BRENT Crude sideways consolidation continuesThe BRENT Crude (Brent Crude) price action sentiment appears bearish, supported by the longer-term prevailing downtrend.
The key trading level is at 7685, 20 Day Moving Average level. An oversold rally from the current levels and a bearish rejection from the 7685 level could target the downside support at 7400 followed by 7300 and 7225 levels over the longer timeframe.
Alternatively, a confirmed breakout above 7685 resistance and a daily close above that level would negate the bearish outlook opening the way for further rallies higher and a retest of 7780 resistance followed by 7840 levels.
This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as any form of recommendation as to a particular course of action or as investment advice. It is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction. Opinions, estimates and assumptions expressed herein are made as of the date of this communication and are subject to change without notice. This communication has been prepared based upon information, including market prices, data and other information, believed to be reliable; however, Trade Nation does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. All market prices and market data contained in or attached to this communication are indicative and subject to change without notice.
Brent
Brent Declines Amid Rising Inventories and Peace HopesOn February 13, 2025, Brent crude fell by 0.9% to $74.50 per barrel, driven by expectations of a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, which could ease supply disruptions caused by sanctions. Additionally, U.S. crude inventories increased for the third consecutive week by 4.1 million barrels, surpassing analysts' forecasts. These factors, combined with new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, have reinforced the bearish sentiment in the oil market.
OIL CallsThe market structure remains bullish as the Daily price broke the last swing high of $77.89 to make a new market top of $79.44.
Even though in the short term the price is retracing down to fill inefficiencies left by the last rally, we can expect a reversal of the trend at either $69 or $67 supply zones. In case of such reversal the price can with high probability retest the last swing high or the first supply zone which sits outside the current structure at $80.
On the other hand, if the price breaks below $66.80, it will signal the market is entering another bear run.
BRENT Crude The Week Ahead 17 Feb 25 The BRENT Crude (Brent Crude) price action sentiment appears bearish, supported by the longer-term prevailing downtrend.
The key trading level is at 7685, 20 Day Moving Average level. An oversold rally from the current levels and a bearish rejection from the 7685 level could target the downside support at 7400 followed by 7300 and 7225 levels over the longer timeframe.
Alternatively, a confirmed breakout above 7685 resistance and a daily close above that level would negate the bearish outlook opening the way for further rallies higher and a retest of 7780 resistance followed by 7840 levels.
This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as any form of recommendation as to a particular course of action or as investment advice. It is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction. Opinions, estimates and assumptions expressed herein are made as of the date of this communication and are subject to change without notice. This communication has been prepared based upon information, including market prices, data and other information, believed to be reliable; however, Trade Nation does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. All market prices and market data contained in or attached to this communication are indicative and subject to change without notice.
Weekly price prediction: $71.49 (Min) and $77.37 (Max).Projected Price Range
The anticipated weekly price range for Brent Crude Oil is expected to fluctuate between $71.49 (Min) and $77.37 (Max).
Contended Price Levels
$74.50 – Point of Control (POC) – potential support
$73.22 - $71.49 – High Volume Node (HVN) – potential support
$77.32 - $81.62 – Low Volume Node (LVN) – potential resistance
Technical Analysis
Fibonacci Retracement & Price Movement:
The price reached the 0.5 Fibonacci retracement level in mid-January before retracing.
This level has demonstrated consistent horizontal price movement over the past six months, indicating it as a key reference point.
Volume Profile Analysis:
High Volume Node (HVN): Found between $73.22 and $71.49, indicating strong liquidity and potential support.
Low Volume Node (LVN): Between $77.32 and $81.62, which could lead to rapid price spikes if the price enters this zone.
MACD and Stochastic RSI:
Stochastic RSI (Bottom Indicator): Has shown low bearish momentum over the last two weeks and appears poised for an upward crossover, signalling potential price growth.
MACD (Top Indicator): Remains in the negative region, with a few weeks left before a possible crossover, implying continued caution for bullish sentiment.
Additional Factors
Support & Resistance Considerations:
Point of Control (POC) and HVN are close to the current price, reinforcing these as key support zones.
The price is currently resting on a previous resistance level that has now turned into support.
The black rectangle above the price highlights the LVN region, where rapid price movements could occur.
The white rectangle represents a large support zone, which may contribute to horizontal price movement.
Geopolitical & Market Sentiment:
As always, geopolitical events could significantly impact price fluctuations, and traders should remain alert to any market-moving developments.
Conclusion
Brent Crude Oil prices for the upcoming week are likely to remain within the projected range, given the strong support levels in the current price zone. However, any breakout downward could be swift, while an upward breakout could be accelerated due to the LVN region.
