Oil Price Forecast: Prices Stable Amid OPEC+ Cuts but Concerns Persist as US Economy Slows

Oil Highlights

• WTI crude oil maintains stability as the US Dollar weakens
• OPEC+ cuts and US strategic reserves purchases support steady oil prices
• Worries about US slowdown, China reopening impact market sentiment

Oil Overview

On Monday, the US benchmark WTI crude oil remained steady-to-better after bouncing back from an earlier decline. This can be attributed to a small decrease in the value of the US Dollar, suggesting the potential for increased purchases from foreign buyers.

At 11:04 GMT, WTI Oil is trading $70.24, up $0.18 or +0.26%. On Friday, the United States Oil Fund ETF (USO) settled at $62.04, down $1.21 or -1.91%.

Steady Oil Prices Amid Supply Concerns

Oil prices remained steady on Monday due to positive market sentiment resulting from reduced oil supplies due to OPEC+ cuts and the US resuming purchases for strategic reserves. However, concerns about fuel demand from the United States and China persist.

Prices Decline Amid Economic Concerns

Both benchmark crude oil prices experienced a fourth consecutive week of decline, driven by worries about a potential economic downturn in the US due to the risk of a significant default in June. The reopening process in China and the US’s economic growth slowdown also contribute to lukewarm market sentiment.

Possible Tightening of Global Oil Supplies

Nevertheless, there is a possibility of global crude oil supplies tightening in the second half of the year as OPEC+ implements additional production cuts, particularly targeting sour crude oil. Iraq does not expect further cuts during the next OPEC+ meeting.

US Considers Restocking Petroleum Reserve

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm mentioned the US’s consideration of repurchasing oil for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve after completing a mandated sale.

G7 Targets Russia’s Energy Production

Furthermore, the G7 leaders may announce new measures during their meetings to address sanctions evasion involving third countries. These measures aim to hinder Russia’s energy production and restrict trade supporting the Russian military.

Technical Analysis

WTI Oil is trading on the weakside of $72.57 (S1), making it new resistance. A sustained move under this level will indicate the selling pressure is getting stronger. If this creates enough downside momentum then look for the selling to possibly extend into $68.49 (S2) over the near-term.

Overtaking, $72.57 (S1) will signal the return of buyers. If this move can generate enough upside momentum then look for the market to evenually reach the major pivot at $78.02.

Resistance & Support Levels