Oil markets experienced a notable surge on Friday (Nov. 17), witnessing a remarkable upturn of more than 4% in crude oil futures. The surge, following a recent dip to four-month lows on Thursday, stemmed from a resurgence in investor activity, marked by speculative buying and an endeavor to offset short sales. Additionally, the market received a boost from the US imposition of sanctions on Russian oil tankers.
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures soared by $2.99, marking a significant 4.1% increase, to close at $75.89 per barrel. Concurrently, Brent crude futures surged by $3.19, mirroring a similar 4.1% rise, closing at $80.61 per barrel.
The impetus behind the surge was accentuated by the US administration’s implementation of sanctions earlier in the week. These sanctions targeted Russian shipping firms and oil tankers engaged in selling oil above the price cap outlined by the G7 nations.
Despite this notable surge, both WTI and Brent crude contracts remain down by more than 1% for the week, extending a four-week decline streak. The downward pressure persisted primarily due to the burgeoning US crude oil stocks, coupled with sustained record-high production levels.
The market sentiment continues to be influenced by ongoing challenges, notably the exacerbating real estate crisis and the decelerating industrial sector in China, exerting sustained pressure on oil prices.
Investor focus now shifts to the upcoming meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, commonly known as OPEC+. The scheduled meeting on Nov. 26 gains significance after OPEC+ previously agreed on a substantial production cut totaling 3.66 million barrels per day until the conclusion of 2024.
The market anticipates the forthcoming discussions to provide clarity on production strategies, potentially influencing future market dynamics amidst efforts to stabilize oil prices.
The Spot Market is Closed
Saturday, November 18, 2023
| Energy Updated at | USD Price | Change | %Change |
| Crude Oil 08.55 | 75.84 | +2.94 | +4.03% |