Petrochemicals, Pipelines, and Pre-Holiday Positioning

Future markets have gained some momentum in the last few days, adding about $.15 ahead of the long weekend.  While there are plenty of happenings to support the increase, ultimately my sense is that most don’t want to go away for three days short in a volatile market.  That is, there is a sense that the overall temperature of World has come down a bit from a few weeks ago.   

A few little things that may have gone unnoticed.  The US has lifted the ban on ethane to China this week.  I know, what the hell is ethane?  It is a critical petrochemical that is found in just about everything we touch on a daily basis.  Who has the most of it?  We do.  Who needs it the most? China.  A pipeline gained Presidential approval expected to haul crude an finished product from Alberta to the Midwest, a quai substitute for the failed XL extension project.  Additionally, many parts of the “Big Bill” that passed the Senate this week aim to phase out many non-oil based energy subsidies.  A lot to digest, but again, on the surface at least we are talking with other countries, not shouting.  We know what goes into running your business and work hard to make it easier for you.  Our online portal, paperless invoicing, access to reporting data, a dedicated professional Rep at your service, all working for you and to allow you to focus on running your business. They may seem like little things, but how many of us have a stack of little things to do?