Crude oil futures are closing lower on Friday (Dec. 17) as concerns about the spread of the Omicron coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to circulate in the market.
- WTI crude futures fell 2.1% to close at $70.86 a barrel.
- Brent crude futures fell 2% to close at $73.52 a barrel.
Here, the IEA has issued a warning that the spread of the Omicron covid-19 virus will affect oil demand.
Global oil markets are facing oversupply, and these conditions will worsen early next year given the spread of the COVID-19 virus of the Omicron strain in international travel.
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that preliminary evidence suggests that the Covid-19 vaccine may be less effective in preventing infection and the spread of Omicron strains. Previously, some mainstream media outlets had reported that a third vaccination would be very effective. This has confused market participants.
In one study, three of Sinofarm’s 13 full-dose vaccines were able to produce antibodies to Omicron, while Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine provided immunity in only one out of 12. Of the 11 Sputnik vaccines, none was immune, including Pfizer/Biontech, Moderna and AstraZeneca, which also showed low antibodies.
The Spot Market is Closed
Saturday, December 18, 2021
| Energy Updated at | USD Price | Change | %Change |
| Crude Oil 10.35 | 70.29 | -2.09 | -2.89% |