OPEC+ Extends Production Cuts: A Calculated Volatile MoveThe recent OPEC+ meeting on June 2nd, 2024, resulted in a significant decision to extend production cuts. This move by the oil cartel, which includes major oil producers like Saudi Arabia and Russia, aims to navigate a complex economic climate and influence global oil prices.
Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from the meeting:
• Extended Cuts of 3.66 Million Bpd Until December 2025: This is the most impactful decision. OPEC+ originally planned to ease these cuts by the end of 2024. However, extending them by a year indicates a commitment to controlling supply and potentially keeping oil prices elevated.
• Prolonged Cuts of 2.2 Million Bpd Until September 2024: These deeper cuts, initially set to expire in June 2024, have been extended for an additional three months. This further tightens the supply in the short term.
• Phased Out Production Cuts (2.2 Million Bpd) from October 2024 to September 2025: While extending cuts, OPEC+ has acknowledged the need for a gradual return to pre-cut production levels. This measured approach aims to prevent a price shock if all cuts were lifted abruptly.
Understanding the reasoning behind these decisions requires looking at the current oil market landscape. Several factors are likely influencing OPEC+'s strategy:
• Geopolitical Tensions: The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to disrupt global energy supplies. This disruption, coupled with potential sanctions on Russian oil, has tightened supply and driven prices upwards. OPEC+ may be aiming to maintain a price floor by keeping production cuts in place.
• Post-Pandemic Recovery: The global economy is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. While demand for oil is increasing, it hasn't fully reached pre-pandemic levels. OPEC+ might be cautious about increasing supply too quickly, fearing it could outpace demand and lead to a price slump.
• Shale Oil Production: The resurgence of shale oil production in the United States is a factor to consider. OPEC+ might be strategically keeping production cuts to maintain its market share and influence over global oil prices.
The decision to extend cuts is likely to have a domino effect:
• Impact on Oil Prices: Analysts predict that the production cut extensions will likely lead to a continued rise in oil prices. This could benefit oil-producing nations but put a strain on consumers and industries reliant on oil, potentially leading to higher transportation costs and production expenses.
• Global Economic Growth: Higher oil prices can dampen economic growth as consumer spending power decreases due to increased energy costs. This is a concern for countries already grappling with inflation.
• Shift Towards Renewables: OPEC+'s move to control supply could incentivize a faster transition towards renewable energy sources. Countries looking to lessen their dependence on volatile oil prices might accelerate investments in clean energy alternatives.
The future trajectory of the oil market remains uncertain. OPEC+'s decision to extend production cuts is a calculated move to navigate a complex economic climate. While it might benefit oil-producing nations in the short term, it could also have consequences for consumers and the global economic recovery. How this strategy unfolds and how the market reacts will be interesting to watch in the coming months.
Oilprice
Can Oil soar on June 2 OPEC+ cut hopes? Can Oil soar on June 2 OPEC+ cut hopes?
WTI crude futures and Brent continue to recover from three-month lows. The rebound is potentially driven by expectations that OPEC+ will extend its output cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day into the second half of the year during its June 2 meeting.
Additional support for crude prices came from the start of the U.S. summer driving season and a weaker dollar.
Further data on the demand side will come from upcoming U.S. PCE to gauge the Federal Reserve's future monetary policy. A softer-than-expected reading on the PCE could increase the possibility of interest rate cuts, and potentially enhance the demand for energy.
Deutsche Bank has maintained its Brent forecast at $83 per barrel for the second quarter and $88 for the second half of the year, assuming OPEC+ will sustain its current production policy on Sunday.
Should prices move above the $80 level, WTI could test the 50-day moving average just above $81.1. The RSI suggests there is still room for prices to rise before reaching the overbought zone. Conversely, if prices fall below the $78 range, they might stabilize around the $76 mark.
USOIL - Short or Buy? Break down or retracement up? Technicals
1. We have been stuck in a range on a higher time frame for quite some time now.
2. On a higher time frame we failed to confirm a break-up from a trendline dating back to March 2022, which was the COVID-19 highs. A failed break-up of this mega trendline is normally a sign of big reversal or retracement. & we did just that ;-) question is, is this a reversal or just a retracement because I see also a trendline from DEC 2023 which we trade just under. IMO we have not fully confirmed that break down.
