Gulf Intelligence Podcasts

Today’s Daily Energy Markets Podcast exposed how the Hormuz crisis is accelerating a global scramble for energy security, supply diversification, and geopolitical leverage. Sara Akbar warned Gulf states would never accept Iran becoming the “gatekeeper” of the Strait of Hormuz, arguing the region may prefer renewed conflict over surrendering energy security. James McCallum said the world is entering a “less deferential” era of energy politics, while Anne-Sophie Corbeau revealed China has imported zero US LNG cargoes since February despite the escalating crisis.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 4 – Part BIn Part B of The AI Arabia Dialogues Podcast Series, industry leaders and technology experts continue the conversation on how nations can accelerate AI adoption through scalable infrastructure, compute capacity, and cross-sector collaboration.The discussion explores the growing demand for AI-ready energy systems, sovereign AI strategies, investment in digital infrastructure, and the role of innovation ecosystems in supporting long-term economic transformation. Speakers also examine how governments, enterprises, and technology providers can work together to ensure AI deployment is sustainable, secure, and commercially impactful.Featured Speakers:Zainab Al Amin, Vice President of National Digital Transformation, Microsoft Saudi ArabiaOmar AlSheikh, Country Head & Senior Director, KSA & Bahrain - Energy, Services & Government, InfosysSultan Moraished, Group Head of Technology & Corporate Excellence, Red Sea GlobalJames McCallum, Executive Chairman of Xergy & Professor of Energy, Strathclyde UniversityDr. Ahmed Alfadhel, Executive Director of Innovation & Technology Commercialization, Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV)Robin Mills, Chief Executive, Qamar EnergyWatch Part A for additional insights from the discussion series.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 4 – Part ATheme: How Can National AI Infrastructure and Compute Capacity Enable Scalable Adoption Across Key Sectors?In this episode of the Arabia Dialogues Podcast Series, leading experts from across industry, energy, technology, and digital transformation come together to explore how nations can build the AI infrastructure, compute capacity, and innovation ecosystems required to accelerate scalable AI adoption.From sovereign AI capabilities and cloud infrastructure to energy demand, public-private collaboration, and workforce readiness, our speakers share practical insights and strategic perspectives on how countries can position themselves for long-term AI-driven growth and competitiveness.Featured Speakers:Zainab Al Amin, Vice President of National Digital Transformation, Microsoft Saudi ArabiaOmar AlSheikh, Country Head & Senior Director, KSA & Bahrain - Energy, Services & Government, InfosysSultan Moraished, Group Head of Technology & Corporate Excellence, Red Sea GlobalJames McCallum, Executive Chairman of Xergy & Professor of Energy, Strathclyde UniversityDr. Ahmed Alfadhel, Executive Director of Innovation & Technology Commercialization, Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV)Robin Mills, Chief Executive, Qamar EnergyStay tuned for more insights as we continue the conversation in Part B.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets Podcast examined why oil markets remain deceptively calm despite mounting geopolitical and supply chain risks. Adi Imsirovic warned inventories are nearing critical lows, Maleeha Bengali highlighted Pakistan’s worsening energy shortages and geopolitical balancing act, while Clyde Russell cautioned China’s sulfur and battery supply chains could become the next major pressure point in the global crisis.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets Podcast unpacked rising geopolitical and energy market stress as Brent climbed above $105. Omar Najia warned Trump is “checkmated” on Iran, Raad Alkadiri said Tehran seeks security guarantees over symbolism, Russell Robertson highlighted Asia’s race for supply resilience, while Alan Gelder cautioned Europe’s fuel inventories remain deceptively fragile despite calm markets.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast unpacked the fragile Iran-US diplomacy keeping Brent above $100 and the outlook for Trump-Xi Jinping Summit. Ali Al-Riyami warned GCC divisions and Strait of Hormuz tensions will outlast any short-term deal, Amena Bakr focused on OPEC+ cohesion and the UAE’s gradual production strategy, Marc Oswald highlighted China’s growing leverage and “just in case” energy security, while Zoe Upson underscored the mounting pressure on shipping markets and stranded seafarers.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 3 – Part BIn Part B of the Arabia Dialogues Podcast Series, our expert panel continues the conversation on how nations can effectively develop and scale the talent needed to thrive in an AI-driven future.Building on the insights from Part A, this session dives deeper into actionable strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and the role of leadership in shaping resilient and future-ready workforces.Featured Speakers:Amit Sreedharan, AVP & Business Head (MEA – Energy, Services & Government), InfosysChiara Marcati, Chief Advisory & Business Officer, AI71Robin Machado, Head of Digital R&D MEA, Siemens Energy & ADYBC Board MemberHala Al Hashmi, IT Manager, Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC)If you haven’t watched Part A yet, be sure to check it out for the full context of the discussion.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast, guest hosted by Mukesh Sahdev, examines why oil markets are pricing a longer geopolitical standoff. Ramin Lakani warns uncontrolled IRGC actions could turn Hormuz “more off than on,” Nadia Martin Wiggen flags severe gasoline blending shortages and collapsing OECD inventories ahead of summer, while Victor Yang says China is unlikely to bow to escalating U.S. sanctions pressure anytime soon.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast, guest hosted by Paul Hickin, opens with overnight escalation as Iran targeted UAE tankers and energy assets, threatening the fragile ceasefire and jolting oil markets. June Goh highlights tightening supply from Hormuz disruptions, Narendra Taneja warns of potential conflict escalation, Omar Al-Ubaydli sees cautious negotiation progress, while Charles Ellinas underscores Iran’s assertiveness and growing geopolitical deadlock shaping market uncertainty.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 3 – Part ATheme: How Can Nations Build the Talent and Skills Required to Sustain AI-Driven Economies?In this episode of the Arabia Dialogues Podcast Series, leading experts from across industry and technology come together to explore one of the most critical challenges of our time—developing the talent and skills needed to power AI-driven economies.From workforce transformation and education to public-private collaboration, our speakers share practical insights and real-world perspectives on how nations can future-proof their talent pipelines in the age of AI.Featured Speakers:Amit Sreedharan, AVP & Business Head (MEA – Energy, Services & Government), InfosysChiara Marcati, Chief Advisory & Business Officer, AI71Robin Machado, Head of Digital R&D MEA, Siemens Energy & ADYBC Board MemberHala Al Hashmi, IT Manager, Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC)Stay tuned for more insights as we continue the conversation in Part B.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast guest host Frank Kane led a discussion where Omar Najia warned oil is bearish amid diplomacy and demand destruction. Michelle Bockmann questioned “Project Freedom” and shipping safety. Brian Pieri highlighted rising US consumer pressures. Robin Mills cautioned an imminent supply crunch, followed by inventory rebuilds that could later push prices lower.

