Just to stay on the topic. The Saudis have and will control the World oil prices. Not only do they have the worlds largest reserves and production but also by far the lowest cost of crude to market. Most of there reserves are free flowing wells with some capped with just ball valves. They can turn it on and off at will. They are not our "best friends" and have increasing finanacial needs at home. Also the Saudi brain trust has internally indicated that they should "make hay while the sun shines". They are worried about alternative energy sources long run.

If I remember correctly, they left the discovery, development, financing and construction of the oil infrastructure to others, do none of the support work, and just sit back and collect as much as they can from the fruits of others labors. All because they happened to inhabit the region for thousands of years. Talk about winning the lottery.

The best strategy for the long run? Use up the other guys stash first.