3. Visible in my chart we see that we are since then on a big down sloping channel which is still respected.
Fundamentals
1. My bias is slightly bearish long term because I think the US economy & other major economies will be in a recession which will give downside pressure on the price of OIL
2. Conflict in the Middle East seems to have not a significant impact as of now on the price of USOIL. Will this change? Till I see major escalation happening I don't see that it will have greater impact than it already has. US also is less energy dependent so therefor geopolitical will impact less.
3. Bullish sign is that OPEC is still holding strong on OIL cuts and China is still strong. Summer season will also give some upside pressure because of demand.
Trade
1. The first trade, which is a buy option, I will take if I see buyers really taking over to push price up
2. The second trade, which is a sell, I will take if we confirm a break and retest of the weekly low.
Great trading all of you
Greetingz,
Simba Trades
Oil Counter-Trend Longs into Next ShortOil has broken the 15 minute shorts and now are on their way to the All The Way HWB shorts in on the larger 4 hour time frames. You can see how on Friday, the small time frame shorts survived multiple 4 hour candle dives below the 61.8% longs, only to close at or above the 61.8% long. Our 15 minute bias is long and expect it to trade back up to the 82.18-83.42 level, where we sold it in April. Where we can, we will try to be a buyer . . . should have bought those 15 min longs on Friday but it's a hard contract to hold over the weekend. . . .though if there is a direction to hold oil over the weekend, it would be long in the event of a geo-political issue that causes a gap up in oil prices.
US Crude Oil Benchmark: Implications of Rising InventoriesThe US crude oil benchmark is currently trading around $79.50 on Friday, marking a continued decline from its recent peak of $88.00. This downward trend is attributed to several factors, including rising crude inventories in the United States and diminishing expectations for interest rate cuts from the US Federal Reserve (Fed).
The Fed's decision to maintain interest rates unchanged on Wednesday, despite persistent inflationary pressures, has contributed to market sentiment. The central bank indicated that it will refrain from cutting interest rates until it has greater confidence in the sustained moderation of price increases towards its 2% target. This stance, described as "higher-for-longer," suggests a prolonged period of unchanged rates, potentially leading to reduced demand for oil as economic activity slows.
In light of these developments, there is a strategic opportunity to consider buying oil at discounted prices. Two buy limit orders have been placed, anticipating a potential increase in oil prices over the next two months. This expectation is supported by historical patterns and insights from the Cot report, which indicates a decrease short positions of Money Managers. Consequently, there is optimism for a rebound in oil value in the foreseeable future.
Crude - Pre Market Guessing.So I don't take too much of my time on the weekend trying to figure out where price is going to go as price isnt even active.
So barring any exponential moves Sunday open I am still bearish and have :
Monthly Wick CE and target 1
Weekly SSL as target 2
Pre CME open I will re analyse where the market is and publish further forecast for the day.
Technical Forecast... Crude OilWith FOMC looming today and NFC I don't see any reason for the Weekly SSL to be taken out and price to at least stab into the Daily FVG.
I will be looking out for meaning full moves into these price points during NY session today.
London may offer a little chance to create some false idea we have done it but usually the move is fake and revisited.
80.50 is my weekly objective as it has been from late last week.
So my trade idea's will evolve around price post retracement and then heading down.
Crude Oil Tuesday.Daily Bearish
Stay Bearish bias until 1hr -OB is closed above with a displacement candle @ 83.25
In this chart I am illustrating why IMO, this is a High resistance Liquidity run and not LRLR.
The Price in the circle is Balanced, so for price to cut through this with ease is difficult all be it we have a signature LRLR bellow.
So if a bearish setup appears don't expect it to run through like butter..
I am looking for bearish PA
Crude Oil ForecastSo I was looking at Crude on the weekend and I couldn't determine a clear direction for Monday.
Now Monday Is almost over and we Have disrespected the Mean threshold of the Daily +OB I do expect price to be bearish and heading down towards the Daily FVG.
An Good indicator on the Daily we have respected the WEEKLY ifvg CE.
These things are very important to watch.
Before 0930est I will post intra day targets that I suspect will be Draw On Liquidity.
Bring on Tuesday!
Why Oil Bulls May Be Right: Signs of a Tightening MarketOil prices have experienced a volatile period in recent months, with concerns about global economic growth and geopolitical tensions battling it out with signs of a tightening physical market. However, for investors with a long-term perspective, recent developments suggest a potential bull run for oil, making it an attractive asset to consider.
