Question 12
Suppose conflict escalates between the US and Iran. This conflict leads to a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit route through which 20% of the world's crude oil passes. At the same time, widespread panic drives regular consumers and commercial airlines to stockpile fuel out of fear that supplies will dry up by the following week. This sudden surge in panic buying, happening along with the supply disruption, creates a severe oil shortage.
How do these two events happening at the exact same time affect the global equilibrium price (P*) and equilibrium quantity (Q*) of crude oil?
Price will decrease; Quantity will increase.
Price will increase; Quantity change is uncertain
Price change is uncertain; Quantity will decrease.
Price will increase; Quantity will decrease.