Today's podcast explores surging oil prices driven by prolonged geopolitical tensions. Carole Nakhle highlights market volatility and OPEC dynamics, Yuriy Humber examines Japan’s energy security and supply diversification, and Walter Simpson outlines the operational risks of shutting and restarting oil fields, emphasizing uncertainty, investment challenges, and the likelihood of lasting structural shifts in global energy markets.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 2 – Part BWhat does it really take to scale AI from strategy to sustained enterprise impact?In Part B of our second episode, industry leaders dive deeper into the practical realities of deployment—exploring governance, infrastructure, and the organizational shifts required to unlock AI at scale across resource-rich economies.🎙️ Featured Speakers:Anil Kumar P N, SVP – Service Offering Head, InfosysDr Chris Cooper, Board Director & Advisor, AI & Technology CompaniesDr Satyam Priyadarshy, Founder & CEO, Reignite Future, USADr Morgan Eldred, Founder, Digital EnergyBuilding on Part A, this conversation brings sharper focus to execution—highlighting how enterprises can move from ambition to measurable outcomes in their AI journey.#AI #AIArabia #DigitalTransformation #EnterpriseAI #Innovation #Leadership

Today’s podcast examined UAE’s exit from OPEC amid a Hormuz crisis. Jamie Ingram highlighted weakened OPEC cohesion but limited near-term impact. Laurie Haytayan stressed geopolitical rifts and Iran tensions shaping the timing. Rahul Kapoor warned prolonged Hormuz disruption is crippling shipping flows and could drive higher prices despite temporary market resilience in global energy markets.