Here's a deeper dive into why going long on oil could be a strategic move:
Tightening Physical Supplies: One of the most compelling arguments for a long position is the evidence of a tightening physical market. This is reflected in key timespreads, which compare the price of oil for immediate delivery to the price for delivery at a future date. In a healthy market with ample supply, the price of oil for immediate delivery would be lower than the price for future delivery (contango). However, when the physical market tightens, the opposite happens – the price of oil for immediate delivery becomes higher than the price for future delivery (backwardation). This phenomenon, currently observed in the oil market, suggests that there is a higher demand for oil right now than there is readily available supply.
OPEC+ Production Cuts: Adding fuel to the fire are the production cuts implemented by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, collectively known as OPEC+. These cuts, aimed at supporting oil prices, have helped to restrict supply and contribute to the tightening market conditions. While OPEC+ is considering easing the cuts in the coming months, the extent of this easing and its impact on the market remain uncertain.
Geopolitical Instability: Geopolitical tensions around the world, particularly in major oil-producing regions, can also disrupt supply and push prices higher. Recent events, such as ongoing conflicts or threats to critical infrastructure, highlight the vulnerability of the global oil supply chain.
Limited Non-OPEC Growth: While concerns persist about a potential slowdown in global economic growth, particularly in China, the anticipated increase in oil production from non-OPEC members may be less pronounced than previously expected. This could further exacerbate supply constraints and bolster the case for oil bulls.
However, some headwinds remain: It's important to acknowledge the countervailing factors that could dampen oil prices. The persistent issue of inflation in the US, for instance, could lead to interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. This, in turn, could strengthen the US dollar and make oil, priced in dollars, more expensive for buyers using other currencies, potentially dampening demand.
Conclusion: Despite these headwinds, the evidence of a tightening physical market, coupled with OPEC+ production cuts, geopolitical uncertainties, and limited non-OPEC growth, paints a compelling picture for a potential oil price rally. For investors with a long-term perspective, strategically going long on oil could be a profitable decision. However, careful monitoring of factors that might impact supply and demand, such as global economic conditions and policy decisions, is crucial for managing risk and making informed investment choices.
Oil / Crude Oil Heading into end of WeekSo we are on the Daily Not moving with much drive and lets say... obvious direction when it comes to day to day bias (Overall Bearish)
I am ONLY focusing on PDH and PDL as targets today with any signal to buy or sell into the market being in a discount before I place a trade.
Range day - yes
To consider that Thursday's have seen good movement on Oil recently so keep this in mind.
Consider also that the Daily wick CE is also aligned with the weekly ifvg.
I will be looking to enter positions today as I am a scalper however anything on the 15min or above I would side with caution as prolonged moves may not be on the cards esp going on the last two weeks of PA.
Also like to thank the people who Boost my posts it means a lot.
Jump on the Oil Swings with Confidence!I am excited to share some positive news with you regarding the recent developments in the oil industry.
According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), crude inventories took a significant dip last week, falling by a whopping 6.37 million barrels. This decline has sparked a wave of optimism in the market, with WTI prices hovering around $83 a barrel and swinging between gains and losses.
As we navigate through this risk-off mood and witness the US stockpile decline, now is the perfect time to consider going long on oil. The potential for further price increases is certainly within reach, and this could be a lucrative opportunity for all of us.
So, let's not hesitate and take advantage of these oil swings with confidence. Trust your instincts, do your research, and make informed decisions. Together, we can ride the wave of success in the oil market.
Crude Oil WednesdayToday On the Daily I am in confliction with bias meaning that it could be changing soon if we repeat another bullish closing day.
For this I have dropped down onto the 4hr TF and the most recent 4hr -ob is what I will be referencing as to Bullish or Bearish intra day PA.
Scalpers Market atm
If you un sure, sit still.
We did close above the Daily v.i as I have mentioned in my previous posts... so my bias for 80.50 is in jeopardy but as a trader your mind must be dynamic.
As I said sit still or scalp but not in the middle.
Oil/Crude oil - TuesdaySo we have achieved one target for price and that was to reach the Daily V.i and so far London has rejected going higher...
