Alimentation Couche-Tard reported record fuel sales in fiscal 2026 as ongoing Middle East tensions helped keep oil prices elevated. Fuel revenue and gross profit increased even as same-store fuel volumes declined in the United States and Europe, while Canada recorded growth. Brent crude is forecast to average about $85 per barrel for the year. The company is benefiting from stronger fuel sales but is also seeing reduced consumer spending and fewer store visits as households manage tighter budgets. Attention is turning to Middle East developments, OPEC and the International Energy Agency for signals on crude supply and pricing, as observers assess whether current oil-price and consumer trends could support expectations for new crude-oil highs by year-end.