Huo Xing Finance reports that on May 7, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), in coordination with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), launched an investigation into a series of suspiciously timed oil market trades. These trades occurred shortly before former President Trump made major statements regarding Iran, with traders collectively investing over $2.6 billion betting on a decline in oil prices—prices that subsequently dropped as expected. Data from the London Stock Exchange Group indicates that the investigation involves at least four major trades; the identities of the traders have not been determined, and no evidence of insider trading has been established. The specific trades include: $500 million in volume 15 minutes before Trump announced a delay in attacking Iran’s power grid on March 23; $960 million in volume hours before a temporary ceasefire was announced on April 7; $760 million in volume 20 minutes before Iran’s Foreign Minister declared the Strait of Hormuz open on April 17; and $430 million in volume 15 minutes before Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire on April 21. Neither the DOJ nor the CFTC has commented on the matter, and the investigation is ongoing.
U.S. DOJ Investigates $2.6 Billion in Suspected Oil Market Trades Ahead of Iran Statements
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Summary
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating $2.6 billion in oil market trades tied to statements made during the Trump administration regarding Iran in early 2026. On-chain data indicates significant trades occurred minutes before key announcements, including a postponed strike on Iran’s power grid and temporary ceasefires, after which oil prices declined. The London Stock Exchange Group reported at least four large trades, but no insider trading has been confirmed. On-chain analysis has revealed no clear evidence of prior knowledge. The DOJ and CFTC have not commented, and the investigation is ongoing.
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