In 2022, Jake Clay started an Amazon delivery firm in Odessa, Texas, after hearing about the company-sponsored program from a friend. He sank $75,000 into the business and earned more than $200,000 in the first year. An Air Force veteran, Clay, 50, felt like he’d joined an elite unit.The feeling didn’t last. Before long, rising insurance and other costs began eating into his profit. One of Clay’s drivers was badly bitten by a dog and went on workers compensation for a year, while his annual vehicle insuranc ...

Core Insights - U.S. gas prices are expected to rise this week, with a 73% probability that average retail prices will exceed $3.135 per gallon on October 6, according to traders on Kalshi [1][2][3] Group 1: Factors Influencing Gas Prices - The anticipated increase in gas prices is driven by a tightening global oil supply, which limits crude feedstock for gasoline production [2][3] - Geopolitical risks in energy-producing regions are contributing to market volatility and concerns [3] - Seasonal demand pressures are also influencing the market, with expectations of a potential spike in fuel costs [3] Group 2: Impact on the Stock Market - Higher gas prices negatively affect sectors with high fuel dependency, such as transportation, airlines, and logistics, due to increased operating costs and squeezed profit margins [4] - The energy sector benefits from higher commodity prices, leading to appreciation in stock values for oil and gas producers [4] - Rising gas prices act as a tax on consumers, reducing discretionary income and potentially dampening sales in retail and consumer discretionary sectors, which may increase inflationary pressure and create uncertainty in the market [5] Group 3: Long-term Outlook - The market is preparing for a potential oil supply glut that could reverse the current trend of rising gas prices [6]

Interest Rate Outlook - Mexico is forecast to cut interest rates to a three-year low [1] Economic Factors - Weak economic activity curbs inflationary pressure [1]