Welcome to the Fuel Matters Blog

The first quarter of 2020 has absolutely rocked global oil markets due to COVID-19, an OPEC+ supply and price dispute as well as a global economic recession.  What happens next is still unknown, but with global storage on the brink of filling up and demand destruction nearing 20 million bpd, the global oil industry will almost certainly change forever.  IOCs (International Oil Companies) and smaller independents face particularly daunting challenges, while NOCs (National Oil Companies) look to capture more market share while putting their competition out of business.

Yesterday afternoon the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine made a new discovery in the fight against the COVID-19 virus with a possible vaccination they hope can be rolled out sometime this year.

There are many people we should thank for being true heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic, but one profession that is often overlooked are the nation’s truck drivers. They risk their lives every single day to deliver medical supplies, dried goods, food and beverages and other vital supplies that are needed during this crisis. Like almost everyone else, every day activities are also very different for them.

In the face of a global pandemic, millions of consumers are turning to alternative methods for receiving groceries and other products. As over 75% of Americans are under shelter-in-place orders, services such as Instacart, Amazon and Whole Foods have been essential resources as we adhere to social distancing.  On Monday, workers at these companies expressed actions they are taking this week which include conducted walkouts, strikes and sickouts to demand hazard pay and other safety protections that are not currently afforded to them. 

Are you slouched into your most comfortable couch? Using the chair from that 1970’s dining room set? Yes, the one with the plastic still on the seats.  Lying in bed while trying to prop your head with a pillow? I’m sure these are just some of the various settings many of us are attempting while working from home these days.  COVID-19 has eliminated the need to get up and visit a co-worker’s office for the answer to a question, to take a brisk walk when late for a meeting, or to get some exercise and fresh air during lunch or another break in the day.  A lot of our daily movement has been eliminated.  It is still important to stretch your joints and muscles throughout the day to prevent various cramps, aches, and pains.  Below are a few easy stretches you can easily do from the comfort of your own home.  The only equipment you’ll need is a wall or a chair.