Looking at the Long Term

I talk a lot about the short term happenings, inventories, missile strikes, etc.  The real key is to look at the long term, minimally the mid-range.  While diesel demand kicked up a whopping 10% last week, the four week average is still down by 3.8%.  Similar with gasoline demand that showed strength last week, but is still down about 1% on a four week average.  As core inflation finally ticked down 2 basis points this week, what are the long term effects, should that trend continue?  The FED should start to cut interest rates, slowly over time.  Lower borrowing costs typically stimulate an economy, thus pushing up demand for fuels, and higher prices.  We are about $.15 higher on diesel pricing than we were last year at this time, and spent much of the early summer in a tight range, we may have some downside left as war premiums are shed.

I’ve been fortunate to be able to get out and meet with folks more over the last few months.  I always say that we strive to be Apple smart & Amazon fast to our customers, be it updating on the latest products or regulations, market sentiment, their specific needs, safety concerns, or getting you the fuel on time.  When I ask what matters most, its usually boils down to “make my life easier” and “don’t surprise me”.   Sounds simple, but in this extremely volatile business where everything is looked at under a microscope, it can be daunting some days.  However, I truly believe that nobody does it better than Burke.  Aligning your long term needs with a Supplier that is focused on those needs is what will make your life easier in the long run without any surprises.