Brent nears $108 after Saudi shuts East-West pipeline, cutting key route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz

Saudi Arabia's shutdown of the EastWest pipeline removes a key alternative export route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz, tightening perceived supply security. The headline risk elevates geopolitical and transportation constraints in the Middle East, supporting higher Brent pricing and increasing volatility across energy-linked assets. Spillovers may include higher inflation sensitivity and risk repricing in equities and credit tied to energy costs.