BRENT - Intraday forecast, Technical Analysis & Trading IdeasMidterm forecast:
While the price is above the support 68.485, beginning of uptrend is expected.
We make sure when the resistance at 81.651 breaks.
If the support at 68.485 is broken, the short-term forecast -beginning of uptrend- will be invalid.
Technical analysis:
A peak is formed in daily chart at 81.735 on 01/15/2025, so more losses to support(s) 73.868, 71.698, 70.505 and minimum to Major Support (68.485) is expected.
Take Profits:
75.270
77.558
79.049
81.651
84.161
87.271
91.613
95.108
98.908
103.260
106.431
115.785
123.265
131.000
__________________________________________
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Crude OIL $UKOIL Classic patternI've seen this pattern many times over the last 5 years on different instruments, and its working out to over 50%
The essence of this pattern is a classic triangle with horizontal support, most of the participants realize that we will break down, but not everyone believes that we will take liquidity off the top before going down.
An instrument like oil is quite trivial and it can fall without taking liquidity off the top.
But I want to share a few examples of my theory working out, where the upper resistance line is broken before the drop-down
Best regards EXCAVO
The Inevitable Descent of UKOILIn the shadow of a market that continues to revel in its own delusions, I find myself compelled to address the elephant in the room – or rather, the oil in the barrel that is UKOIL. We stand on the precipice of what I predict to be a significant correction, one that will see UKOIL prices plummeting to the region of $48 per barrel.
Why the Fall?
OPEC+'s decision to phase out additional output cuts by September 2025, announced in June last year, is a clear signal. The return of 2.2 million barrels per day to the market, should market dynamics permit, will flood an already saturated market. Despite the rhetoric of control, the reality is that OPEC+'s spare capacity, currently at 5.9 million barrels per day, limits any significant price increase. This, coupled with near-record production levels from non-OPEC countries like the United States, sets the stage for an oversupply scenario. The notion that demand will continue to grow unchecked is flawed. Global oil consumption growth is expected to slow dramatically from 2.3 million barrels per day in 2023 to 1.1 million in 2024, with similar levels in 2025. This deceleration is driven by multiple factors including the rise of electric vehicles, increasing efficiency in traditional vehicles, and a stuttering economic recovery in major markets like China. The market's current bullishness is more sentiment than substance. Indicators like the Stoch RSI currently at 77.9 suggest we are nearing overbought territory, a strong indication that a reversal could be imminent. This high reading, combined with the parabolic SAR signaling an upward trend now, might just be the last gasp before a significant correction.
The technical and fundamental analyses converge on a bearish outlook. Long Forecast anticipates Brent oil, which closely tracks UKOIL, to hover around $60-$65 by 2026 before a potential rebound. This, combined with other forecasts suggesting a further decline in demand, paints a picture not of a soft landing, but of a sharp descent. If we extrapolate current trends and market sentiment shifts, $48 is not just a possibility but a probable near-term floor.
Investors should consider reducing exposure to oil-related equities or hedge against the risk through diversification into non-correlated assets. For those with the stomach for risk, this scenario presents a unique opportunity to short UKOIL CFDs. In closing, let us not be swayed by the siren song of current market highs. The fundamentals, much like gravity, will eventually pull prices back to earth. Prepare for the storm, for it's not a matter of if, but when.
Horban Brothers.
Alex Kostenich
WTI: Will oil return to the upward trajectory?!WTI oil is located between EMA200 and EMA50 on the 4-hour timeframe and is moving in its ascending channel. In case of a downward correction towards the demand zone, the next opportunity to buy oil with a suitable reward for risk will be provided to us. A valid breakdown of the drawn downtrend line and preservation of the channel will pave the way for oil to reach the drawn ranges.
Under the pressure of imminent sanctions planned by the Trump administration and the debts Iran now owes to China, the country has begun offloading crude oil that had been stored in Chinese warehouses for years. This oil, shipped to China between 2018 and 2019 but not officially declared in Chinese customs records, was kept in isolated, pre-designated storage facilities. With storage costs reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, Iran is now obligated to cover these expenses. So far, 5.4 million barrels of oil have been removed from a Chinese port, transported by a total of four tankers.
According to a Bloomberg report, OPEC+ is likely to maintain its current supply policy in its meeting next week. This decision contradicts the request of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged oil producers to increase output to lower prices and exert more economic pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine. Under the current plan, oil supply restrictions will remain in place for this quarter and will gradually ease starting in April.
Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order to initiate the development of a “next-generation” missile defense system in the United States. This system, modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome, is designed to protect the U.S. from ballistic missile attacks, hypersonic missiles, advanced cruise missiles, and other modern aerial threats.
