Independent networks of gas stations have practically lost their profitability due to a sharp jump in exchange prices for gasoline, which have grown by more than 12% since the end of February. According to the National Exchange Price Agency, the retail margin now barely covers the operating expenses of gas stations, so operators are massively abandoning large wholesale purchases and switching to small batches.
Fuel prices continue to rise amid global volatility: after Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, quotations for oil and petroleum products went up. On the St. Petersburg Stock Exchange, a ton of AI-92 rose to 67.6 thousand rubles by March 23, AI-95 - to 71.39 thousand rubles. The situation is complicated by delays in shipments from refineries and unscheduled shutdowns of enterprises, especially in the southern direction, where demand is already growing due to the start of field work and preparation for the tourist season.
The authorities have not yet introduced mandatory standards for the small wholesale segment, but are discussing this possibility together with the Ministry of Energy. The FAS said that they do not record price imbalances: gas station networks, including independent operators, are fully supplied with fuel, and the growth of retail prices remains within inflation.
If high quotations are maintained, new reserves are not formed, which may create a shortage within the next month. The psychological factor and the risk of reorienting supplies to exports can provoke panic demand. Interest in large wholesale, according to analysts, will return only after a price correction, when the difference in prices will make railway purchases economically more profitable than small batches.
