Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH +3.20%) rose on Monday after oil prices retreated from their highs.
By the close of trading, Norwegian's stock price was up more than 6%.
Image source: Getty Images.
Welcome relief
Fuel is typically one of the largest expenses for cruise ship operators. It therefore comes as no surprise that Norwegian's stock price took a hit in recent weeks, as oil prices surged amid intensified conflict in the Middle East.
Additionally, consumers tend to pull back on vacations and other discretionary spending when gasoline prices rise and overall inflation increases. These factors likely also contributed to the recent swoon in Norwegian's shares.
NYSE: NCLH
Key Data Points
So, it's easy to see why investors celebrated reports of peace talks between the U.S. and Iran and a corresponding decline in oil prices. Norwegian and other cruise stocks rallied in kind.
Choppy waters still lie ahead
The situation in the Middle East remains precarious, so energy prices are likely to remain volatile. If peace talks break down, oil prices could head higher once again. That would weigh on Norwegian's sales and dent its profits.
But if the talks prove productive and conditions in the Middle East stabilize, a powerful rally in cruise stocks could materialize.
