The scale of the proposed waiver remains negligible, accounting for roughly 12 hours of global supply. Experts suggest this volume is insufficient to influence American pump prices in the immediate term. Despite the modest economic impact, the decision has alarmed European capitals and Ukraine, particularly as winter approaches and the conflict intensifies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy signaled a willingness to halt strikes on Russian refineries, provided Moscow strictly honors a corresponding cessation of attacks on Ukrainian energy targets.

Market participants are now shifting focus toward the upcoming September CPI report, which is expected to show headline annual inflation hitting 3.7%. This data arrives during a high-stakes week featuring the International Monetary Fund’s annual meeting in Bangkok and the start of the third-quarter earnings season for major US banks. While US bond markets remain closed for the Columbus Day holiday, global crude prices have dipped to $103 per barrel despite escalating Houthi strikes on Riyadh airport.