Barchart article that asked if there was more downside in crude oil, I cautioned: The geopolitical landscape remains highly tense, with potential hostilities in the Middle East and other regions. Any geopolitical surprises could ignite a recovery rally in crude oil futures,

The U.S. crude oil price benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, fell 8% to less than $68 a barrel, the lowest level since last week. The global Brent crude price benchmark likewise fell about 8%. Major stock indexes ended the day in positive territory.

Spot rates for very large crude carriers (VLCCs) sailing from the Persian Gulf to Asia have fallen sharply in recent days, as military tensions near the Strait of Hormuz subside and shipping flows res