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BAKKEN WIRE
The Midday Take - Energy Market Briefing
Global Markets

Energy Market Briefing

Bakken Wire Staff·🔆Midday Wire·
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DAILY BRIEFING: MIDDAY, THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

1. Headlines

Oil prices are sharply higher today. WTI crude is trading at $86.46, up $2.07 (2.45%), while Brent is at $93.57, up $1.95 (2.13%). According to reports from Rigzone, the primary drivers cited are surging refinery demand and escalating tensions in the Middle East. Refinery demand is being highlighted following data showing U.S. diesel margins have topped $100 per barrel, a record high.

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