Iran's Supreme Leader said resolving all problems hinges on further reliance on domestic production. He said ensuring adequate supplies of public and private goods is essential, and where domestic production is insufficient, imports should be used correctly and prudently.

HFI Research says it has repeatedly flagged a "golden opportunity" in Colombia and Venezuela since early 2026. At the start of the year the unexpected arrest of former Venezuelan president Maduro surprised markets. More recently, President Trump announced the US has reached an agreement with Venezuela on certain oil production blocks; details have not been released, but recent reports indicate major players are poised to reclaim sizable blocks, with Chevron the likely first candidate. In Colombia the new president, sworn in on Aug. 7, has moved rapidly to restructure state oil company Ecopetrol: the finance ministry has called an extraordinary shareholders meeting for Sept. 15 to amend the articles of association so the president can nominate six additional board members and effectively control the board. The ministry said the government will submit a nine‑person slate mandated to raise output, restore trust and push an energy transition. Delivering those objectives will require external capital to lift mature‑field production, unlock new reserves and improve efficiency, opening an entry point for independent producers. Geopolitically, HFI says Colombia and Venezuela remain among the most undervalued energy opportunities.

Aug 28 — Iran’s supreme leader Mujtaba Khamenei praised the government’s response amid what he described as escalating US and Israeli restrictions, conspiracies, sanctions and a siege. He said Iran must demonstrate strength and warned that any remarks or actions that demoralize the public or weaken national spirit are prohibited, calling for preservation of social cohesion.