Oil prices edged higher on Monday as traders assessed ongoing geopolitical tensions and potential disruptions in global energy supply. The market remains under pressure, having posted its third consecutive weekly decline amid concerns over economic uncertainty and fluctuating demand.
Recent trade policy shifts have added to market volatility, with analysts noting that tariff-related headlines could continue influencing investor sentiment in the months ahead. Meanwhile, sanctions on key oil-producing nations have impacted supply routes, affecting exports to major consumers like China and India.
While oil prices face downward pressure, uncertainties around trade dynamics and supply constraints could drive short-term fluctuations, keeping traders cautious about future price movements.
Natural Gas (NG) is holding steady at $3.43, up 0.03%, as it consolidates above key support. The pivot point at $3.41 is acting as a critical level—holding above it keeps bullish momentum intact, while a breakdown could accelerate selling pressure.
The 50-day EMA at $3.31 and the 200-day EMA at $3.24 are both trending upward, reinforcing an overall bullish structure. Immediate resistance sits at $3.55, with the next major hurdle at $3.70. A breakout above these levels could spark further upside.
On the downside, $3.40 is the first safety net, followed by stronger support at $3.17. If bulls maintain control above the pivot, the upward trendline suggests continued strength, but a dip below could shift momentum in favor of sellers.
WTI crude (USOIL) is trading at $71.54, up 0.08%, as it hovers near resistance. The pivot point at $70.45 is the line in the sand—staying above this level keeps the bulls in charge, while a break below could invite fresh selling pressure.
The 50-day EMA at $72.23 is capping further gains, with stronger resistance ahead at $73.30 near the 200-day EMA at $73.09. A close above these levels would confirm an extended bullish move.
On the downside, support is seen at $69.14, with a deeper pullback possibly testing $68.00. The recent trendline breakout suggests momentum remains on the upside, but a decisive move above $71.81 is needed to reinforce bullish confidence.
Brent crude (UKOIL) is trading at $75.24, up 0.03%, as it stays above the $75.03 pivot point, keeping bullish momentum intact. The 50-day EMA at $75.65 is the immediate hurdle, with a break above this level opening the door for $76.18 and $77.20. A close beyond $76.33—the 200-day EMA—would confirm further upside potential.
On the downside, $74.08 serves as key support, with deeper retracement likely toward $73.27 if sellers take control.
However, the recent upward trendline breakout suggests buyers remain in charge, and as long as UKOIL holds above $75.03, the path of least resistance remains higher. Watch for a decisive move above $75.65 to strengthen bullish sentiment.
Arslan is a finance MBA and also holds an MPhil degree in behavioral finance. An expert in financial analysis and investor psychology, Arslan uses his academic background to bring valuable insights about market sentiment and whether instruments are likely to be overbought or oversold.