The Middle East is synonymous with oil production. And historically, oil prices usually surge when there's a conflict there. But right now, despite the Israel-Hamas war, we're seeing the opposite — oil prices have fallen. Today on the show: how the region's history, geography and markets are shaping oil prices. Related Episodes: <a href="https://www.npr.org/2022/10/13/1128907257/why-oil-shocks-are-getting-less-shocking">Why oil price shocks are getting less shocking</a> (<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-oil-shocks-are-getting-less-shocking/id1320118593?i=1000582586274">Apple Podcasts</a>/<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3SnsjwfVOd89rao4iDFnHr?si=2d2W31jyRxu8cuWvZZttpA">Spotify</a>) <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/10/19/1197956089/the-indicator-from-planet-money-egypt-gaza-refugees">What could convince Egypt to take in Gaza's refugees?</a> (<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-indicator-from-planet-money/id1320118593?i=1000631931091">Apple Podcasts</a>/<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2lFvO3YqXfMt5IdOHt8ChO?si=4PNyihEBTeq9UWB9om974A">Spotify</a>) Learn more about sponsor message choices: <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a> <a href="https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy">NPR Privacy Policy</a>

Putting the 80/20 rule to the test

A bite-sized show about big ideas. From the people who make Planet Money, The Indicator helps you make sense of what's happening in today's economy. It's a quick hit of insight into money, work, and business. Monday through Friday, in 10 minutes or less.