Oil futures fell Thursday morning, feeling pressure after the Financial Times reported that Saudi Arabia was ready to abandon its $100-a-barrel price target as it prepares to increase production in a bid to take back market share.
Oil prices were little changed on Thursday after falling in the previous session as signs of higher fuel demand and falling stockpiles in the U.S., the world's biggest oil user, offset concerns over demand elsewhere, particularly in China.
Gasoline inventories decreased by 1.5 million barrels, missing analyst expectations.
The crude oil market has fallen hard in the early hours of Wednesday, as the market continues to wait for the latest inventory numbers in the US, and of course we are looking at the anemic consumer confidence numbers in America suggesting that perhaps the demand might drop a bit.
Oil futures traded modestly lower early Wednesday, pulling back from strong gains seen the previous session amid a broad commodity rally sparked by China's announcement of an aggressive monetary stimulus plan.
Crude futures edge lower as China's stimulus fails to boost demand expectations. U.S. stockpile draws offer support, but traders brace for potential oil price corrections.
Rising geopolitical tensions and China's economic stimulus create supply concerns, driving potential price increases in energy markets.
Oil prices steadied on Wednesday after rising in the previous session on fading excitement for the economic stimulus in China, the world's biggest crude importer, though an industry report showing falling U.S. crude and fuel inventories supported the market.
Crude oil encountered resistance after a strong rally. Short-term momentum points to minor upside potential, but the longer-term outlook remains bearish due to a triangle breakdown.
Amrita Sen, Energy Aspects director of research, joins ‘The Exchange' to discuss oil pricing, energy market futures, and more.
The cartel said oil demand is forecast to reach 120.1 million barrels a day in 2050 from 102.2 million barrels a day last year.
OPEC raised its forecasts for world oil demand for the medium and long term in an annual outlook, citing growth led by India, Africa and the Middle East and a slower shift to electric vehicles and cleaner fuels.