This month begins the final quarter of the calendar year 2024, with an election only a few weeks from when you read this column. 

September marks the end of 2024’s third quarter, with many uncertainties affecting the prospects for the PVF industry sector of the economy.

August marks the midpoint of 2024’s third quarter, with oil prices trading at $3 lower per barrel in June and July. As of this writing, WTI is $82.80/barrel, and Brent is $86.29/barrel.

The rise in artificial intelligence (AI) has reignited concerns about electricity and strains on the power grid. 

This issue finds us at the end of 2024’s second quarter, with the economy at an anemic 1.6 percent growth rate and an inflation rate of 3.48 percent.

By the time this article is published, the industry will be midway through the second quarter of 2024, with the oil markets being buffeted by worries about supply shortages and escalating geopolitical tensions.

The second quarter of calendar year 2024 begins with crude oil prices edging higher on supply concerns as shipping disruptions continue to plague the supply chain.

In the middle of 2024’s first quarter, the Biden administration targeted Texas in retaliation to Gov. Greg Abbott’s stand on the border crises by asserting world environmental concerns. 

February brings good news for Alaska and ConocoPhillips.

The new year begins with optimism and apprehension for the energy sector of the U.S. economy. A federal appellate court has ruled that the Biden administration must go ahead with the oil and gas Lease Sale 261 without the “11th-hour” restrictions the administration added on acreage and ship speeds.