CFO of Norway's National Petroleum Company: Even if the Strait of Hormuz remains open, we believe Europe will not be able to reach its target natural gas storage level before winter.

With the prospects for US-Iran negotiations remaining bleak, European natural gas prices remain stubbornly high, posing a severe supply challenge for the upcoming winter.

Japan imported approximately 1.53 million barrels of Russian oil between May and June, with companies stating the aim is to diversify supply channels.

Spot gold has just broken through the $4,120.00 per ounce mark, now quoted at $4,119.94 per ounce, up 1.04% on the day; COMEX gold futures main contract is now quoted at $4,124.30 per ounce, up 1.18% on the day.

Spot platinum has just broken through the $1,650.00 per ounce level, now quoted at $1,649.76 per ounce, up 1.38% on the day; Nymex platinum futures main contract is now quoted at $1,663.9 per ounce, up 1.59% on the day.