NYMEX diesel April futures settle at $4.0147 a gallon

NYMEX diesel April futures settled at $4.0147 per gallon on March 13, 2026, reflecting ongoing dynamics in the global diesel market. The New York Harbor ULSD futures contract (HO), with a standard size of 42,000 gallons, is traded 23 hours daily on CME Globex, providing liquidity across major markets. The settlement price aligns with seasonal patterns, as winter demand for heating oil and distillate fuels remains sensitive to temperature fluctuations and potential fuel substitution according to market analysis.

Economic activity also influences diesel prices, as the fuel underpins transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors. Recent data on global manufacturing and energy consumption trends have shaped market expectations, with traders monitoring indicators like the EIA's Weekly Petroleum Status Report for demand signals. Additionally, technical correlations between ULSD, WTI crude oil, and RBOB gasoline futures create short-term price divergences, offering opportunities for arbitrage and hedging strategies.

The CME Group Volatility Index (CVOL) for ULSD futures highlights elevated implied volatility, underscoring market uncertainty ahead of key seasonal and economic events. Traders are advised to consider these factors alongside broader energy market developments, including OPEC policy shifts and geopolitical risks, which may amplify price swings in the near term.

CME Group provides real-time data: CME Group provides real-time data and tools for tracking ULSD futures, including contract specifications and volatility indices.
EIA reports official NYMEX closing prices: EIA reports official NYMEX closing prices at 2:30 p.m. for specific delivery months.
Seasonality, economic activity, and technical correlations: Seasonality, economic activity, and technical correlations are key drivers of ULSD futures trading strategies.