Financier №3 (43) 2026

The world’s key energy resource is at the center of global attention once again. Oil prices are volatile once more, sparking a host of questions: “Will the reserves be sufficient? What will happen to gasoline prices? Is it worth buying shares in oil‑producing companies?” Both investors and people far removed from the stock market are concerned about what’s happening and crave greater clarity.

However, such fluctuations in the oil market are hardly surprising: historically, oil prices have swung from one extreme to another. Half a century ago, a barrel cost less than a dollar. On the eve of the 2008 crisis, quotes were approaching $150, while in 2020, amid the pandemic, oil futures even fell below zero. Those who want to understand investing shouldn’t focus too intently on price swings. What really matters is grasping the true role oil plays in our lives. Speaking of which, it serves as the basis for producing more than 500 everyday products. Various fuels, plastics, synthetic fabrics, road surfaces, cosmetics, household chemicals, and medicines are all the result of advanced oil refining and chemical processing.

In this new issue of the Financier, we have sought to examine the oil market from every angle - from the economic consequences of a closure of the Strait of Hormuz (one of the key transport arteries for the energy market) to possible substitutes for crude oil in the not‑too‑distant future.

Our experts discuss promising exchange‑traded instruments linked in any way to “black gold”, as well as the less obvious beneficiaries of Middle Eastern conflicts. After reading this issue, you’ll also understand why the price of oil on the exchange and the price of fuel at the stations don’t always correlate, and how the largest oil‑producing countries have managed to overcome resource dependence and diversify their economies. The articles are accompanied by infographics that reveal the three major oil shocks, unexpected characteristics of hydrocarbons, military conflicts surrounding this resource, and much more.

The star of this issue is the legendary investor James Rogers. He co‑founded the Quantum Fund with George Soros and later embarked on a round‑the‑world motorcycle trip, believing that you need to see the markets you invest in with your own eyes. James shared with us the most important insights from that unique experience.

Enjoy your reading and wish you successful investments!