Oil Steadies as Soft Outlook Outweighs China Stimulus Optimism
Oil steadied as persistent concerns about a looming surplus overshadowed the outlook for bolder Chinese stimulus next year.
Brent futures traded below $72 a barrel, while holding most of the previous day’s gain. China’s decision-making Politburo vowed to embrace a “moderately loose” monetary policy, the most direct language on stimulus in years from the world’s biggest crude importer.
The oil market, however, is on track for a surplus next year, which has led OPEC+ to delay the return of idled production. Crude futures have been stuck in a tight range since mid-October, buffeted by a series of bearish and bullish factors including Middle East tensions.
“Further strength cannot be ruled out in the immediate future,” said Tamas Varga, an analyst at brokerage PVM. “Still, without a discernible improvement in the underlying oil balance, it will be a strenuous process to sustain the current rally.”
The collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s Syrian regime has left a power vacuum that could lead to more turmoil as factions fight for control. The market is watching for any spillover that could reverberate through the Middle East.
A report from China’s largest oil producer said the country’s consumption may peak next year — five years earlier than expected. Rapid adoption of new-energy vehicles and the use of liquefied natural gas to power trucks have chipped away at diesel and gasoline consumption, it said.
Brent for February settlement slipped 0.3% to $71.92 barrel by 1:42 p.m. in London. WTI for January delivery fell 0.3% to $68.19 a barrel.
Source : Bloomberg
