world-economy

Energy Majors Post Strong Q1 Profits as Oil Volatility Lifts Trading

Major oil and gas producers posted strong first-quarter earnings as geopolitical tensions sent crude prices higher and boosted trading operations. Shell reported adjusted net income of $6.92 billion, driven by increased volatility in energy markets and stronger trading activity. Saudi Aramco's profit jumped 26 percent in the quarter, with the company pointing to its East-West pipeline as critical infrastructure that helped offset supply disruptions. The Iran war triggered energy price spikes early in the year, strengthening profit margins for integrated energy firms with significant trading divisions. Production declines from the conflict were offset by favorable price movements and elevated trading volumes. Energy sector stocks benefited from the rally, though downstream impacts on economies dependent on stable fuel costs remained under review.