The podcast discusses surging oil prices above $110 driven by Gulf supply disruptions and geopolitical stalemate. Neil Atkinson highlights prolonged market tightness and recession risks. Pamela Munger analyzes shipping flows, Iranian exports, and logistical constraints. Jorge Montepeque examines Asian dynamics, China’s resilience, and sanction impacts, concluding shortages persist despite leakages, with prolonged disruption likely and limited policy relief ahead globally.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 2 – Part AHow can AI innovation ecosystems move beyond experimentation and scale into real enterprise deployment?In Part A of our second episode, senior leaders from across technology, energy, and finance explore the critical shift from innovation to implementation—and what it takes to make AI work at scale in complex, resource-rich economies.🎙️ Featured Speakers:Anil Kumar P N, SVP – Service Offering Head, InfosysDr Chris Cooper, Board Director & Advisor, AI & Technology CompaniesDr Satyam Priyadarshy, Founder & CEO, Reignite Future, USADr Morgan Eldred, Founder, Digital EnergyThis discussion sets the stage for deeper insights in Part B, as the series continues to unpack the future of AI across the Middle East and beyond.#AI #AIArabia #DigitalTransformation #EnterpriseAI #Innovation #Leadership

This Monday morning, Omar Najia warned oil and equities face downside as tensions and recession risks mount, urging cash over risk assets. Marc Howson highlighted tightening LNG supply and rising Asian prices driving demand destruction. Rachel Ziemba stressed US resilience and inflation pressures. Paul Hickin underscored unprecedented uncertainty, prices, and timing risks between supply shocks and demand collapse.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast featured Vibhuti Garg, Iman Nasseri, Arne Lohmann Rasmussen, and Giacomo Prandelli discussing the Strait of Hormuz crisis and its global energy impact. Vibhuti highlighted India’s supply vulnerability, Iman assessed Gulf disruptions and storage dynamics, Arne outlined Europe’s limited response, while Giacomo explored geopolitical tensions, shipping risks, and market uncertainty.

Trump’s indefinite ceasefire masks unresolved tensions, with Bill Spindle expecting a JCPOA-style framework but warning conflict could resume. Rustin Edwards highlights soaring freight costs squeezing refining margins. Bora Bariman sees prolonged economic fallout and geopolitical fragmentation. Daejin Lee stresses constrained shipping capacity and risks to energy and food supply chains if disruptions persist.

🚀 AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues - Roundtable Podcast 1 | Part BWhat will it take to turn AI ambition into real economic value?In Part B of our discussion, leaders across technology, energy, and finance go deeper into the challenges and opportunities shaping AI-driven diversification—from scaling adoption to aligning investment, talent, and policy. As the Gulf accelerates its transition, the focus is shifting from strategy to execution.🎙️ Featured Speakers:Zainab Al Amin, Vice President of National Digital Transformation, Microsoft Saudi ArabiaJoseph Alenchery, SVP & Business Head (Energy Next), InfosysRichard Frey, Chief Executive Officer, INAITToby Iles, Chief Economist, Jadwa InvestmentBashar Al-Natoor, Managing Director & Global Head of Islamic Finance, Fitch Ratings

Oil hovered in the mid-$90s amid geopolitical tensions, with Osama Rizvi highlighting fragile mediation efforts and limited prospects for lasting peace. Kate Dourian warned of tightening physical markets and rising supply risks, while Mehmet Öğütçü outlined complex negotiation hurdles. Jose Chalhoub emphasized Venezuela’s shifting oil dynamics under U.S. influence, with market direction hinging on prolonged conflict and uncertain diplomacy.

