Oil markets brace for maintenance season

Oil markets brace for maintenance season

August 31, 2026 · 27 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the implications of maintenance season in oil markets amidst high refinery capacity and explores various economic stories.

In Texas oil country, September usually marks the beginning of maintenance season. But with refineries running at near-100% capacity to meet increased demand, this fall might look a bit different. In this episode, can the global oil market weather an even tighter supply squeeze? Plus: Fed watchers expect an interest rate hike in September despite Trump’s opposition, U.S. consumers keep up spending in the face of mediocre jobs data, and ski resorts hoard snow for the warmish winter. Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter. Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future. Read the stories in today’s episode: Why interest rate expectations are pointing north The 'meh' job market hasn't slowed consumer spending much Inside the business of selling people their own family photo albums After a disastrous foray into real estate, this first-time buyer didn't let fear hold her back Can U.S. refineries afford to slow down for maintenance season? Ski resorts keep some snow in the bank this summer

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