Winter is Coming for Global Oil Supplies A Dire Warning

A Storm of Swords for Global Energy Markets

As Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen First of Her Name Queen of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea Breaker of Chains and Mother of Dragons I've weathered many storms but this one brewing in the East sounds particularly fierce. This "energy crisis," as they call it reminds me of the Long Night—a threat to all regardless of allegiance. Fatih Birol head of the International Energy Agency speaks of an oil supply glut turned famine thanks to this U.S. Iran spat. It appears this conflict is set to unleash economic dragons upon us all.

April's Fury: Double the Dragons' Breath

Birol warns that April will be "much worse than March." In March some oil tankers still sailed through the Strait of Hormuz but April promises a barren sea. He speaks of "loss of oil" and potential "rationing of energy." Rationing? Reminds me of the siege of Meereen but on a global scale. This could very well impact global economic growth especially within emerging economies and could be avoided if only cooler heads prevailed. Much like with my dragons controlling oil supplies requires a careful hand. Speaking of controlling things SoftBank Scores Big with OpenAI Bet: A Comeback Story and that's something that could really help out with the distribution of resources if the right people were in control of it.

More Than Just Oil A Sea of Troubles

It's not just oil you see. This Birol speaks of gas petrochemicals fertilizers and sulfur – vital commodities all. "We are heading towards a major major disruption and the biggest in history," he claims. Such disruption could make even the Red Wedding look like a simple family squabble. I've always said "When I take what is mine I will do only what is good and right." Perhaps these nations should heed my words focusing on what is good and right for their people not just their coffers.

IEA's Reserve Release A Palliative Not a Cure

The IEA is considering releasing strategic oil reserves. A noble gesture perhaps but Birol himself admits it's merely "helping to reduce the pain," not a "cure." Releasing reserves is like using wildfire – powerful but with consequences. The true solution he says is opening the Strait of Hormuz. It seems to me a little diplomacy might do them all a world of good.

A Khaleesi's Wisdom in Times of Crisis

Since this U.S and Israel launched strikes on Iran the price of Brent crude has according to the reports risen 60%. As I survey this landscape of potential economic woe I'm reminded of my own struggles for the Iron Throne. Power is a fickle thing. Control of resources of course can provide an alternative however these strategies must have a broader scope in mind or we are all doomed. This crisis requires strategic thinking not just knee jerk reactions.

Speed Limits and Ovens The IEA's Prescriptions

The IEA suggests reducing speed limits working from home and limiting gas oven use. While these are sensible measures they feel a bit like advising me to ride a pony instead of Drogon. Practical perhaps but hardly inspiring. Surely the ingenuity of humankind can offer more robust solutions than simply turning down the heat. Let us hope that this crisis forces innovation not just austerity. After all as I always say “I will answer injustice with justice.” Let's hope these nations do the same and ensure this energy crisis doesn’t turn into another Long Night.