The price of oil has fallen back to levels not seen since before the Iran war, handing hard-pressed UK businesses the prospect of cheaper fuel as traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping lane gradually resumes.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, briefly dipped below $72.48 (£55) a barrel, the level it sat at the day before the United States and Israel launched their attacks on Iran on 28 February, before edging back up to $73.23.

Energy markets have endured a torrid few months since Tehran retaliated by effectively closing the strait, a waterway that carries a substantial share of the world’s seaborne oil and gas. For the haulage, hospitality and agricultural firms that have watched their fuel bills balloon since the spring, the retreat in crude cannot come soon enough. Many smaller operators have spent the conflict simply trying to absorb costs they could not pass on, a squeeze Business Matters has tracked among hauliers, hotels and farms pushed into survival mode.

Crude has been falling steadily since 17 June, when Washington and Tehran signed a Memorandum of Understanding setting out a 60-day window for negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and other measures aimed at ending the war. Representatives from both sides met in Switzerland last weekend, talks that led the United States to partially lift sanctions on Iranian oil exports.

The number of vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz has risen sharply since the agreement was struck, according to maritime intelligence firm Kpler. Its latest figures suggest 284 vessels made the transit from 18 June, the day after the deal was signed, although that remains well below the pre-conflict average of around 138 crossings a day. The ships passing through in recent days have included those carrying crude oil, liquefied natural gas, fertiliser and other goods, Kpler told the BBC.

The United States and Iran have also established a “communication line” to prevent misunderstandings “with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz”, mediators Qatar and Pakistan said in a joint statement on Monday.

Dimitris Maniatis, chief executive of maritime risk advisory firm Marisks, which is working with ships stranded in the region, described a “tremendous shift”, with far more vessels using the strait in recent days. A limited number of ships can cross a northern passageway with the permission of Iranian authorities, he said, while the US navy has set out a southern route cleared of mines and other obstacles laid during the war. Even so, traffic remains below the pre-war norm, when more than 100 ships a day used the route.

For drivers and the firms that run vans and lorries, attention has now turned to how quickly the fall in crude feeds through to the forecourt.

“On the back of the lowest oil price since before the Iran war started, drivers should see the average price of petrol fall below 150p [a litre] in the next week or so,” said Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC. He added that diesel “ought to go back under 160p”. Petrol peaked at 159.53p a litre on 28 May, according to the motoring group, while diesel has eased from a high of 191.54p on 15 April. Drivers can track the daily averages through the RAC’s Fuel Watch data, and the longer-term trend is laid out in the House of Commons Library’s briefing on petrol and diesel prices.

In the United States, the average price of regular petrol has slipped to around $3.93 a gallon after touching $4 in April, its highest since 2022, though it remains well above pre-war levels.

The pace of those falls has become political. President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered an investigation into the major energy companies, accusing Shell, ExxonMobil and others of “gouging” drivers by failing to cut pump prices even as crude costs tumbled. “Oil prices have come down so much and we are not seeing anything at the pump by comparison the way they should be,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. The American Petroleum Institute, which represents the US oil and gas industry, countered that fuel prices “don’t move in lockstep with crude oil”.

British energy firms have faced similar accusations of unfairly inflating petrol prices since the war began. Last month, however, the UK competition watchdog said it had found no widespread evidence of profiteering, noting that average margins were “broadly unchanged” between February and March.

For now, the direction of travel offers a measure of comfort to the millions of smaller firms for whom fuel is an unavoidable line on the balance sheet, and for whom relief has been a long time coming. Whether the easing endures will depend on whether the fragile peace holds, and on how far the broader pressure of stubbornly high energy costs on UK business continues to bite.

Jamie Young

Jamie is Senior Reporter at Business Matters, bringing over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting.
Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly participates in industry conferences and workshops.

When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

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Bio-Techne Corporation shares jumped more than 19 percent on Thursday, reaching $70.31 as investors responded to positive developments around the company’s life sciences tools and diagnostics businesses.

The significant gain reflected renewed confidence in Bio-Techne’s position within the biotechnology research and clinical diagnostics markets. The company provides essential reagents, instruments and assays used by researchers and clinicians worldwide.

