August 3, 2026
Diesel price drives consumer costs, but war with Iran has not caused the predicted economy-gutting hikes
‘Financial Issues’ host: ‘Energy prices have remained far more manageable than many experts predicted’
PHILADELPHIA — While gasoline prices have been at the top of many Americans’ financial pressures, diesel fuel powers the vehicles, farms and heavy equipment that keep the nation’s economy moving. According to a recent FOX Business article, “As [diesel] prices rise, businesses face higher transportation costs that economists say often ripple through the economy, pushing up the cost of everyday goods.” The recent diesel surge unveils how global tensions can rapidly filter into the broader economy; even if the Middle East conflicts ease, diesel prices may not immediately return to pre-conflict levels.
“This article restates a risk markets have been discussing for months while overlooking the more important story: energy prices have remained far more manageable than many experts predicted,” said “Financial Issues” (FISM) host Mark Minnella. “When the war in Iran began, some analysts warned crude oil could reach $150 to $200 a barrel, yet Brent peaked near $126 and recently traded around $89, below its average during the 2022 Russia-Ukraine energy shock and far below its 2008 record. Diesel is relatively expensive at roughly $5.31 a gallon, but it remains below the $5.81 peak reached in June 2022.
“Of course, fuel prices affect the inflation number, but American production, emergency reserves, weaker overseas demand and alternative shipping routes have tempered the geopolitical disruption. The real headline is that the energy catastrophe that the politically motivated fear-mongering mainstream news promoted has not occurred.”
Financial Issues’ (FISM) unique programming helps Christians find freedom and purpose in financial stewardship, empowering them to make biblically faithful choices in a world filled with competing voices. By tuning in, viewers and listeners will discover how to navigate their financial journey with clarity, integrity and a Kingdom-minded perspective.
Mark Minnella is the host of“Financial Issues,” which is broadcast live Monday through Friday at 9 – 10 a.m. ET/8 – 9 a.m. CT, on more than 500 television and radio outlets nationwide, streaming on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and other major platforms, as well as online at FinancialIssues.org.
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To schedule interviews with Mark Minnella, contact Hamilton Strategies, Media@HamiltonStrategies.com, Beth Bogucki, 610.584.1096 ext. 105, or Richard Jefferson, rjefferson@hamiltonstrategies.com.
