On March 16, 2026, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated in a CNBC interview that the U.S. Treasury is not intervening in oil commodities markets and does not have the authority to do so [1]. Bessent addressed circulating rumors suggesting that the Treasury Department or another government entity might step in to lower oil prices, clarifying, "That rumor's in the market. When there's big dynamic price action, that always happens. We haven't done that" [1]. He emphasized that while previous administrations, including President Donald Trump, have authorized releases or exchange loans from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve during periods of energy sector stress, direct intervention in oil futures markets would be unprecedented and controversial, as it targets financial markets rather than physical oil supply [1].
When questioned about the possibility of intervention, Bessent responded, "I'm not sure under what authority or what auspices" [1]. On the day of the interview, oil prices showed signs of stabilization: U.S. crude traded 1.9% lower at $96.86 per barrel, while international benchmark Brent crude edged higher at $103.15 [1].
The clarification from the Treasury Secretary appears to have contributed to calming market speculation regarding government intervention, with oil prices reflecting a mixed but less volatile response [1]. No forward-looking statements or analyst opinions were provided in the source article.
CONCLUSION
Treasury Secretary Bessent's denial of intervention in oil markets helped dispel rumors and contributed to a more stable trading environment. The market reacted with a modest decline in U.S. crude prices and a slight increase in Brent, reflecting reduced uncertainty. No plans for government action in oil futures were indicated.