Refiners are bypassing traditional oil traders to purchase Venezuelan crude directly, eroding trader revenues
Executive summary: Refiners began purchasing Venezuelan crude directly from producers, bypassing oil traders. The direct sourcing cuts trader commissions and shifts market power toward refiners and producers, affecting revenue streams in the oil trading sector.
Who is involved: Global refiners, major oil-producing firms, and commodity traders active in the Venezuelan crude market.
Likely next: Continued expansion of direct purchase agreements as refiners seek cost advantages, unless regulatory or sanctions barriers intervene.
According to Reuters, global refiners and major oil-producing firms are increasingly buying Venezuelan crude straight from producers, cutting out commodity traders who previously facilitated these transactions. This shift reduces the margin traders earn on each barrel and gives refiners greater control over supply costs. The move also signals a growing share of Venezuelan oil in the refining sector despite ongoing sanctions complexities.
Timeline
- — Global Refiners Are Cutting Out Oil Traders To Buy Venezuelan Crude Directly (OilPrice)
Analysis — what this means
Sectors affected
- Oil refining
- Venezuelan crude production
- Oil trading
Sources
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