In a promising outlook for the global oil market, UBS strategists have forecasted a rally in oil prices, potentially breaching the $90 per barrel mark by the close of 2023. Presently, Brent International (BZ=F) prices linger just below the $85 per barrel threshold, while West Texas Intermediate (CL=F) maintains a position above $80 per barrel. The imminent surge in oil prices is underpinned by several factors including surging global oil demand projected to hit a historical peak in August, as well as indications of a reduced sense of “pessimism” surrounding the global economy.
Recent assessments from analysts at Goldman Sachs have reiterated their earlier projections of $93 per barrel for Brent crude and $86 per barrel for WTI by the culmination of December. This forecast is based on a perceived shift among traders away from negative growth predictions. Bolstered by this encouraging sentiment, UBS strategists anticipate a promising trajectory driven by constructive market fundamentals, including a noticeable decrease in oil inventories and restricted supply. These dynamics are envisioned to propel both the Brent and WTI benchmarks to $95 and $91 per barrel, respectively, by the conclusion of December.
However, amidst these auspicious prospects, concerns have arisen in the form of China’s economic landscape. China, the world’s second-largest consumer of crude oil, is currently grappling with uncertainty, thereby exerting pressure on crude futures. An unexpected decision by Beijing to reduce policy rates and withhold information regarding youth unemployment has triggered skepticism among investors regarding the efficacy of these stimulus measures. Despite this cloud of doubt, UBS strategists remain resolute in their belief that the recent slide in prices will prove transitory in light of the strong foundational factors the market has to offer.
To stimulate oil price stability on the market, the OPEC+ coalition has undertaken a series of production cuts since October of the preceding year. Saudi Arabia, a prominent member of OPEC+, recently extended its one million barrel-per-day output reduction plan until September. Similarly, Russia has announced its intent to significantly curtail oil exports. The effectiveness of these measures in shaping future oil prices hinges upon the capacity of the current market conditions to remain steady throughout the remaining duration of the year.
In conclusion, the global oil market is primed for a noteworthy resurgence, as predicted by UBS strategists. The trajectory appears favorable, with oil prices anticipated to surge beyond the $90 per barrel threshold by the conclusion of 2020. Encouraged by a combination of factors including heightened global oil demand, improving market sentiment, and strategic production cuts, industry analysts express optimism regarding the oil market’s performance in the forthcoming months. Nevertheless, uncertainties associated with China’s economic trajectory persist, casting a shadow over the otherwise promising outlook.
Source: Yahoo Finance
