The energy sector, as measured by the XLE ETF, has crossed its alert threshold due to a significant rally in crude oil prices. Brent crude futures briefly surpassed $100 a barrel, and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also saw a substantial increase. This surge is primarily attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including attacks on Saudi oil tankers by Houthi forces, which have heightened concerns about global oil supply disruptions. The rising oil prices have directly boosted the shares of major energy companies.