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Oil prices retreat, Asian shares rise after report of planned IEA oil reserve release – business live

International Energy Agency reportedly proposed argest release of oil reserves in its history to bring down crude pricesGood morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of business, the financial markets and the world economy.Oil prices have pulled back and Asian shares rose after the Wall Street Journal reported that the International Energy Agency has proposed the largest release of oil reserves in its history to bring down crude prices.Several major questions loom over the oil market’s trajectory. Chief among them is the timing of safe passage for vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supply.Another concern is the possibility of infrastructure damage... Even if major hostilities subside, the prospect of ongoing low-level Iranian drone attacks on energy infrastructure could prolong market instability into next year.I think it’s very likely that we’ll see gold get to over $6,000 an ounce by the third or fourth quarter this year.9.45am GMT: Treasury Committee to quiz Rachel Reeves about spring forecast12.30pm GMT: US inflation for February (previous: 2.4%, forecast: 2.4%) Continue reading...

Mar 11, 2026 &03411111202631; 07:41 UTC www.theguardian.com Trending 4/5

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Neutral impact

Sentiment score: -5/100

High impact Short-term (days)

WHAT THIS MEANS

The International Energy Agency's proposed largest-ever oil reserve release aims to reduce crude prices, causing oil to retreat and Asian shares to rise. However, geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and potential Iranian infrastructure attacks present ongoing supply risks that could sustain market volatility into 2025.

AI CONFIDENCE

72% High

SENTIMENT GAUGE

NEWS POWER SCORE

AFFECTED ASSETS

↓

Oil (WTI Crude)

CL=FCommodity

Expected to decline

IEA's largest-ever oil reserve release proposal directly pressures crude prices downward

↑

Gold Futures

GC=FCommodity

Expected to rise

Geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty drive safe-haven gold demand toward $6,000+ per ounce

↑

Euro Stoxx 50

^STOXX50EIndex

Expected to rise

Asian shares rise on oil price retreat; European energy stocks may face pressure but broader market benefits from lower energy costs

⇅

Euro / US Dollar

EURUSDCurrency

High volatility expected

Oil price movements and geopolitical risks create currency volatility; lower energy costs support European economic sentiment

PRICE HISTORY

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⚡ SUGGESTED ACTION

Short crude oil positions on the IEA reserve release, but maintain long gold and defensive positions due to unresolved geopolitical risks. Monitor Strait of Hormuz developments closely as they could reverse oil gains; consider energy sector hedges given infrastructure vulnerability.

KEY SIGNALS

Largest IEA oil reserve release in history announcedOil prices retreating on supply increase expectationsStrait of Hormuz passage timing remains critical uncertaintyIranian drone attack risks on energy infrastructure persistGold expected to reach $6,000+ by Q3-Q4 2025Asian equities rally on lower oil prices

SECTORS INVOLVED

EnergyCommoditiesFinancialsUtilities

Analysis generated on Mar 12, 2026 at 02:02 UTC

Disclaimer: This analysis is generated by artificial intelligence for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendation, or solicitation. Original reporting by The Guardian Business. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Oil prices retreat, Asian shares rise after report of planned IEA oil reserve release – business live

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