According to the released information, the executive order aims to establish an advanced space-based missile defense system capable of detecting and neutralizing missiles launched toward the U.S. Conceptually, this resembles Israel’s Iron Dome, which has been used for years to intercept and destroy rockets fired from Gaza. The U.S.government has already invested billions of dollars in developing Israel’s Iron Dome, and the American military possesses its own missile defense systems.
The order describes missile attacks as a “catastrophic threat,” but no details have been provided regarding the project’s costs or timeline. Developing a comprehensive missile defense system for a country as geographically vast as the U.S. is a highly complex and costly endeavor. Additionally, the emergence of next-generation missile threats, such as hypersonic missiles that travel at extremely high speeds, presents significant technical challenges. This indicates that the project will require substantial investment and time for completion.
Brent - What will Trump's oil policies be?!Brent oil is in the 4-hour timeframe, between EMA200 and EMA50 and is moving in its medium-term ascending channel. We will look for oil selling opportunities on the supply zone. If the $75 level is broken, we can see the continuation of the downtrend. On the other hand, we can buy in the demand zone with a risk-reward approach.
When Donald Trump launched his election campaign, he threatened to impose 25% tariffs on America’s largest trading partners unless they addressed their trade surpluses with the U.S. Analysts described this idea as risky. However, Bloomberg has reported that, while this strategy is far from subtle, it has proven effective.
This threat turned importers into U.S. customers. Energy importers from Asian countries began purchasing more crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States, aiming to appease Trump before he took any action on tariffs.
Saul Kavonic, an energy analyst at MST Marquee, told Bloomberg that U.S. trading partners view LNG purchases as a tool for negotiating tariffs with the Trump administration. He added that since last November’s election, orders for U.S. energy shipments have risen.
Shortly after the election, Trump specifically suggested that the European Union should buy more LNG from the U.S. to offset its significant trade surplus. At the time, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated there was no reason why the EU couldn’t replace Russian LNG with American liquefied gas. However, her statement was perhaps not the most well-considered.
The EU’s preference for Russian LNG and its hesitation toward American LNG primarily stems from pricing issues. Even this year, the region’s purchases of Russian LNG have reached record levels. As reported by the Financial Times earlier this week, the EU is highly sensitive to price considerations. According to an EU official, price remains a critical and determining factor.
Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s trade committee, previously remarked that Europe’s demand for LNG could align with America’s eagerness to sell more.He added that discussions on this issue are feasible. Trump has consistently emphasized his interest in deals that benefit the United States above all.
On his first day in office, Trump revoked Biden’s executive order that halted permits for new LNG export capacity. This decision will expand U.S. export capacity over the next four years, potentially lowering prices depending on demand levels.
The World Trade Organization’s chief warned that reciprocal tariff retaliation could result in a double-digit reduction in global GDP, a scenario that would have catastrophic consequences.
WTI - The fate of oil with Trump's policies?!WTI oil is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4-hour time frame and is moving in its upward channel. In case of a downward correction towards the demand zone, the next opportunity to buy oil with a suitable risk reward will be provided for us.
The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) has stated that China’s crude oil production is expected to increase by 1% by 2025, reaching 215 million tons. Additionally, China’s crude oil imports are projected to grow by 1%, reaching 559 million tons.
The CEO of Aramco has noted that robust demand from China will continue to drive global oil demand growth. He predicts that oil demand will rise by 1.3 million barrels per day in 2025.
Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has directed his administration to revoke the “Executive Order on Electric Vehicles.” This move aims to roll back regulations on vehicle emissions and fuel efficiency standards, which he claims unfairly restrict consumer choice.
This directive, part of a broader executive order focused on energy, also calls on regulators to consider “eliminating unfair subsidies and other misguided government interventions that favor electric vehicles over other technologies and effectively mandate their purchase.”
On Monday, President Trump signed several energy-related executive orders, declaring a “National Energy Emergency” and launching measures heavily favoring fossil fuel development and production. These actions are seen as a blow to the energy policies of the previous administration under Joe Biden, which aimed to bolster the renewable energy sector. The new executive orders focus on boosting domestic energy production and lowering consumer costs.
In December, energy prices rose, contributing to overall inflation. Key drivers of the fuel price increases included:
• Colder-than-expected winter weather,
• Supply concerns driven by sanctions and geopolitical conflicts,
• Optimism about demand stimulation from China.
Pilot Company, owned by Berkshire Hathaway, has decided to cease its international oil and fuel trading operations. This decision comes after months of restructuring and the dismissal of many traders.
The President of the Petroleum Association of Japan has stated that despite Trump’s policies, uncertainty remains regarding increased oil and LNG production by U.S. energy developers. He also noted that there is little likelihood of an immediate increase in oil imports from the U.S., as Japan prefers to maintain a stable supply of crude oil from the Middle East, which is more compatible with Japanese refineries.
