U.S. natural gas futures pressured by mild weather, low Asian LNG prices, and a bearish outlook due to high storage and warmth.
U.S. natural gas futures opened lower this Monday, influenced by unchanged weekend weather forecasts predicting light national demand for the next 15 days. The market is seemingly losing patience, awaiting colder weather patterns which could drive demand.
Contributing to the downward trend, Asian spot liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices dropped to a 7-week low. Despite cold weather conditions, muted demand and easing global supply pressures, following recent maintenance and geopolitical tensions, have played a role. The average LNG price for January delivery in north-east Asia decreased by 6% to $15.7 per million British thermal units (mmBtu).
Across Asia and Europe, demand continues to be weak. This subdued industrial and weather-related demand does not encourage a bullish outlook for the winter season. Northeast Asian end-users, despite low night temperatures, are not actively engaging in the spot market, relying more on term supply or previously secured spot cargoes.
According to NatGasWeather, the U.S. will experience mild to slightly cool weather in the northern regions and dry, comfortable conditions in the south over the next week. This leads to expectations of light national demand. U.S. natural gas storage levels are about 7.2% above the norm for this time of year, with working gas storage at 3,836 Bcf, indicating sufficient supply.
The natural gas contract saw a 3% decline last week, continuing a downward trend for the fourth consecutive week. With record production and high storage levels, the futures market indicates a reduced likelihood of price spikes this winter. Futures prices for the upcoming years show a rising premium, suggesting long-term market concerns. The weather is expected to remain warmer than normal until mid-December, further influencing the bearish market sentiment.
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.