Bio-Techne has reported steady performance despite challenges in the broader life sciences sector, including funding pressures for academic research and cautious spending by pharmaceutical companies. Its diversified portfolio spanning protein sciences, diagnostics and genomics has provided stability.

The company’s focus on innovation, quality and customer relationships has sustained demand for its products. Recent product launches and strategic initiatives have generated interest among analysts and investors.

Business Overview and Performance

Bio-Techne operates through Protein Sciences and Diagnostics and Genomics segments. The Protein Sciences division offers antibodies, proteins, immunoassays and other research tools.

The Diagnostics and Genomics segment provides clinical laboratory products, spatial biology solutions and genomic testing services. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with any single market or customer type.

The company has maintained consistent revenue growth through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. Its global distribution network and reputation for quality support market leadership in multiple product categories.

Bio-Techne’s financial results have demonstrated resilience amid industry headwinds. Management has emphasized operational efficiency and portfolio optimization while investing in growth areas.

Market Environment

The life sciences tools and diagnostics industry faces cyclical pressures from research funding, pharmaceutical R&D spending and healthcare budgets. Bio-Techne’s essential products provide some insulation from these fluctuations.

Academic and government research funding remains crucial for many customers. Private sector investment in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development drives additional demand.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated certain segments while creating supply chain challenges. Post-pandemic normalization has required adaptation to changing demand patterns.

Technological advances in genomics, proteomics and spatial biology create opportunities for innovative product providers. Bio-Techne’s investments in these areas position it for growth.

Strategic Initiatives

Bio-Techne continues expanding its product portfolio through internal development and acquisitions. Recent moves have strengthened capabilities in high-growth areas like spatial transcriptomics and advanced immunoassays.

The company’s focus on automation and workflow solutions addresses customer needs for increased efficiency and reproducibility. These offerings appeal to both research and clinical laboratories.

Sustainability initiatives and responsible sourcing practices align with growing stakeholder expectations. Bio-Techne’s commitment to quality and ethical practices supports long-term customer relationships.

Digital transformation efforts enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Online platforms and data analytics capabilities improve accessibility and support for users.

Investment Considerations

Bio-Techne’s recent share price surge reflects positive market sentiment around its fundamentals and growth prospects. The company’s valuation has adjusted to account for its market position and pipeline.

The stock appeals to investors seeking exposure to life sciences innovation and research tools. Its diversified business model and consistent performance provide defensive characteristics.

Risks include funding pressures in academic research, competition from larger players and potential slowdowns in pharmaceutical R&D spending. Bio-Techne’s ability to innovate and maintain quality will influence long-term success.

Analysts generally maintain constructive outlooks, citing the company’s technology leadership and market opportunities. However, patience may be required as the sector navigates cyclical challenges.

Industry Trends

The life sciences tools market continues evolving with advances in single-cell analysis, spatial biology and multi-omics approaches. Companies providing enabling technologies benefit from these scientific developments.

Clinical diagnostics demand grows with aging populations and personalized medicine trends. Bio-Techne’s products support both research and clinical applications.

Automation and artificial intelligence integration transform laboratory workflows. Providers offering compatible solutions gain competitive advantages.

Sustainability considerations influence purchasing decisions across the industry. Companies demonstrating environmental responsibility may attract preference from research institutions and corporate customers.

Future Outlook

Bio-Techne’s strategic direction focuses on leveraging its technology platform while expanding into adjacent markets. Successful execution could drive sustained growth and margin improvement.

The company continues investing in research and development to maintain innovation leadership. Its ability to translate scientific advances into commercial products will influence future performance.

Investors will monitor upcoming financial results for progress on key metrics including organic growth and margin trends. Management guidance will provide insight into execution priorities.

The recent share price movement suggests renewed market interest in Bio-Techne’s story. The company’s fundamental strengths and market opportunities support potential for continued positive sentiment.

As life sciences research advances, Bio-Techne’s essential tools and technologies will likely remain in demand. Its ability to adapt to evolving customer needs while delivering consistent results positions it favorably in the industry.

The race to succeed America’s top banker is on.

Sources inside JPMorgan Chase, the nation’s top bank, say the elevation of two senior executives Doug Petno and Troy Rohrbaugh as co-presidents of the company, sets up a long-awaited horse race to succeed the voluble Jamie Dimon, its CEO for the past two-plus decades and widely regarded as the nation’s top banker.