Brent - Peace returned to the Middle East?!Brent oil is above EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4-hour time frame and is moving in its upward channel. On the ceiling of the ascending channel, we will look for oil selling positions. In case of a valid break of the $80 range, we can see the continuation of the downward trend. On the other hand, within the demand zone, we can buy with a suitable risk reward.
Brent crude oil prices have surpassed $80 per barrel. This price increase continues to be supported by declining U.S. crude oil inventories and uncertainties surrounding Russian oil supplies following new U.S. sanctions.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has stated that the latest U.S. sanctions have the potential to significantly disrupt Russia’s energy exports. These sanctions have blacklisted over one-fifth of the tanker fleet transporting Russian oil. Last week, 160 sanctioned tankers transported over 1.6 million barrels per day of Russian oil in 2024, accounting for approximately 22% of the country’s maritime exports. However, the IEA has maintained its current outlook on Russia’s oil supply and will update it based on future developments.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement, though Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office stated that details are yet to be finalized. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for his role in the Gaza agreement and announced plans to meet him in Washington soon. Netanyahu also expressed gratitude to U.S. President Joe Biden for aiding in the hostage agreement. A senior Hamas official confirmed the group’s commitment to the ceasefire proposed by mediators.
In the oil market, attention remains focused on uncertainties surrounding Russian oil supply after the announcement of stricter U.S. sanctions. Additionally, declining U.S. crude oil inventories provide further support for prices. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. commercial crude oil inventories fell by 1.96 million barrels last week to under 413 million barrels, the lowest level since March 2022. This decline was primarily due to a decrease in crude oil imports by 304,000 barrels per day and an increase in exports by 1 million barrels per day. In refined products, despite a 1.6% drop in refinery utilization, gasoline and distillate inventories rose by 5.85 million barrels and 3.08 million barrels, respectively.
The Colonial Pipeline, which transports about 1.5 million barrels per day of gasoline from the U.S. Gulf Coast to the East Coast, is expected to remain closed until Friday following a leak earlier this week. This has provided limited upward support to gasoline prices.
The IEA and OPEC have both released their monthly oil market reports. The IEA warned that new U.S. sanctions on Russia’s energy sector could lead to supply disruptions. Additionally, the agency revised its global oil demand growth forecast upward due to colder weather in the Northern Hemisphere. The IEA estimates that global oil demand in 2024 will increase by 940,000 barrels per day, 90,000 barrels per day higher than the previous estimate. For 2025, demand is expected to grow by 1.05 million barrels per day.
OPEC, in its monthly report, maintained its 2025 oil demand growth estimate at 1.45 million barrels per day. For 2026, the group’s initial forecast predicts an increase of 1.43 million barrels per day. OPEC also kept its 2025 supply growth estimate for non-OPEC+ countries unchanged at 1.11 million barrels per day and expects a similar increase for 2026. OPEC’s production in December rose slightly to 26.74 million barrels per day, while overall OPEC+ output fell by 14,000 barrels per day to 40.65 million barrels per day due to reduced production in Kazakhstan. OPEC data indicates that demand for OPEC+ crude in 2025 will reach 42.5 million barrels per day and rise to 42.7 million barrels per day in 2026.
Iraq’s Oil Minister Hayan Abdul-Ghani told Reuters that Iraq plans to sign a major oil and gas deal in Kirkuk with BP by early February. He noted that this deal will surpass the scale of the major 2023 agreement with TotalEnergies.
Crude OIL Follow the plan Oil is one of the main tools that pressure the global economy. This tool is manually controlled; I will not repeat who owns it.
For the last 10 years, I have seen this pattern very often when we see a triangle that breaks down, but before it collects liquidity from above and breaks the upper resistance
I talked about it in a previous post
The idea is still the same; the timings are stretched longer.
I intend to pick up a historical start this year, most likely at the end of the year.
That's my lazy plan.
The realization is more complicated because opening a position at the ideal entry point will be challenging. All shorts will be liquidated and stop out for a long time, so we will probably have to stand in the reversal formation phase for a long time.
I could go on and on about politics and how it's explained to you on TV. But I don't do that.
Best regards EXCAVO
Will US sanctions on the Russian oil industry continue to drive
Oil prices surged to their highest point in five months following the US announcement of its intention to impose stricter sanctions on Russia's oil industry. Countries like China and India, previously reliant on Russian crude oil imports, are actively pursuing new sources of oil supply in the Middle East and Africa. Furthermore, the substantial surge in demand for heating oil, driven by the cold spell sweeping across the US and Europe, is likely to exert consistent upward pressure on oil prices.
