Disruptions in Red Sea shipping routes and ongoing OPEC+ supply cuts are driving tightening conditions in oil markets, leading to a surge in futures prices.
Recent disruptions in Red Sea shipping and OPEC+ supply cuts are exerting pressure on physical oil markets across Europe and Africa, as well as impacting the structure of the Brent crude market. Analysts, traders, and data from LSEG highlight the tightening conditions, which are further supporting oil futures prices.
The current upward trend in crude prices poses potential implications for various sectors including energy, transportation, and manufacturing. Rising prices could elevate costs in these sectors, potentially offsetting recent declines in global inflation, particularly as major central banks are anticipated to initiate interest rate cuts.
Market indicators reveal a significant bullish sentiment, with the Brent crude futures market structure reaching its most optimistic stance since October. The premium of the first-month contract over the six-month contract has surged to $4.34 a barrel, a characteristic known as backwardation, indicating tight prompt supply.
Analyst James Davis from FGE notes an increase in tanker diversions contributing to a tighter crude balance. Despite refinery maintenance, crude demand remains robust due to strong refining margins.
The escalation of drone and missile attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in mid-November has prompted more tankers to avoid the Red Sea, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts with Hamas. This disruption in shipping routes has further strained supply dynamics.
Refining margins in Europe have soared to multi-month highs in January, with diesel and gasoline averaging $34.3 and $11.6 a barrel, respectively, according to Reuters calculations.
Surprisingly, both U.S. and European crude markets are experiencing backwardation, contrary to earlier predictions of supply outpacing demand at the beginning of the year. This unforeseen strength in Brent and WTI prices has caught the trading community off guard.
The bullish market conditions are particularly favorable for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies in the OPEC+ alliance. Despite struggling to achieve prices above $80 per barrel in the past, Brent traded close to $84 a barrel on Thursday, marking a 9% increase since the beginning of the year.
OPEC+ leaders view the current backwardation trend positively, as it discourages traders from holding excess inventory for later resale at a premium. Low stocks also contribute to a bullish market sentiment, aligning with the group’s efforts to manage supply and stabilize prices.
In summary, disruptions in Red Sea shipping routes and ongoing OPEC+ supply cuts are driving tightening conditions in oil markets, leading to a surge in futures prices. The bullish sentiment is expected to benefit producers and could potentially have broader economic implications.