Speakers:

Natasha Kaneva, Head of Global Commodities and Oil Research

The market’s verdict on the OPEC+ decision was likely behind the 6% fall in oil prices this week. The producers’ group extended its 3.6 mbd of supply reductions through 2025, but it also announced plans to gradually unwind 2.2 mbd of voluntary cuts starting in October, subject to market conditions. On paper, this additional production would clearly be bearish for prices. However, there are important details that need to be taken into account. For one, a number of key OPEC producers are already pumping well above their assigned quotas. Second, many OPEC producers are already operating at close to full capacity. We maintain our view that summer inventory draws should be enough to get Brent back into the high $80s-$90 range by September, but are aware that OPEC+’s intention—even if aspirational—to produce more, might have a psychological effect on consumers’ willingness to replenish inventories.

This podcast was recorded on 7 June 2024.