USOIL sustains an uptrend and continues to test 77.00. Both EMAs are widening the gap and showing strong bullish momentum. If USOIL breaches above the current high of 77.80, the price could gain upward momentum toward 79.80. Conversely, if USOIL breaks below its support at 74.30 and EMA21, the price may fall further to its following support at 72.00.
Bullish Opportunity in Brent! Triple Bottom AheadHi, traders! 👏Welcome back to another technical analysis. Today, we are reviewing Brent Crude Oil on the 4-hour timeframe, and let me tell you: there is a very interesting pattern that could bring a great bullish opportunity!
First, I want you to look at this Triple Bottom pattern I’ve marked on the chart. We have three key points:
Bottom 1, Bottom 2, and Bottom 3, which form solid support around $71.535.
This pattern often indicates a potential trend reversal, and that's why I'm projecting an interesting bullish move.
Now, let's analyze the key levels:
1️⃣ Main resistance at $77.435: This level is critical. If the price manages to break through it, we can expect momentum towards my target, which I’ve marked at $80.159.
2️⃣ Intermediate support at $74.795: This is a reference level in case there are smaller pullbacks before continuing upwards.
3️⃣ Strong support at $71.535: We've already seen how the price reacted strongly in this zone, which validates its importance as solid support.
Additionally, if we look at the RSI, we see that it’s near the 65 zone but not yet overbought. This indicates there’s still room for a bullish move before potential exhaustion.
What am I waiting for? If the price breaks the $77.435, my Buy Limit🚀 is ready to go. I have a stop loss in place and am targeting the level at $81.021, a zone with good profit potential.
⚠️Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any trading decisions.
Brent Crude Oil Hits 2.5-Month High in Early 2025Brent Crude Oil Hits 2.5-Month High in Early 2025
The XBR/USD chart shows a strong rally in Brent crude oil prices on January 2–3, breaking above $76.20 for the first time since mid-October.
According to Reuters, this surge was driven by:
- Economic stimulus measures in China, including wage increases for public servants and a significant boost in funding through treasury bonds.
- Forecasts of a colder winter in the US and Europe, potentially increasing demand for oil products.
According to technical analysis of the XBR/USD chart, the price broke out of a consolidation pattern (highlighted in blue) that had confined it in late 2024.
However, signs of waning bullish momentum are emerging:
- At point B, the price only slightly surpassed the previous high at point A before reversing downward, indicating buyer weakness.
- A bearish divergence is forming between the RSI indicator and points A and B.
These signals suggest that Brent crude oil prices could be vulnerable to a correction, potentially targeting the lower blue trendline as a support level.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
WTI - 2025 Q1 Forecast - Technical Analysis & Trading Ideas!💡 Midterm forecast: (Daily Time-frame)
While the price is above the support 64.00, resumption of uptrend is expected.
Technical analysis:
A trough is formed in daily chart at 66.51 on 11/18/2024, so more gains to resistance(s) 75.44 and maximum to Major Resistance (77.92) is expected.
Take Profits:
68.80
72.27
75.44
77.92
80.10
83.96
87.00
93.80
100.80
109.19
126.35
💡 Short Term forecast: (H4 Time-frame):
The bullish wave is expected to continue as long as the price is above the strong Support at 70.53
Forecast:
1- Correction wave toward the Buy Zone
2- Another Upward Impulse wave toward Higher TPs
SL: Below 70.53
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Brent - good start of oil in the new year!Brent oil is above EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4-hour time frame and is moving in its upward channel. On the ceiling of the ascending channel, we will look for oil selling positions. In case of a valid break of the $75 range, we can see the continuation of the downward trend. On the other hand, within the demand zone, we can buy with a suitable risk reward.
Over the past three months, the Brent crude oil market has emerged as the largest commodity market in the world, with a daily trading volume of $75.2 billion. The credit rating agency Fitch has stated that geopolitical tensions may increase volatility in the global oil and gas sector. The agency expects global oil demand in 2025 to grow at a similar pace to 2024, although this growth is likely to be slower than in 2022 and 2023.
President Joe Biden is reportedly planning to impose a 20-year ban on leasing public lands for oil and gas exploration in Nevada. According to Fox News, this move is being considered in the final weeks of Biden’s presidency, just ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration. This prohibition would prevent companies from leasing federal lands in the region for oil and gas exploration or extraction activities.
As reported by Axios, Biden has been reviewing potential options for a military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. This action would only be considered if Iran takes significant steps toward building nuclear weapons before January 20. Reports indicate that Iran has enriched uranium to 60%, which is close to the 90% threshold required for weapons-grade material. Additionally, advancements in Iran’s centrifuge technology suggest the country could achieve this level within a matter of days.
