Crude Oil Prices Surge Over 3% Approaching 52-Week High Amid Rising Geopolitical Concerns
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) Global crude oil prices experienced an increase on Monday due to ongoing concerns regarding supply disruptions in the West Asia region, influenced by the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict. Brent crude futures saw a rise of up to 2.01 percent, translating to $2.2, reaching $111.23 per barrel, which is close to a 52-week high. Similarly, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude prices jumped by 3.53 percent or roughly $4, hitting $115.48 by 10:20 am.
In the domestic market, crude oil futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) for the May 18 contract were priced at Rs 9,276, up by 0.9 percent or Rs 83. The contract peaked during the day at Rs 9,335, marking a rise of 1.54 percent or Rs 142.
This surge follows a significant rally from the previous session, with WTI jumping over 11 percent and Brent increasing nearly 8 percent, marking their largest single-day gains since 2020 amid heightening geopolitical tensions.
Market analysts suggest that crude oil remains a vital factor influencing market dynamics, with prices remaining stable due to ongoing supply apprehensions.
On a global scale, US crude is trading within the $110–$112 range, approaching a key resistance area. Analysts believe that a breakthrough above $115 could initiate a rally towards levels of $118–$120.
Conversely, if prices dip below $109, a correction could be expected towards $106, with robust support around $100–$102. The overall trend appears bullish as long as these support thresholds are maintained.
Tensions have escalated following a warning from US President Donald Trump regarding severe repercussions if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by his Tuesday deadline, raising fears over potential disruptions in global oil supplies.
In response, OPEC+ has consented to increase output by 206,000 barrels per day in May, although this measure is not expected to substantially alleviate supply worries in the immediate future.
Meanwhile, domestic equity markets saw declines, with the Sensex dropping by 529 points or 0.72 percent to 72,790, reaching an intraday low, while Nifty fell by 150 points or 0.66 percent to 22,561, also logging an intraday low early in trading.