What $100 Oil Changes — The Chain Reaction from Gas Stations to Layoffs
What $100 Oil Changes — The Chain Reaction from Gas Stations to Layoffs
Despite the ceasefire, crude oil holds above $100 per barrel. The chain reaction — rising gas prices → shrinking disposable income → weaker spending → earnings decline → layoffs — is the core risk. PCE at 3% versus the Fed's 2% target, and if oil holds for 2-3+ months, consumer behavior starts to shift.