AI Arabia Center of Excellence Dialogues | Roundtable Podcast 1 "Part A"How Can AI Accelerate Economic Diversification in Resource-Rich Economies? In this first episode of the AI Arabia Center of Excellence – Arabia Dialogues Podcast Series, senior leaders from across technology, energy, and finance come together to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping economic diversification strategies across resource-rich economies.🎙️ Featured Speakers:Zainab Al Amin, Vice President of National Digital Transformation, Microsoft Saudi ArabiaJoseph Alenchery, SVP & Business Head (Energy Next), InfosysRichard Frey, Chief Executive Officer, INAITToby Iles, Chief Economist, Jadwa InvestmentBashar Al-Natoor, Managing Director & Global Head of Islamic Finance, Fitch RatingsThis conversation sets the tone for a wider series exploring the future of AI across the Middle East and beyond.

Oil surged above $95, but Omar Najia called volatility “noise,” expecting lower prices. Michal Meidan stressed China’s buffers yet deep exposure to disruptions, while Yan Chong Yaw highlighted Asia’s divide between stockpiled “haves” and vulnerable importers. All warned supply strains persist, with outcomes hinging on conflict duration and a negotiated, not military, resolution.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined oil market dislocation, geopolitical risk, and pricing uncertainty. Ron Bousso highlighted investor optimism and market disconnects, Anoop Singh detailed stalled shipping flows and high transit costs, Jamal Qureshi assessed delayed supply impacts and SPR cushioning, and James Lear explained futures market breakdown and recovery in liquidity and price convergence.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast highlighted oil’s volatility near $95 amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Mike McGlone warned prices may fall on demand destruction, while David Fyfe stressed severe supply outages. Jolyon Welsh said the U.S. and Iran both need a deal despite deep mistrust, while Peter McGuire noted resilient Asian markets masking strain.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined the fragile Iran-US ceasefire, Hormuz blockades, and oil market uncertainty. Mukesh Sahdev framed the blockade as strategic leverage to pressure Iran and China, Liao Na questioned its effectiveness citing strong Chinese buffers, and Yesar Al-Maleki highlighted escalation risks, market tightness, and challenges in Gulf oil production recovery.

Sean Evers, Founder & Managing Partner of Gulf Intelligence, joins Business Breakfast to break down the recent swings in oil prices, the impact of geopolitical tensions, and what the Strait of Hormuz developments mean for global energy markets and businesses.

Today’s podcast focused on the failed weekend US-Iran talks and ensuing Hormuz escalation, with the US announcing a blockade of Iranian ports, driving oil back above $100. Omar Najia argued this pressure forces a deal. Gisele Widdershoven highlighted severe shipping disruption. David Wech warned of escalation risks, while Choeib Boutamine stressed massive supply losses and market fragility.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined fragile ceasefire dynamics, disrupted oil flows, and market volatility ahead of US-Iran talks. Raad Alkadiri assessed competing US-Iran and Israeli objectives, Michelle Wiese Bockmann detailed halted shipping and insurance constraints in Hormuz, Colby Connelly explored Gulf state concerns and uneven supply recovery, and Nadia Martin Wiggen highlighted market dislocation, rising freight costs, and cautious investor positioning.

A surprise Iran-US ceasefire triggered sharp market selloffs, but Marc Ostwald warned uncertainty and structural disruptions persist. Anne-Sophie Corbeau highlighted limited LNG exposure yet affordability concerns and demand shifts. Clyde Russell stressed ongoing physical supply tightness in Asia. Toby Copson emphasized fragile sentiment, unchanged fundamentals, and continued volatility despite headline-driven price relief.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined escalating Gulf tensions, oil market panic, and geopolitical uncertainty. Sara Akbar highlighted regional damage and urgency for de-escalation, Narendra Taneja assessed U.S. pressure and war risks, Adi Imsirovic explained distorted pricing and physical supply stress, and Victor Yang outlined China’s demand slowdown and resilience amid rising energy prices.

