Saudi Arabia and Russia have announced that they will extend their cuts in oil supplies through the rest of 2023, pushing oil prices higher.
Analysts predict that Saudi Arabia may face an economic contraction in 2023 due to its decision to extend crude production cuts, highlighting the nation's heavy reliance on oil, while a large dividend from Saudi Aramco may provide some cushion for public finances.
The price of oil is surging as Saudi Arabia and Russia cut output, creating a supply deficit that is driving up prices and threatening a fragile global economy with inflation and potential interest rate hikes.
European markets were stagnant as investors awaited a decision from the European Central Bank on whether to raise interest rates for the tenth consecutive meeting, while carmaker shares dropped following an investigation into electric vehicle subsidies by the European Commission and concerns over Chinese retaliation. Additionally, the oil market is keeping a close eye on the possibility of crude prices reaching $100 a barrel as Saudi Arabia and Russia plan to extend production cuts until the end of 2023.
The International Energy Agency warns of a deepening oil market deficit in the fourth quarter due to extended Saudi and Russian production cuts, leading to diesel shortages and higher fuel prices impacting sectors such as construction, transport, and farming.
Higher oil prices are causing emerging-market assets to decline and dampening hopes for interest rate cuts, making developing-nation assets vulnerable.
Rising oil prices, driven by production cuts from Saudi Arabia and Russia, could have long-term economic repercussions, particularly in developing countries.
The secretary general of Opec+ predicts that oil prices will remain high due to increasing energy demand, as Saudi Arabia cuts its crude oil production by a million barrels a day and warns of a potential supply shortfall.
Crude oil prices extended losses for the second day but geopolitical tensions in the Middle East provide a positive backdrop for energy markets.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has lowered its forecast for oil demand growth in 2024 due to global economic conditions and increased energy efficiency, but raised its forecast for 2023 demand; however, the IEA warns that if OPEC+ unwinds its supply cuts in January, the market could shift to surplus.