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Refiners Don't Agree on Lifting the Crude Oil Export Ban, but Are They Missing the Point?

By Joel South and Taylor Muckerman – Jan 27, 2014 at 2:11PM

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Should the debate on lifting the crude oil ban be focused on NAFTA instead?

This segment is from Thursday's edition of "Digging for Value," in which sector analysts Joel South and Taylor Muckerman discuss energy and materials news with host Alison Southwick. The twice-weekly show can be viewed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It can also be found on Twitter, along with our extended coverage of the energy and materials sectors @TMFEnergy.

The line is drawn between supporters and detractors of the exporting crude oil debate in the United States. Interestingly enough, refiners who benefit from lower crude prices are split on the issue. Phillips 66 (PSX 3.12%) is siding with big oil and arguing free trade is the best route. Valero Energy (VLO 2.15%), on the other hand, believes cheaper oil will lead to lower gas prices for consumers. Of the two biggest independent refiners in North America, who is correct and where should this debate be focused? Check out the video below for more information. 

Joel South owns shares of SunPower. Taylor Muckerman has no position in any stocks mentioned, and neither does The Motley Fool.  We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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