With summer road trips in full swing, all eyes are on those gas station numbers. And the prices you'll pay at the pump may be more than just an annoyance for your road trip budget - they could be portfolio movers too.
Here's a quick refuel on what to watch for gas prices this summer and how they may impact your investments:
•GasBuddy expects the national average to stick between $3.25-$3.75/gallon over the coming months. Not too painful...yet.
•But supply disruptions from hurricanes, geopolitics, or other shocks could trigger spikes. The U.S. lacks a big inventory cushion.
•If prices surge, buckle up for turbulence in consumer stocks like travel, retail, and restaurants as higher gas crimps spending.
•Flip side: Energy stocks could get a lift from fatter profits at the pump for oil/gas companies.
•Airliners may also run on fumes if jet fuel costs soar off higher gasoline prices.
•An oil price shock rattling the economy is the doomsday scenario for markets overall. Higher gas = less consumer fuel.
The summertime gasoline situation remains fluid. For now, prices look manageable barring any wildcards throwing a wrench in supply. But keep tabs on those numbers - they could be an important signal for shifting your portfolio's gear this season.
