Chevron reported $9.9 billion in profits during the third quarter of 2026, nearly triple the $3.5 billion earned during the same period last year. A significant portion of the increase came from refining operations, where profits climbed from $1.1 billion to $4.9 billion. ExxonMobil also reported substantial gains in its refining and fuels business. According to LEX18, disruptions to global refining capacity, including the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, have contributed to higher fuel prices despite fluctuations in crude oil costs. The national average for regular gasoline is approximately $4.20 per gallon, compared with $3.03 a year ago. Diesel prices remain above $6 per gallon. Industry analysts say reduced refining capacity has increased the cost of producing gasoline and diesel, while companies continue investing in production and returning profits to shareholders. Source: LEX18 #AppalachiaInsider #EasternKentucky #GasPrices #Chevron #ExxonMobil #EnergyNews