Goldman Sachs(US:GS) Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-06-23 08:52Core Viewpoint - The escalation of geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran could significantly impact international oil prices, potentially driving them to a range of $120-150 per barrel in extreme scenarios [1][8]. Group 1: Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Prices - Goldman Sachs' commodity research team has reassessed risk scenarios due to Iran's threats to block the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that current oil prices include a geopolitical risk premium of about $10 per barrel [2]. - The market is preparing for a significant increase in oil prices over the coming months, although long-term expectations remain largely unchanged [2][3]. - In the event of a supply disruption, Brent crude oil prices could peak slightly above $90 per barrel, depending on the recovery of Iranian supply and OPEC+ production adjustments [2]. Group 2: Potential Disruption Scenarios - Four potential conflict escalation scenarios have been constructed by Goldman Sachs, with varying impacts on oil prices [4]. - In the baseline scenario, if geopolitical tensions persist without significant supply disruptions, Brent crude is expected to maintain a risk premium of $5-7, trading around $72 per barrel [5]. - If Israel attacks Iranian oil-related assets, oil prices could rise to the $80-90 per barrel range due to expected Iranian retaliation [6]. - In a scenario where Iran retaliates against regional assets, oil prices could clearly rise towards $100 per barrel [8]. - The most severe scenario involves Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz, affecting 15-17 million barrels of oil supply daily, which could push prices to the $120-150 range [8]. Group 3: Market Reactions and Implications - The geopolitical tensions have led to a strengthening of the U.S. dollar, impacting currencies like the Australian and Canadian dollars [10]. - A rapid increase in oil prices to $100 could negatively impact risk assets, with the S&P 500 potentially facing a decline of 200-300 points, particularly affecting AI-related stocks due to high concentration [10]. - The response in interest rate markets is complex, with potential inflation concerns from rising oil prices, but the Federal Reserve may overlook temporary price changes [10].