As if to leave no doubt about his intentions, Dimon Thursday also announced that Marianne Lake, one of the highest-ranking women on Wall Street who had been seen as a frontrunner to succeed Dimon, “has decided to retire” from the bank.

Lake, a longtime executive who was head of the firm’s powerful consumer and community banking division, is said to be “not too happy” about being passed over for the top job. One indication was the absence of a statement from Lake in the press release, said people close to the bank. A JPM spokesperson had no immediate comment.

JAMIE DIMON REVEALS WHAT HE TOLD MAMDANI AFTER PRIVATE MEETING, SAYS IDEOLOGY CAN LEAD MAYORS TO FAIL

JPMorgan Chase’s new global headquarters at 270 Park Ave. in New York City. (JPMorgan Chase / Fox News)

Jenn Piepszak, JPM’s chief operating officer, is also no longer considered a possible replacement for Dimon, people inside the bank say. Also out of the running is Mary Erdoes, the head of JPM’s asset management and wealth management business, On The Money has learned.

“The changes announced today mark an important step in our board’s thoughtful process around succession planning and development of our top leaders,” Dimon said in a press release. “We are fortunate to have in place an exceptional group of senior leaders, not only at our operating committee level but across our organization.”

DOJ PROBES JPMORGAN, CITIGROUP TRANSACTIONS TIED TO IRAN SUPREME LEADER’S BUSINESS NETWORK

Jamie Dimon, chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., during the 2026 Reagan National Economic Forum on Friday, May 29, 2026.  (Caroline Brehman/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Petno and Rohrbaugh had jointly run the firm’s powerful consumer and investment bank, and were considered top contenders to replace Dimon when he is expected to begin transitioning out of his role as CEO as early as this year, though he has always been obtuse about the timing of his decision and has left open the possibility to remain as chairman indefinitely.

That said, inside JPM headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, there was nothing obtuse about the elevation of Petno and Rohrbaugh. Dimon created the co-president position precisely to set up a horse race between the two to take over as CEO sometime soon, these people say.

Marquee at the main entrance to the JPMorgan Chase Headquarters Building in Manhattan. (Erik McGregor/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)

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Both will have big shoes to fill. Since taking over as CEO of JPM in 2006, Dimon has emerged as the most important banker in the country and maybe its most important CEO. JPM is a sprawling “systemically important” institution that does everything from consumer lending to mergers and acquisitions to trading complex derivatives that are the plumbing of the global financial system.

He has successfully led the big bank through financial crises, small and large, such as the 2008 implosion and jostled with presidents from Barack Obama to Donald Trump over economic and banking policy. He is known for his shoot-from-the-hip public presence, and for his management acumen. JPM has been highly profitable and largely free of scandal during his reign. 

ARLINGTON, Texas — Japan and Sweden meet at Dallas Stadium fighting for a place in the World Cup knockout rounds, with both nations facing dramatically different paths into Thursday’s decisive Group F showdown.

Where the Group Stands

Japan and the Netherlands are currently tied in Group F with four points each, with the Dutch holding the tiebreaker on goals. But Sweden is right on their heels with three points. The winner of Thursday’s Japan vs. Sweden match will likely advance, while the loser is going home.

What’s at Stake for Each Team

A historic victory for Graham Potter’s side would catapult the Swedes to six points, instantly securing automatic qualification for the round of 32. Depending on the concurrent outcome of the Netherlands vs. Tunisia fixture, a win could potentially vault Sweden into a top-two finish, completely eliminating any reliance on wild-card scenarios. Conversely, this outcome would freeze Japan on four points, forcing the Samurai Blue to sweat on the parallel result or hope to advance as one of the best third-placed wild cards. Should Hajime Moriyasu’s men secure all three points, it would complete an undefeated group stage campaign for the Asian heavyweights and leave Sweden in a highly precarious position.

Japan’s Path to This Moment

Japan made history against Tunisia in Monterrey, winning 4-0 to become the first country representing the Asian Football Confederation to score four goals in a single World Cup game. Daichi Kamada needed only four minutes to convert essentially Japan’s first attack when he turned in Keito Nakamura’s endline cross at close range.