Would like to see price head down post 0930est
My target is still 80.50 just waiting for price to align with my thoughts is what is most important before pressing the button.
At minimum PDL would be a bearish target
I don't see why we would want to go higher until proven wrong - Closing above the Daily V.i...
Thanks
Oil Traders Navigate Geopolitical Risk in Already Tight MarketThe recent escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict has cast a long shadow over the global oil market. Already grappling with tight supply and high prices, oil traders are now forced to factor in the potential for disruptions caused by the ongoing hostilities. This idea explores the current situation, potential outcomes, and analyst perspectives on the future of oil prices.
A Market on Edge: Tight Supply and Geopolitical Risk
The oil market entered 2024 facing a confluence of factors pushing prices upwards. Limited production increases from OPEC+, ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war, and a rebounding global economy demanding more energy all contributed to a tight supply situation. This dynamic sent oil prices surging above $90 a barrel earlier this year.
The escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel adds a new layer of uncertainty to this already volatile market. Iran's direct attack on Israel marks a significant shift, raising concerns about potential disruptions to oil supplies from the Middle East, a region that accounts for roughly a fifth of global oil production.
Focus on the Strait of Hormuz
A key concern for oil traders is the potential for disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world's oil transits. Any actions that threaten the free flow of oil through this strategic waterway could send prices skyrocketing. Iran has previously threatened to close the Strait in response to heightened tensions, and recent events have heightened focus on this possibility.
Futures Market Reacts, But Risks Remain
Following the initial attack by Iran, oil futures prices did experience a spike as traders factored in the increased risk premium. However, prices have since eased somewhat, indicating a degree of cautious optimism that the situation might not escalate further. Despite this, analysts warn that the underlying risks remain.
Analysts Weigh In: Possible Outcomes and Price Predictions
Several potential scenarios could emerge from the current situation, each with its own impact on oil prices.
• Tighter Sanctions: Banks like Goldman Sachs highlight the possibility of stricter sanctions being imposed on Iran, potentially leading to a loss of 500,000 to 1 million barrels of oil per day from the global market.
• Israeli Military Response: Analysts at RBC Capital Markets warn that a significant Israeli retaliation could trigger a destabilizing cycle, further disrupting oil supplies and pushing prices even higher.
• Limited Conflict: Other analysts, like ING, suggest that the market had already priced in the possibility of a limited attack, and the potential for a measured Israeli response could see prices stabilize or even decline slightly.
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Citigroup, however, takes a more cautious approach, raising its short-term price forecasts due to the "extremely high" tensions. They estimate that a full-blown conflict between Iran and Israel could see oil prices surge as high as $100 per barrel.
Looking Ahead: A Market in Flux
The future trajectory of oil prices hinges largely on how the situation between Iran and Israel unfolds. While the easing of futures prices offers a glimmer of hope, the underlying risks remain. Oil traders must closely monitor developments in the region and adjust their strategies accordingly. Analysts remain divided, with some predicting further escalation and others hoping for a de-escalation. One thing is certain: the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of oil prices in the near future.
Oil Prices Surge on Rising Tensions in the Middle EastOil prices surged today, reaching their highest level since October 2023, amid heightened geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran. The increase comes as Israel braces for a potential retaliatory strike from Iran following a recent Israeli attack on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria.
This latest development adds another layer of uncertainty to the already volatile global oil market. Concerns about potential disruptions to oil supplies from the Middle East, a region that accounts for roughly one-third of the world's crude oil output, are driving prices higher.
Rising Tensions Fuel Oil Price Rally
News reports, citing sources familiar with the matter, suggest that Israel is preparing for a possible attack from Iran or its proxies in the coming days. This follows the Israeli airstrike on the Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria last week, which was widely seen as a significant escalation of tensions between the two nations.
The United States and its allies believe that a major missile attack by Iran is imminent. This perceived threat of a wider conflict in the Middle East has sent shockwaves through the oil market. Investors are concerned that any military confrontation could disrupt oil production and exports from the region, leading to a significant supply shortfall.
This perception of risk is reflected in the options market, where traders are actively buying call options – contracts that give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to purchase oil at a certain price by a certain date. The increased demand for call options suggests that many investors are anticipating a further rise in oil prices.
