Yesterday, Brent oil prices rose to $73.30 per barrel, supported by expectations of lower interest rates and supply disruptions caused by Hurricane Francine. However, this growth was held back today by concerns about declining demand, especially in China, amid weak economic data released over the weekend. The current Brent quote is $72.50 per barrel. North American WTI crude is trading near $68.96. Supply disruptions due to Hurricane Francine After Hurricane Francine, oil production in the Gulf of Mexico decreased by 12%, and natural gas production by 16%. These disruptions may contribute to further price increases, although oil companies have been actively restoring production in recent days as the hurricane weakens. Awaiting the Fed's decision Investors are waiting for the meeting of the US Federal Reserve System, which will be held on Wednesday. The central bank may lower rates, which will support oil prices. Expectations of a more significant rate cut of 50 basis points put pressure on the dollar and stimulate the growth of oil prices. Concerns about demand However, the increase in oil prices is limited by concerns about slowing economic growth in China. The recent weak economic performance of China, the world's largest oil importer, has increased concerns about demand for black gold. An additional negative was brought by the forecasts of OPEC and the IEA, which lowered expectations of oil demand for the coming years.
