Energy:
1. OPEC+ representative: OPEC+ expects to maintain stable production levels for 2026 after September.
2. Following India's opening of its nuclear energy market, Tata Power plans to complete its first nuclear power plant by 2032.
3. Iranian government spokesperson: Due to the war with the United States, Iran has lost approximately 230 million cubic meters of natural gas production capacity.
4. Market research and intelligence firm IIR report: Saudi Aramco shut down its 400,000 barrels per day refinery in Jizan after the July 25 attack, and expects to complete repairs and restart the refinery by August 15.
Agriculture/Mining:
1. Reuters survey: Analysts lowered their gold price forecasts for the first time since the end of 2023, but expect central bank buying to ease the decline.
2. Reuters survey: Silver prices are expected to average $72 per ounce in 2026 and $71 per ounce in 2027.
3. Commerzbank: Lowered its year-end gold price forecast to $4,500 per ounce (previously $4,800).
4. Commerzbank: Expects silver prices to reach $67 per ounce by the end of the year (previously $80), and $80 per ounce by the end of 2027 (previously $90).
5. Major iron ore producing states in India are undergoing tax reforms, potentially dragging down exports of low-grade ore.
Iranian Situation:
1. Houthi rebels threaten to disrupt Red Sea trade, causing oil tankers to divert to Egypt.
2. Iran launched missiles at US military bases for the first time since the ceasefire last Friday.
3. Oman proposed a Strait of Hormuz management plan to Iran: joint regional management with voluntary funding from users.
4. A senior Iranian official stated that Tehran has rejected Oman's proposed joint management plan for the Strait of Hormuz, deeming it unsuccessful.
5. The number of ships passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has increased to the highest level since July 19, while the number of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz remains low.
