Middle East Conflict Driving Oil Prices Higher: As a major operator of convenience stores and fuel wholesalers, ARKO's profitability is significantly affected by fuel prices. Rising oil prices due to the Middle East conflict could increase ARKO's cost of fuel and potentially impact consumer demand at the pump, affecting its retail and wholesale fuel margins.

IMF Downgrading Global Growth Forecasts: A slowdown in global economic growth, as anticipated by the IMF, could lead to reduced consumer discretionary spending. This would likely impact in-store merchandise sales at ARKO's convenience stores, which constitute a portion of its revenue.

Strong US Jobs Market and Low Unemployment: The robust US economy, evidenced by 178,000 jobs added in March and an unemployment rate of 4.3%, could support consumer confidence and disposable income. This positive domestic economic factor might partially offset the negative impacts of higher fuel prices and global growth concerns by sustaining demand for convenience store items and everyday fuel purchases.