BP profits jump as Middle East conflict drives up oil refining margins

BP profits jump as Middle East conflict drives up oil refining margins

BP reported a sharp increase in third‑quarter earnings, with underlying replacement‑cost profit climbing to $8.46 billion, compared with $2.2 billion a year earlier. The rise is attributed to higher oil refining margins driven by the conflict in the Middle East, which boosted demand and prices for refined products. The company highlighted the boost to its profitability overall.