Oil producers within the OPEC+ alliance have agreed to slash their oil production by more than 1.6 million barrels per day, starting in May and lasting until year-end. This surprise move is expected to send shockwaves through the global energy market, ultimately leading to higher US gas prices.
The impact on gasoline futures has already been felt, with wholesale prices increasing about 8 cents a gallon, or around 3%, in morning trading. As a result, it's likely that drivers will soon see an increase in gas prices at their local pumps, with the national average expected to rise significantly in the coming weeks.
Energy analyst Tom Kloza from OPIS believes that OPEC+ is "reawakening the inflation monster," and that this move could have significant implications for US gas prices. He forecasts that prices could reach as high as $3.80 to $3.90 per gallon, potentially exceeding last year's average of $4.19 per gallon.
While Kloza acknowledges that oil production and refining capacity in the US are increasing, he notes that a reduction of this magnitude is difficult for the market to absorb. The impact of OPEC+’s decision may be further complicated by concerns over global demand and potential supply disruptions, such as hurricanes affecting production along the Gulf Coast.
It's worth noting that gas prices have been relatively low in recent months, with the national average falling below $3.53 per gallon on February 23, 2022 – just before Russia's invasion of Ukraine sparked a surge in energy costs. However, Kloza believes that OPEC+’s move will likely push prices higher than they were at this point last year.
The impact on gasoline futures has already been felt, with wholesale prices increasing about 8 cents a gallon, or around 3%, in morning trading. As a result, it's likely that drivers will soon see an increase in gas prices at their local pumps, with the national average expected to rise significantly in the coming weeks.
Energy analyst Tom Kloza from OPIS believes that OPEC+ is "reawakening the inflation monster," and that this move could have significant implications for US gas prices. He forecasts that prices could reach as high as $3.80 to $3.90 per gallon, potentially exceeding last year's average of $4.19 per gallon.
While Kloza acknowledges that oil production and refining capacity in the US are increasing, he notes that a reduction of this magnitude is difficult for the market to absorb. The impact of OPEC+’s decision may be further complicated by concerns over global demand and potential supply disruptions, such as hurricanes affecting production along the Gulf Coast.
It's worth noting that gas prices have been relatively low in recent months, with the national average falling below $3.53 per gallon on February 23, 2022 – just before Russia's invasion of Ukraine sparked a surge in energy costs. However, Kloza believes that OPEC+’s move will likely push prices higher than they were at this point last year.