Posts by Mark Rachal

What happens when petchems shy away from propane? Posted on 23 Oct 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

With winter approaching, the most recent data shows petrochemical companies shying away from propane as a feedstock. Read more»

Traders’ position conflicts with Midwest price movement Posted on 16 Oct 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

As winter approaches, the Midwest, like the rest of the nation, has propane inventory levels that are below the five-year average and well below last year's. Read more»

Examining a tough three weeks for propane inventory Posted on 09 Oct 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

It has been a tough three weeks for propane inventories, as the typical period of inventory build nears its end. Read more»

A look at propane’s current value relative to WTI crude Posted on 05 Oct 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

WTI crude is an important metric because it gives propane retailers a way to evaluate the value of the product they sell. The comparison provides needed guidance when managing the price risks associated with propane supply. Read more»

Extreme events put inventory in unusual situations Posted on 25 Sep 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

Propane prices increased after the Energy Information Administration reported U.S. propane inventory fell 1.377 million barrels for the week ending Sept. 15. Read more»

What to expect from changes in the crude price curve Posted on 18 Sep 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries projects demand for its crude will average 32.83 million barrels per day in 2018. Read more»

What’s causing a big jump in propane inventory? Posted on 11 Sep 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

For the week ending Sept. 1, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a 6.346-million-barrel build in U.S. propane inventory. Read more»

What propane’s value history tells us about the market today Posted on 05 Sep 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

Propane’s relative value to West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, the U.S. benchmark crude, continues to rise. Read more»

Hurricane Harvey’s potential impact on Texas Gulf Coast Posted on 25 Aug 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

All eyes are on Hurricane Harvey, which is bearing down on the Texas Gulf Coast. Read more»

Crude inventory drawdown’s relation to crude production Posted on 21 Aug 2017 in the Blue Flame Blog categories.

Crude prices have been volatile throughout the August downtrend. They moved higher from mid-June through July, but dropped from $50.17 to below $47 in August. Read more»