Analysts Weigh In: Bullish vs. Cautious
Analysts are divided on the potential impact of the current situation on oil prices. Some, like those at Commerzbank, believe that a direct confrontation between Israel and Iran would be a "game-changer" for the oil market, leading to a significant and sustained price increase.
Others, however, are taking a more cautious approach. The International Energy Agency (IEA) released its monthly report today, downgrading its outlook for global oil demand this year and next. The report cites the ongoing economic slowdown in China, the world's largest oil importer, as a key factor behind the downward revision.
Beyond the Middle East: Other Factors at Play
While the Israel-Iran tensions are currently the dominant factor driving oil prices higher, it's important to remember that other factors are also at play in the global oil market.
• Limited Spare Capacity: OPEC, the world's leading oil producer cartel, and its allies, known collectively as OPEC+, have limited spare production capacity. This means that if there is a disruption in oil supplies from the Middle East, it will be difficult to quickly replace the lost barrels.
• Geopolitical Risks Beyond the Middle East: Recent attacks on Russian energy infrastructure by Ukraine have also contributed to the overall sense of unease in the oil market.
• Post-Pandemic Recovery: The ongoing global economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic continues to drive up demand for oil, particularly in transportation sectors.
The Road Ahead: A Balancing Act
The future path of oil prices will depend on how the situation in the Middle East unfolds. If a wider conflict is averted, oil prices could moderate somewhat, especially if the IEA's concerns about slowing demand materialize.
However, if tensions escalate and there is a significant disruption to oil supplies from the Middle East, then a sustained price increase is highly likely. Additionally, how OPEC+ responds to the evolving situation will also be a key factor.
The cartel is currently scheduled to meet in May to discuss production quotas. If they decide to maintain their current production levels or even cut output, it could further tighten the market and push prices even higher.
Impact on Consumers and Businesses
Rising oil prices have a ripple effect throughout the global economy. Consumers are likely to see higher prices at the pump, as gasoline and diesel costs typically track the price of crude oil.
Businesses that rely heavily on oil and other energy sources will also face higher input costs, which could lead to higher prices for goods and services across the board. This could further dampen economic growth, especially in countries that are already grappling with high inflation.
Conclusion: A Volatile Market with High Stakes
The oil market is currently in a state of high uncertainty. The rising tensions in the Middle East are a significant risk factor, but they are not the only factor at play. The interplay of supply and demand dynamics, the actions of OPEC+, and the overall health of the global economy will all play a role in determining the future path of oil prices.
In the short term, oil prices are likely to remain volatile as investors grapple with the potential for a wider conflict in the Middle East. In the long term, the outlook for oil prices will depend on a complex mix of factors, making it difficult to predict with certainty where they will go from here.
Hedge Funds Go Long Oil as Middle East Tensions SimmerBuckle Up for Black Gold: Hedge Funds Go Long Oil as Middle East Tensions Simmer
Oil Bulls Charge as Geopolitical Heat Rises
The rumble of tanks in the Middle East is echoing through financial markets, with hedge funds piling into long positions on oil futures at a record pace. This aggressive bullish stance is a direct response to intensifying conflict in the region, a major source of the world's crude.
The So Long, So Short of It
The logic is simple: supply disruptions = higher prices. When tensions flare and the threat of production or export interruptions looms large, the perception of scarcity sends chills down the spines of oil-dependent economies. This fear translates into action, with buyers willing to pay a premium to secure reliable supplies, pushing prices upwards.
Hedge Funds See Green in the Black
Hedge funds, notorious for their high-risk, high-reward strategies, see this geopolitical instability as a golden opportunity. By taking long positions in oil futures contracts, they're essentially placing a hefty bet that oil prices will continue their upward trajectory. If their predictions hold true, they stand to reap significant profits.
Hold Onto Your Stetsons: Prices Could Go Wild
Should the situation in the Middle East escalate further, potentially leading to a disruption in oil production or exports, brace yourselves for a price surge. This scenario would be a boon for the long-oil hedge funds, but a major headache for consumers and businesses worldwide, as energy costs would skyrocket.
A Word to the Wise: Don't Get Bucked Off
The oil market is a complex beast, influenced by a multitude of factors beyond geopolitical tensions. A diplomatic breakthrough or the emergence of alternative sources of supply could cause prices to plummet. Before jumping on the long-oil bandwagon, investors should carefully consider their risk tolerance and conduct thorough research.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.