Explainer: What is the petrodollar and why is it under pressure?

As the US seeks to carve out a sphere of influence in the Western Hemisphere, questions grow about the dollar’s future as the lynchpin of the global economy
methane oil gas
Gas flaring is seen at the state-owned oil company in Venezuela. (Photo: REUTERS/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria)

Join us to keep reading

Our goal is simple: to help you make sense of the policy decisions shaping the planet and what they mean for all of us.

Join us free today →

It takes less than a minute.


Or login below to unlock access if you already have an account.

Benefit from more essential insight

Our unprecedented reporting provides experts and professionals globally with the analysis and insight they need to navigate the most important climate issues.

Trusted by the UN, World Bank, and governments around the world, sign up today and see why our award-winning coverage has been considered the authority for almost 15 years.

Essential

£0

A few top stories each week alongside our Climate Weekly newsletter.

Premium

£40

per quarter

Unlimited access to our expert coverage alongside our Climate Weekly newsletter. You can upgrade to an annual subscription at any time.