Natural Gas Prices Rise Amid Middle East Tensions and Strait of Hormuz Risks

Natural gas prices have surged amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly concerns over potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for nearly 20% of global LNG trade. Prices on India's MCX rose over 5% to around Rs 276, supported by US inventory data slightly below seasonal averages. Goldman Sachs warns that a month-long halt in Hormuz shipping could more than double European and Asian gas prices, though US supply impact may be limited due to export capacity constraints. Market volatility is expected as the situation evolves.