This is the premise of a Globe and Mail article written today by Patrick Brethour. The price of oil as a commodity in the market has increased due to its depletion, as well as due to the unpredictability of its sources. This includes unrest in South America, the Middle-east and the newest addition, of course, being the erruption of an oil pipe this week, which delayed shipments from Alaska. The constant fluctuation is said to worse here in Canada then in the US, as not only is the price greater, but Canadian have less disposable income.They also have little to no brand loyalty and will even chase down the smallest bargain, which, in the example Brethour used, was a half cent spread over 50 litres, giving you a 25 cent saving. The article goes on to state as little as 5 years ago gas prices only changed 1 to 2 times a day, however they presently are changed every two hours, on average. With such fast and intense competition amoungst gas stations, it is easy to see why prices fluctuate so often. Gas pumps are trying to attract customers, but at the same time react to price increases and drop within the commodity market. With the increase in technology, this has become easier for stations, who, as one example cites, are able to change prices using programmed computer with set marketing properties. Consumers also add to fluctuations through technology. By posting lowest gas prices on blogs and internet sites, Canadians are "accomplishing in moments the sort of collusion forbidden by law to gasoline retailers," as Brethour explains. Read "Going an extra mile for gas adds to price fluctuations" at GlobeandMail.com, for more information. Tied of chasing down bargins? Check out "11 Ways to Save on Gas This Summer" at ConsumerAutoDigest.com Ready to get a more green car, and spend less on gas. Check out our E85 fuel articles, and go to CarLoansCanada.com for your financing options. | 
