The oil-producing Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies could extend existing output cuts this week, delegates and analysts tell CNBC, even as focus shifts from Middle East tensions to summer demand.
Four OPEC+ delegates, who spoke anonymously because of the sensitivity of talks, told CNBC the 2.2 million-barrels-per-day supply reductions will likely be prolonged, with one noting that the alliance would avoid shifting approach at a time when oil prices are relatively stable.
ncreased geopolitical risk in oil-producing regions is seen as a key driver of higher oil prices.
Tighter markets due to OPEC+ cuts and Russia’s export limitations are putting upward pressure on prices.
In an increasingly bullish oil market, Morgan Stanley sees Brent Crude hitting $94 per barrel in the third quarter of 2024.
OPEC+ faces record-breaking U.S. oil production and rising supply from other non-OPEC+ producers, including Brazil, Guyana, Canada, and Norway.
Barring a major geopolitical escalation resulting in a large supply outage, oil prices are unlikely to reach $100 a barrel in 2024.
Paul Sankey: Record-high U.S. oil production is a “huge problem” for OPEC+
Part of the reason oil prices went lower rather than higher last week despite the OPEC+ announcement was the suspicion that some of the cuts will remain so only on paper.