tehran won’t pursue nuclear weapons. While Iran signalled more negotiations may follow, tensions rose after Trump threatened a targeted blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices opened higher, though the move reflects fading optimism from last week…

Tensions are rising as yet another Trump-imposed deadline on Iran looms, with the Strait of Hormuz at the center of a high-stakes geopolitical standoff. Despite escalating rhetoric and fragile backchannel diplomacy, markets have remained surprisingly calm, even as oil and refined product prices quietly surge beneath the surface. Please note:…