Markets opened cautiously after a volatile weekend, with Brent and WTI trading sideways following an initial spike on geopolitical headlines. Omar Najia warned volatility, weak conviction and risks of economic collapse if escalation continues. Ali Al-Riyami stressed maritime law and security in Oman-Iran talks. Andy Laven sees upward bias absent ceasefire. Brian Pieri highlighted supply dislocation and a short-term crisis, contrasted with a weaker longer-term demand outlook.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined oil price volatility, geopolitical uncertainty, and supply disruptions. Omar Al-Ubaydli downplayed escalation risks, Mita Chaturvedi highlighted weakening liquidity and trader caution, Ram Narayanan stressed severe energy shortages across Asia, and Andrei Covatariu emphasized a shift toward physical market fundamentals, with consensus that prolonged disruptions will sustain elevated prices and ongoing instability.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast examined tightening oil spreads, geopolitical uncertainty, and macroeconomic strain. June Goh highlighted WTI’s strengthening and normalized Brent spread, Robin Mills assessed Strait of Hormuz risks and Gulf recovery timelines, Maleeha Bengali warned of recession risks from $100 oil, and Dinita Setyawati outlined Asia’s demand shocks, rationing, and accelerating shift toward coal and renewables.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast featured Osama Rizvi, Laury Haytayan, and Neil Atkinson discussing the credibility of ongoing geopolitical negotiations and their impact on global energy markets. Osama highlighted Pakistan’s mediation role and regional stakes, Laury questioned the substance of talks amid escalating conflict, while Neil emphasized severe supply disruptions, market disconnects, and the risk of prolonged economic fallout from constrained oil flows.

Markets are struggling to price an unprecedented supply shock amid escalating geopolitical risk, with Brent above $115 despite supply disruptions. Omar Najia warned price signals are distorted and risks skewing the global economy. Zoe Upson highlighted shipping strain and seafarer stress. Jamie Ingram said real shortages are emerging, with demand destruction likely driven by policy, costs, and prolonged disruptions.

Oil markets are pricing uncertainty, not resolution. Yuriy Humber (Japan NRG Platform), Arne Lohmann Rasmussen (Global Risk Management), Iman Nasseri (FGE NexantECA), and Bill Spindle (Energy Analyst) assess whether “talks” are real or just delay, as Hormuz control tightens and LNG markets flip from surplus to scarcity. The panel warns of a world without Hormuz, with demand destruction only kicking in at $250–$300 oil, while Asia feels the pain before the West. Listen in for a clear-eyed take on where this crisis heads next.

Today’s podcast said Brent near $100 reflects confusion, not calm: Ramin Lakani stressed contradictory diplomacy and enduring IRGC risk; Kate Dourian warned Gulf disruption, damaged refining and LNG flows will outlast any ceasefire; and Mukesh Sahdev argued crude bypasses work better than product markets, making diesel and jet shortages the real threat.

Markets grapple with extreme volatility as ongoing geopolitical shifts, supply disruptions, and policy reversals reshape oil flows. Anoop Singh highlights Asia’s acute tanker shortages and looming demand destruction; Michelle Wiese Bockmann explains unsanctioned Russian and Iranian barrels boosting revenues; Alan Gelder underscores tightening supply, surging refining stress, and prolonged recovery risks despite temporary political interventions.

Resuming after Eid, the Daily Energy Markets podcast frames a fragile oil market detached from war headlines. Omar Najia argues intervention and liquidity distort prices despite escalation risks. Rachel Ziemba highlights demand destruction, policy constraints, and supply chain stress. Henning Gloystein underscores Asia’s energy crunch, LNG disruption, and longer-term security shifts, with markets pricing higher volatility ahead still.