However, reports also caution that developing a nuclear warhead would still require at least one year. These assessments come as Biden approaches the end of his term and Donald Trump prepares to assume the presidency.
Trump’s approach to Iran and its nuclear program is a topic of great interest, given his record during his first term. Previously, Trump adopted a “maximum pressure” strategy against Iran and withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The question now arises whether he will pursue a similar course of action or take a different approach in his new administration.
WTI - the fate of oil next year!WTI oil is above the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4-hour timeframe and is moving in its ascending channel. In case of a downward correction towards the zone, the next purchase of oil will be offered with a reward suitable for us.
Analysts believe that the global oil market will be well-supplied in the coming year due to increased oil production from non-OPEC+ countries and limited growth in global oil demand. Despite uncertainties surrounding 2025, experts maintain a cautious outlook on crude oil prices.
By the end of 2024, investment banks projected that oil prices in 2025 would remain around $70 per barrel of Brent.
However, the potential escalation of trade tensions poses a downside risk to prices.
Market observers are aware that oil price forecasts are often inaccurate. Yet, considering current fundamentals and geopolitical developments, experts generally hold a more negative than positive view on oil prices for the next year.
Most analysts and investment banks anticipate a supply surplus in the oil market for 2025, even if OPEC+ adheres to its current plan to reduce production starting in April 2025.
In December, OPEC+ announced a delay in its planned 2.2 million barrels per day production cut from January to April 2025. Additionally, the group extended the timeline for fully reversing these cuts to September 2026.
According to investment banks, while OPEC+’s decision may reduce the anticipated surplus, the market will still experience oversupply.
ING commodity strategists Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey noted in a recent report: “For now, we forecast the oil market to face a surplus next year, although much will depend on OPEC+’s production policies.”
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has long predicted a significant supply surplus in 2025. In its monthly report, the IEA stated that even if OPEC+ maintains its current production levels throughout 2025, there would still be a daily surplus of 950,000 barrels. If OPEC+ halts voluntary production cuts at the end of March 2025, this surplus could rise to 1.4 million barrels per day.
The IEA also forecasts that global oil demand will increase by 1.1 million barrels per day next year. However, this growth will not be sufficient to absorb the additional supply from non-OPEC+ producers, primarily the U.S., Brazil, and Guyana.
Additionally, weak consumption data from China indicates that demand this year has been below initial projections. OPEC has also reduced its oil demand growth forecasts for 2024 for five consecutive months.
In its December Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that if OPEC+ implements its recent production cut decisions, global oil inventories would rise by an average of 100,000 barrels per day starting in the second quarter of next year.
The EIA further predicted that this inventory increase would exert downward pressure on crude oil prices by late 2025, with Brent prices declining from an average of $74 per barrel in Q1 2025 to $72 per barrel in Q4 2025.
The agency estimates that the average annual Brent oil price in 2025 will be $74 per barrel, down from this year’s average of $80 per barrel. Recent surveys also reflect this trend, as analysts have lowered their oil price forecasts due to weak demand and robust supply growth.
Some experts argue that stricter U.S. sanctions on Iran and heightened geopolitical tensions might support prices early next year. However, overall weak demand forecasts are expected to exert significant downward pressure on oil prices.
China’s accommodative monetary policy could boost its economy and oil demand, but President-elect Trump’s promise to increase tariffs on China poses risks to economic growth, trade, and oil demand. Saxo Bank recently stated that China’s latest economic stimulus measures and the likelihood of further monetary easing could offset the impact of U.S. tariffs in 2025, signaling Beijing’s determination to prevent a severe economic downturn.
What Is the Difference Between Brent and WTI Crude OilWhat Is the Difference Between Brent and WTI Crude Oil for Traders?
Brent Crude and WTI are two of the most important oil benchmarks in the world, influencing global markets and trading strategies. While both represent high-quality crude, they differ in origin, composition, pricing, and market dynamics. This article explores questions like “What is Brent Crude?”, “What is WTI Crude?”, and “What is the difference between Brent and crude oil from West Texas?”, helping traders navigate their unique characteristics.
Brent Oil vs Crude Oil from West Texas
Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) are two primary benchmarks in the global oil market, each representing distinct qualities and origins.
What Is Brent Crude Oil?
Brent Crude originates from the North Sea, encompassing oil from fields between the United Kingdom and Norway, like Brent, Forties, Oseberg, Ekofisk, and Troll. This region's offshore production benefits from direct access to sea routes, facilitating efficient transportation to international markets. The North Sea's strategic location allows Brent Crude to serve as a global pricing benchmark and influence oil prices worldwide.
This blend is slightly heavier and contains more sulphur compared to WTI. Despite this, Brent Crude is extensively traded and serves as a pricing reference for about two-thirds of the world's oil contracts, primarily on the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE).
