Learn more about Hart Energy Conferences
Get our latest conference schedules, updates and insights straight to your inbox.
In the week since our last edition of What’s Affecting Oil Prices, Brent fell $2.50/bbl last week to average $74.89, right in line with our expectations. WTI fell $2.40/bbl to average $65.07.
While current price levels are much more reasonable, we think a hard floor should exist at $70/bbl. While supply concerns have been somewhat alleviated, there is still risk in the markets and fears of a demand slowdown may be overblown. Recent news indicates that there might be some progress on the trade war front with rumors that both sides have been negotiating a resolution. However, nothing official has been announced and this is likely just optimistic messaging in advance of Tuesday’s midterm elections.
We expect Brent to average $73/bbl this week. The implementation of Iran sanctions is unlikely to add significant value to prices, especially with waivers approved for eight countries/territories that have significantly reduced imports. White House administration officials have refused to name the eight jurisdictions being granted an exemption but China, Japan, India and South Korea are expected to be among them.
Recommended Reading
Gushing, Ohio: EOG Joins Ascent, Encino in Top Oil Wells
2024-01-22 - EOG’s latest wells in its new Ohio oil play are rolling into state public records, while Ascent Resources and Encino Energy are reporting the biggest producers. All three are landing 3-milers. Some are 3.5 miles.
E&P Highlights: Jan. 8, 2024
2024-01-08 - Here’s a roundup of the latest E&P headlines including the second biggest deepwater gas find of 2023 and new contract awards.
Prairie Operating Acquires More D-J Basin Assets for $94.5MM
2024-01-15 - Houston-based Prairie Operating Co. is scaling its D-J Basin footprint with a $94.5 million acquisition of Nickel Road Operating LLC.
Despite GoM Struggles, 2024 is Still Ripe for Offshore Rigs
2024-01-07 - Though industry experts are predicting 2024 to be a slow year for rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, there is plenty of opportunity for contracts to be awarded in other markets.
US Drillers Add Oil, Gas Rigs for First Time in Three Weeks
2024-01-19 - U.S. energy firms this week added oil and natural gas rigs for the first time in three weeks