This end of the week edition of the Daily Energy Markets Podcast reviews the second week of the U.S.–Israel war with Iran as oil stabilises near $100 after extreme volatility. Mike McGlone warns the energy shock could trigger recession; Peter McGuire highlights Asian market vulnerability and trading volatility; Carole Nakhle assesses geopolitical risks; and David Elward tracks soaring physical oil and jet fuel prices.

The Daily Energy Markets Podcast examines oil near $100 after a 400-million-barrel SPR release, and analysts say Strait of Hormuz risks could keep crude anchored at or above $100. Gaurav Sharma says delayed supply and Hormuz tensions keep markets volatile; Choeib Boutamine warns disruptions and limited spare capacity could push prices higher despite OPEC; and Charles Ellinas highlights LNG shortages pressuring Europe.

The discussion today focused on the escalating energy market disruption from the Strait of Hormuz crisis and whether markets have already priced in a potential G7 strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) release. Nadia Martin-Wiggen highlighted volatility and financial market positioning; Clyde Russell warned of a looming Asian supply crisis; Pamela Munger detailed tanker dislocation and rerouting; and Ali Al-Riyami stressed regional resilience but warned the conflict could persist.

Today’s podcast explored whether the crisis oil price peak is already behind us. Toby Copson argued the real stress is emerging in products and LNG rather than crude. Mehmet Öğütçü warned markets may increasingly discount erratic political messaging and highlighted Russia as a likely economic winner. Marc Ostwald cautioned that supply-chain disruptions could prolong inflation even after fighting ends.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast featured Omar Najia, Jorge Montepeque, Narendra Taneja, and Omar Al-Ubaydli discussing the Iran-driven oil crisis. Najia warned markets are irrational and a deal is ultimately inevitable; Montepeque stressed SPR releases are mostly symbolic amid tight physical supply; Taneja highlighted India’s mediation efforts; and Al-Ubaydli underscored insurance and security barriers keeping Hormuz effectively closed.

Considering the deep economic implications of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to the energy markets, and the global economy, can this situation be resolved even before US-Israel war on Iran ends? Guest speakers Raad Alkadiri warned of prolonged regional instability; Osama Rizvi highlighted Pakistan’s economic and sectarian vulnerabilities; Bora Bariman assessed Turkey and Europe’s constrained responses; and Marc Howson outlined surging LNG prices and tightening Asian gas markets.

The Daily Energy Markets Podcast examined the recent developments in China, following its decision to close the taps for its refined products exports, amidst escalating Middle East tensions and increasing risk to global energy flows. Vandana Hari warned China’s halt to fuel exports reflects governments prioritising domestic supply security. Robin Mills highlighted shipping dangers and insurance hurdles in the Gulf, while Jamal Qureshi and Giacomo Prandelli argued markets may still be underpricing potential disruptions to oil and LNG trade.

The Daily Energy Markets Podcast asked whether Trump’s pledge to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is a game changer for oil markets. Guest speakers Maleeha Bengali said supply isn’t lost, only delayed; Brian Pieri noted muted U.S. market reaction but rising inflation risks; and Liao Na highlighted China’s vast inventories and strategic buffers, suggesting Beijing can weather disruptions.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast featured Sara Akbar, Ahmed Mehdi, and Laury Haytayan discussing the escalating US–Iran conflict and its impact on oil and gas markets. Sara outlined Kuwait’s security challenges, production shut-in readiness, and water vulnerability; Ahmed analyzed freight spikes, supply disruptions, and Iraq’s export constraints; while Laury assessed Hezbollah’s involvement and Europe’s growing exposure to a potential gas crisis.

Today’s Daily Energy Markets podcast featured Omar Najia, Adi Imsirovic, and Russell Robertson discussing escalating Middle East conflict and its impact on oil and LNG markets. Omar warned of prolonged war and sharply higher prices; Adi highlighted strategic reserves and supply buffers tempering panic; while Russell assessed Asian demand, China’s inventories, and rising volatility risks