The oil price reached $68 a barrel on Friday, January 20th, amid worries about the security of supply from Iran, the world’s fourth largest exporter, where there is talk of possible economic sanctions. Adding to the tension, oil firms in Nigeria, the eighth biggest exporter, have been attacked by militants. And Osama bin Laden has released an audiotape threatening more attacks on the west. With demand from Asia as firm as ever, oil is heading in only one direction. (The Economist)