That result followed a dramatic comeback in their opener. In a thrilling Group F opener in Arlington on June 14, Japan denied the Netherlands a win with a last-minute equalizer — Koki Ogawa’s corner deflected off Daichi Kamada and past Bart Verbruggen in the 89th minute to secure a 2-2 draw. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock in the 51st minute; Keito Nakamura pulled Japan level six minutes later, and Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage, but Japan refused to slow down.

Sweden’s Rollercoaster Group Stage

Sweden’s campaign has swung dramatically between two extremes. Sweden became the first team to win their first game by four goals and then lose their second by four goals since Sweden in 1938. Fresh off a 5-1 win of their own over Tunisia, Sweden were on the receiving end of the same scoreline at the hands of the Netherlands. Brian Brobbey scored a first-half brace inside the first 20 minutes, dispatching two close-range efforts in the fifth and seventeenth minute — the fourth-fastest brace in World Cup history. The fixture was Sweden’s worst defeat at the World Cup since being thrashed 7-1 by Brazil in 1950.

Team News for Japan

Takefusa Kubo remains a major doubt for this crucial encounter due to a lingering knee injury. The Real Sociedad attacker sustained the issue during their draw against the Netherlands. Shuto Machino has also struggled with illness and is yet to feature on the pitch. In his absence, Hajime Moriyasu will likely retain the rest of his high-flying starting eleven tonight.

Team News for Sweden

Graham Potter faces tough personnel decisions following their defensive collapse against the clinical Dutch side. Anthony Elanga could earn a starting role at right wing-back after scoring a fine consolation goal. Youngster Lucas Bergvall pushes hard to replace Celtic midfielder Benjamin Nygren to provide extra defensive steel. Star attackers Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak will continue their blooming partnership up front.

A Key Tactical Battle in Midfield

The absolute heartbeat and dynamic engine of the Japanese midfield on Matchday 2, Daichi Kamada is tasked with dictating the possession rhythm and unlocking opposition lines for the Samurai Blue. Kamada operated masterfully in the heart of the midfield against Tunisia, breaking forward to provide a vital creative spark and getting himself on the scoresheet. Looking to disrupt that fluid creative rhythm is Sweden’s standout midfielder Jesper Karlström, who anchored the engine room on Matchday 2, attempting to provide tactical protection during a difficult outing against the Netherlands.

Predicted Lineups

Japan’s predicted starting eleven: Z. Suzuki; Tomiyasu, Itakura, H. Itō; Dōan, Sano, Tanaka, Nakamura; Itō, Kamada; Ueda.

Sweden’s predicted starting eleven: Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf; Elanga, Bergvall, Karlström, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Gyökeres, Isak.

A Notable Tournament Milestone

Beyond the immediate group stakes, Thursday’s fixture also carries a piece of World Cup history. The teams have previously met six times, including Japan’s 2-0 group stage victory at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which they co-hosted with South Korea. Their latest meeting took place in the 2023 Kirin Challenge Cup, which Japan also won by 2-0. This fixture was the 1,000th World Cup match, with the previous milestone of 900 having been reached at the 2018 FIFA World Cup final.

Match Details and How to Watch

The match kicks off at 6 p.m. local time at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with referee Iván Barton of El Salvador in charge. In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website, with kickoff at midnight BST heading into Friday.

What’s Ahead for the Group Winner

The winner of Group F will advance to play the runner-up of Group C, Morocco, while the runner-up of Group F will advance to play the winner of Group C, Brazil. With Tunisia having already lost their match and been eliminated, becoming the third team eliminated from the tournament following Haiti and Türkiye, Thursday’s result will determine the final shape of one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.

With Japan needing only a draw to guarantee their place in the knockout stage and Sweden requiring a win to keep their own qualification hopes fully in their own hands, Thursday’s match at Dallas Stadium carries genuinely high stakes for both nations. A Japan victory or draw would complete one of the more memorable group-stage campaigns of the tournament for the Samurai Blue, while a Sweden win would erase the memory of their lopsided defeat to the Netherlands and set up a potential top-two finish in the group, depending on how the simultaneous Netherlands-Tunisia fixture unfolds.

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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of MU either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.