What Is WTI Crude Oil?
West Texas Intermediate is primarily sourced from US oil fields in Texas, North Dakota, and Louisiana. The landlocked nature of these production sites means that WTI relies heavily on an extensive network of pipelines and storage facilities for distribution. A key hub for WTI is Cushing, Oklahoma, which serves as a central point for oil storage and pricing. This infrastructure supports WTI's role as a benchmark for US oil prices.
Known for its lightness and low sulphur content, West Texas Crude is ideal for refining into gasoline and other high-demand products. WTI serves as a major benchmark for oil prices in the United States and is the underlying commodity for the New York Mercantile Exchange's (NYMEX) oil futures contract.
Brent and WTI Crude Oil CFDs
Most retail traders interact with Brent and WTI through Contracts for Difference (CFDs) instead of futures contracts. CFDs enable traders to speculate on price fluctuations without having to own the underlying physical oil. Instead, they open buy and sell positions and take advantage of the difference in the price from the time the contract is opened to when it’s closed.
This makes CFDs a popular choice for retail traders looking to make the most of short-term price fluctuations in oil without the complexities of physical ownership, storage, or delivery. CFDs also offer leverage, allowing traders to control larger positions with smaller capital.
You can trade Brent and WTI crude oil at FXOpen with tight spreads and low commissions! Check the recent oil prices at the TickTrader trading platform.
Quality and Composition Differences
Brent Crude is classified as a light, sweet crude oil. It has an API gravity of approximately 38 degrees, indicating a relatively low density. Its sulphur content is about 0.37%, making it less sweet compared to WTI. Brent's composition is well-suited for refining into diesel fuel and gasoline, which are in high demand globally.
But what is WTI like? Known for its superior quality, WTI boasts an API gravity of around 39.6 degrees, making it lighter than Brent. Its sulphur content is approximately 0.24%, classifying it as a sweeter crude. This lower sulphur content simplifies the refining process, allowing for the production of higher yields of gasoline and other high-value products.
These differences in API gravity and sulphur content are significant for refiners. Lighter, sweeter crudes like WTI are generally more desirable because they require less processing to meet environmental standards and produce a higher proportion of valuable end products. However, the choice between Brent and WTI can also depend on regional availability, refinery configurations, and specific product demand.
Trading Volumes and Market Liquidity
Brent Crude and WTI both see significant trading volumes, but they differ in terms of their market liquidity and global reach.
As mentioned above, Brent Crude is widely traded on international markets, and it serves as the pricing benchmark for roughly two-thirds of the world's oil contracts. Its broad appeal comes from being a global benchmark, which makes it highly liquid in global exchanges like ICE Futures Europe.
This high liquidity means traders can buy and sell contracts with relative ease, often with tighter spreads. As a result, it’s popular among traders looking for high-volume, internationally-influenced oil exposure.
On the other hand, WTI is primarily traded in the US through exchanges like the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange). While still highly liquid, WTI's trading volumes tend to be more concentrated within the US market.
Despite this, it remains a crucial benchmark, especially for traders focusing on the US oil industry. Its close ties to the domestic market mean liquidity can be slightly more affected by US-specific factors.
Pricing Influences and Differences Between Brent and WTI
The geographic focus and market influence distinguish WTI Crude vs Brent oil. Brent is a globally traded benchmark, making it more reactive to international forces, while WTI’s market is more US-centric, with pricing heavily influenced by domestic factors and energy dynamics.
Therefore, Brent Crude and WTI often trade at different prices, with Brent Crude typically priced higher. This price difference, known as the Brent-WTI spread, reflects the varying dynamics between global and US markets. Traders keep a close eye on this spread, as it signals the relative strength of international versus US oil markets.
Price Influences for Brent Crude
- Geopolitical events: Brent is highly sensitive to tensions or conflicts in major oil-producing regions like the Middle East and North Africa. Any disruptions to supply routes or production in these areas can cause its prices to spike.
- OPEC+ decisions: Since many OPEC+ members produce oil that influences Brent’s pricing, their decisions on production cuts or increases have a direct impact on its price. A reduction in global output typically raises prices.
- Global shipping and transport logistics: Brent is traded internationally, so shipping costs, potential blockages in transport routes (e.g., the Strait of Hormuz), and other logistics play a role in price movements.
- Global energy demand: Trends in global demand, especially from key regions like Europe and Asia, affect pricing. For instance, economic growth in these regions tends to push prices higher.
Price Influences for WTI
- US shale oil production: WTI is highly responsive to the levels of US shale oil output. When production surges, oversupply can put downward pressure on prices.
