U.S. natural gas futures are gaining ground as the market begins a new trading week. Prices are moving up after testing the minor pivot at $2.091, with bullish traders targeting the main top at $2.315.
At 13:29 GMT, Natural Gas Futures are trading $2.184, up $0.061 or +2.87%.
The previous week saw price swings due to changing weather forecasts and market sentiment. Prices initially rose but later retreated as traders collected profits and forecasts predicted milder weather. Currently, the market weighs bullish storage data against potential short-term demand decreases.
NatGasWeather reports “very warm to hot high pressure will rule much of the western, central and southern U.S.” this week, with highs from the upper 80s to 100s. This heat is expected to increase cooling demand, supporting natural gas use. However, recent predictions of cooler weather in the Northeast and Midwest have moderated demand expectations.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported an unusual midsummer storage withdrawal, the first in August since 2006. This reduction reflects higher cooling demand during high temperatures, indicating a tightening supply-demand balance. Furthermore, lower gas production levels, at 100.6 Bcf/d, have bolstered market support.
The natural gas market faces obstacles from reduced capital spending and ongoing international tensions. Less investment has slowed new project development, while conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to affect global supply chains. Europe’s growing reliance on U.S. LNG imports adds another layer to the market outlook.
The natural gas market shows a cautiously positive short-term outlook. The confirmation of a bullish reversal pattern and tightening supply suggest potential price increases. However, variable weather may restrict demand growth. Traders should watch the key support level at $2.091 and resistance at $2.315. A move above $2.315 could indicate a bullish trend, while falling below $2.091 might lead to retesting the recent low at $1.882.
As the week unfolds, savvy traders will keep a close watch on crucial price points. The $2.315 level remains a critical threshold; breaching it could spark a significant rally. Conversely, a drop below $2.091 might trigger a sell-off. With supply tightening and weather patterns in flux, the natural gas market promises an exciting week ahead for traders ready to capitalize on potential opportunities.
James is a Florida-based technical analyst, market researcher, educator and trader with 35+ years of experience. He is an expert in the area of patterns, price and time analysis as it applies to futures, Forex, and stocks.