NYT
The Hidden Reason Gas Prices Are Not Going Down
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
The crack spread—the profit margin between crude oil and refined gasoline—is a factor in retail gas prices alongside crude oil costs. The crack spread fluctuates based on refinery capacity, demand for refined products, and other market conditions.
Original reporting: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/19/opinion/gas-prices-crude-oil-diesel.html