Nwali Chidozie
LAGOS, Aug 4 – Oil prices declined on Monday, with both major benchmarks experiencing a drop after the OPEC+ alliance agreed to another significant production increase for September. The decision, combined with worries over slowing global economic growth and geopolitical tensions, put downward pressure on the market.
Market Performance
As of Monday, both Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude contracts were down. Brent crude futures fell to 0.27% around, $69.45 per barrel, while WTI dipped to 0.19% about $67.10 per barrel.
These declines follow a previous drop on Friday, and a recent three-week rally, suggesting a shift in market sentiment.
Looking ahead, the market will be watching for further economic data, geopolitical developments, and any new signals from OPEC+ regarding its future production policy.
While the alliance has stated its flexibility and willingness to adjust output based on evolving market conditions, the current trajectory points toward a more plentiful supply environment, which could continue to keep prices in check.
OPEC+ Adds to Supply
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) announced a production hike of 547,000 barrels per day (bpd) for September.
This is the latest in a series of accelerated output increases, which the group says is in response to a healthy economy and low stockpiles. This move, which was largely in line with market expectations, adds to the global oil supply and has raised concerns about a potential oversupply in the coming months.
Geopolitical Uncertainty
The OPEC+ decision was not the only factor influencing the market. Oil prices were also weighed down by lingering concerns about a slowing U.S. economy, the world’s largest oil consumer.
Weaker-than-expected jobs data from the previous week fueled fears of an economic slowdown, which would decrease demand for energy.
Adding to the uncertainty are ongoing geopolitical tensions. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened strong economic sanctions against Russia if the war in Ukraine does not end by August 8, which could disrupt the flow of Russian crude.
The U.S. has also imposed retaliatory tariffs on goods from India, a major buyer of Russian oil, further clouding the outlook for global growth and energy demand.
