Sanctions on Russia are increasing, not decreasing, its revenue

The European Union has just approved new sanctions against Russia, including a price cap on oil sales, following the United States’ Sept. 30 announcement of new economic sanctions. Both announcements are in response to Russia’s annexation of four regions of Ukraine. However, because there are still countries willing to purchase Russia’s petroleum products, sanctions are increasing Russia’s revenue, not decreasing it.

By Noha Razek and Brian McQuinn

View More Sanctions on Russia are increasing, not decreasing, its revenue

Oil price shocks have a long history, but today’s situation may be the most complex ever

The world is in the grip of an oil price shock. In just a few months, prices have risen from US$65 a barrel to over $130, causing fuel costs to surge, inflationary pressure to rise and consumer tempers to flare. Even before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prices were climbing rapidly because of roaring demand and limited supply growth.

By Scott L. Montgomery

View More Oil price shocks have a long history, but today’s situation may be the most complex ever