- US oil inventory levels: Key storage hubs like Cushing, Oklahoma, are crucial for pricing. Rising inventory levels signal oversupply, which typically lowers prices, while declining inventories may indicate higher demand and push prices up.
- Pipeline and transportation infrastructure: Bottlenecks in US oil pipelines or delays in transportation can influence WTI pricing. For instance, limited capacity in pipelines can restrict oil flow to refineries, leading to fluctuations in prices.
- Domestic energy policies: Government regulations, taxes, or subsidies affecting US energy production can impact prices, with changes in drilling activity or environmental policies influencing supply levels.
Which Oil Should Traders Choose?
When deciding between WTI vs Brent, traders consider their market focus, trading strategy, and the factors driving each benchmark. Here’s an overview of what might help you choose:
1. Geopolitical Focus
- Brent Crude is more sensitive to global geopolitical events, making it a strong choice for traders who focus on international markets. If you analyse global tensions, OPEC+ decisions, or international energy policies, Brent is likely more relevant.
- WTI is less influenced by global events and more driven by US domestic factors. Traders focused on US politics, infrastructure, and energy policies may find WTI a better fit.
2. Market Liquidity and Trading Volume
- Brent Crude is widely traded across global exchanges, giving it strong liquidity. It’s ideal for traders who prefer access to international markets and global trading volumes. Its liquidity also makes it attractive for those trading larger volumes or seeking tighter spreads.
- WTI has high liquidity as well, but it’s more concentrated in US markets. This makes it better suited for traders with a specific interest in US oil dynamics.
3. Price Volatility
- Brent Crude tends to react more to geopolitical shocks, meaning it can experience more volatility from global crises. Traders looking for opportunities driven by international supply disruptions or geopolitical risks might prefer Brent.
- WTI is typically influenced by domestic production and inventory levels, which can result in different volatility patterns. US-focused traders or those tracking domestic shale oil production often gravitate toward WTI for its more region-specific volatility.
4. Regional Focus
- Brent Crude is favoured by traders who have a global outlook or trade oil products tied to European, Asian, or African markets.
- WTI is a solid choice for traders interested in US oil markets or those who rely on data from domestic US reports like the EIA.
The Bottom Line
In summary, understanding the differences between Brent Crude and WTI is crucial for traders analysing global oil markets. Both benchmarks offer unique opportunities depending on your trading strategy and market focus, whether you prefer the global influence of Brent or the US-centric dynamics of WTI. To get started with Brent and WTI CFDs, consider opening an FXOpen account for access to these key markets alongside low-cost trading conditions.
FAQ
Why Is Oil Called Brent Crude?
Brent Crude gets its name from the Brent oil field located in the North Sea, discovered by Shell in the 1970s. The name "Brent" was derived from a naming convention based on birds—specifically, the Brent goose. Over time, it’s become the benchmark for oil produced in the North Sea, now serving as a global pricing standard for much of the world's oil supply.
What Does WTI Stand For?
WTI stands for West Texas Intermediate. It refers to a grade of crude oil that is primarily produced in the United States, specifically from oil fields in Texas, North Dakota, and surrounding regions. WTI is one of the key benchmarks for oil pricing, particularly in North America.
Is Brent Crude Sweet or Sour?
Brent Crude is considered a light, sweet crude oil. It has a low sulphur content, making it easier to refine into high-value products like gasoline and diesel. However, it contains slightly more sulphur than WTI, which is why it's marginally classified as less sweet.
Why Is Brent Always More Expensive Than WTI?
Brent is often more expensive than WTI due to its global demand and greater sensitivity to geopolitical risks. Brent is influenced by international factors, including OPEC+ decisions and conflicts in key oil-producing regions, which often lead to supply disruptions. WTI, meanwhile, is more affected by domestic US supply and demand.
Is Saudi Oil Brent or WTI?
Saudi oil is neither Brent nor WTI. It falls under its own classification, primarily as Arabian Light Crude. However, Brent Crude is often used as a pricing benchmark for oil exports from Saudi Arabia and other OPEC nations.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
USOIL Best Level to Short/Hold 10% swing trade setup🔸Hey guys, today let's review the 2 hour chart for US oil . Any upside is
limited by strong overhead resistances, currently trading near range highs
so overall risk/reward shifting in bears favor.
🔸Strong resistances will cap upside at 72.00 usd / 72.50 usd. right now
locked in tight trading range, however expecting final pump to trigger overhead stop losses before reversal and subsequent sell off event.
🔸Recommended strategy for BEARS: wait for the final pump before short selling from strong overhead resistances at 72.00 and 72.50 SL fixes at 74.00 usd, TP1 bears is 68 usd TP2 bears is 66 usd. swing trade setup, patience required. good luck!
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