The WTI Crude Oil Futures (NYMEX: CL) market is defying expectations, experiencing a surge this week despite bearish economic data and a larger-than-anticipated inventory build. Prices are currently trading 50 basis points higher week-to-date, showcasing resilience in a seemingly contradictory environment.
This bullish run comes even after the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a surprisingly high 5.841 million barrel increase in U.S. crude oil inventories. This data point indicates weaker demand amid soaring oil prices, potentially weighing on prices. Additionally, March’s inflation report, exceeding forecasts at 3.5%, has dampened hopes of near-term interest rate cuts. Traditionally, steeper interest rates can slow economic growth, potentially reducing demand for oil.
So, what’s fuelling this defiance? Geopolitical tensions are the primary culprit. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas are stoking fears of supply disruptions among the major oil suppliers. These concerns are outweighing the bearish economic data, prompting traders to buy oil futures.
Technical
The WTI Crude Oil Futures have been navigating an upward trajectory, supported by trading above the 100-day moving average.
However, encountering resistance at $87.63 per barrel (BLL) amidst overbought RSI conditions triggered selling pressure. Yet, a resilient support emerged at $84.55 BLL, fostering buying activity and propelling the oil futures towards the 61.80% Fibonacci Retracement Golden Ratio level.
A breakout above this Golden Ratio, backed by high volume, could signal intensified bullish sentiments, possibly leading to a retest of the $87.63 BLL resistance. Conversely, bearish pressures may reemerge if the Golden Ratio acts as an intermediate resistance. The 50% level could serve as a downside point of interest in such a scenario.
Summary
Despite geopolitical tensions supporting oil futures amidst bearish economic data, traders remain vigilant. Resistance at $87.63 BLL and support at $84.55 BLL signal potential key levels of interest. Market direction hinges on upcoming data releases and Federal Reserve communications, shaping future oil price movements.
Sources: Federal Reserve, CME, Energy Information Administration, Reuters, TradingView
Piece Written By Nkosilathi Dube, Trive Financial Market Analyst
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