Current Situation:
The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has experienced a slight decline due to the strengthening of the US dollar (USD), supported by rising yields. Currently, the price of WTI is around $81.20 per barrel during European hours on Thursday, after gaining ground in the Asian session due to a larger-than-expected drop in US crude oil inventories.
Supply and Demand:
The reduction in US crude oil inventories has been significant. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a decrease of 4.87 million barrels for the week ending July 12, a figure much higher than the expected drop of 0.80 million barrels and the previous decrease of 3.443 million barrels. This decline in inventories may suggest robust domestic demand, which can have a positive effect on oil prices.
Impact of Monetary Policies:
Expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will reduce interest rates in September could improve economic conditions in the United States. With lower borrowing costs, economic activity could increase, which in turn could support oil demand. Statements by Fed Governor Christopher Waller and Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin indicate a possible rate cut, which could further incentivize oil demand.
Market Pressures:
Despite some positive signs, the overall decline in commodity demand expectations continues to threaten the energy complex. According to Daniel Ghali, senior commodity strategist at TDS, the absence of an increase in supply risk premia could continue to exert downward pressure on prices. However, Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs) still have substantial resources to deploy in the market, which could limit price declines in the short term, barring a significant downturn.
Global Challenges:
Another challenge for WTI oil prices is the economic slowdown in China in the second quarter, which reduces demand from the world's largest oil-importing country. Increasing trade tensions, with new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles imposed by the United States and the European Union, contribute to an uncertain global economic outlook, negatively impacting oil demand.