Oil prices hover near highs as Hormuz risks keep markets on edge

oil prices
oil prices
Published August 20, 2026 12:00 AM
(Web Desk): Oil prices remained cautious on Thursday as investors assessed the impact of the US-Iran war and shipping risks around the Strait of Hormuz.

Global oil prices showed a cautious trend at the start of Thursday’s trading session as investors closely monitored developments in the US-Iran conflict and their potential impact on crude supplies.

Brent crude futures for October delivery rose 25 cents, or 0.3%, to reach $92 per barrel during early trading.

The increase came as traders remained concerned about possible disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes.

WTI Shows Mixed Trend

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for September delivery moved slightly lower, falling 2 cents to $85.81 per barrel.

However, the more actively traded October WTI contract gained 14 cents, or 0.2%, to reach $84.53 per barrel.

The mixed movement reflected continued caution among investors as they assessed supply risks and geopolitical developments.

Prices Remain Near Recent Highs

Both major oil benchmarks had gained for a fourth consecutive trading session on Wednesday.

 

 

Brent and WTI had also reached their highest levels since July 24 during the previous session, highlighting the growing pressure on global energy markets.

Hormuz Remains Key Risk

The Strait of Hormuz remains a major focus for oil traders because disruptions to shipping through the waterway could affect global crude supplies and push prices higher.

Investors are therefore closely watching developments between the United States and Iran, particularly any changes affecting commercial shipping in the region.

Analysts are expected to remain cautious as geopolitical uncertainty continues to influence oil markets, with further developments around the Strait of Hormuz likely to determine the direction of crude prices in the coming sessions.

Currency / Metal / Petrol Rates
Currency → PKR
Currency Pair Rate (PKR) Change
🇺🇸 US Dollar USD → PKR 277.63 ▲ 0.05
🇪🇺 Euro EUR → PKR 324.12 ▲ 2.76
🇬🇧 British Pound GBP → PKR 377.60 ▲ 1.88
🇸🇦 Saudi Riyal SAR → PKR 73.91 ▼ 0.18
🇦🇪 UAE Dirham AED → PKR 75.60 ▲ 0.02
🇨🇳 Chinese Yuan CNY → PKR 41.25 ▲ 0.09
Current Metals
Metal Unit Price (PKR) Change
Gold 24K Per Tola 451,973 ▼ 3,557
Gold 22K Per Tola 414,308 ▼ 3,260
Gold 21K Per Tola 395,476 ▼ 3,112
Gold 18K Per Tola 338,979 ▼ 2,667
Silver Per Tola 6,557 ▼ 209
Platinum Per oz (USD) 1,718 ▼ 40.3%
Current Petrol
Fuel Type Unit Price (PKR) Change
Petrol Super Per Litre 334.54 ▲ 3.34
Diesel HSD Per Litre 261.81 ▲ 5.11
High Octane Per Litre 445.00
Kerosene Per Litre 300.85 ▲ 4.22
LPG Per Kg 254.32
Must Read