Oil Predictions: Prices Likely High Amid Middle East Conflict

The ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East is expected to drive volatility in oil prices into the second half of 2026. Companies like ExxonMobil (XOM) and Chevron (CVX) have warned that oil prices will remain elevated even after the conflict subsides, due to supply chain disruptions and drawdowns in oil stockpiles. Additionally, growing global demand for oil and natural gas, combined with resource depletion, suggests persistent high prices. For ordinary investors, this indicates that demand for energy commodities will remain strong, potentially benefiting midstream companies like Enterprise Products Partners (EPD) and Enbridge (ENB).