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Oil Inches Up as OPEC+ Discord and Trade-Talk Uncertainty Weigh on Prices

Oil prices modestly rebounded on Thursday after a 2% drop, as investors balanced talk of higher OPEC+ output with mixed trade signals from Washington and ongoing U.S.–Iran nuclear discussions.


Price Moves

  • Brent (June) Futures: +$0.08 (0.12%) to $66.20/bbl

  • WTI Futures: +$0.09 (0.14%) to $62.36/bbl

  • Wednesday’s Close: Both contracts down nearly 2%


OPEC+ Output Disagreement

  • June Increase on the Table: Reuters sources say several members want a second consecutive monthly boost.

  • Kazakhstan’s Stance: Will prioritize “national interest” over OPEC+ quotas—reviving fears of a price war.

  • Compliance Risk: With compliance already patchy, further discord could flood markets with excess supply.


Trade-War Tariff Signals

  • Trump’s Tariff Tone: White House may cut China duties to 50–60% to lure Beijing back to the table—but no firm offer.

  • Investor Reaction: Mixed; hopes of de-escalation supported risk assets, but details remain vague, limiting oil’s upside.


U.S.–Iran Nuclear Talks

  • Diplomatic Developments: Expert-level discussions in Oman aim for a nuclear framework, but sanctions on Iran’s LPG network keep energy tensions high.

  • Supply Impact: Any progress could ease Middle East risk premia, while setbacks will reinforce safe-haven demand for oil.


What’s Next for Oil Traders

  1. OPEC+ Meeting (Early June)

    • Watch for formal output decisions and member compliance statements.

  2. U.S. EIA Inventory Report (Tomorrow)

    • Weekly crude stocks data will confirm whether supplies are tightening.

  3. Flash PMIs & Trade Announcements

    • U.S. and China releases for demand cues; tariff updates for policy risk.


Track Key Policy and Supply Events

Stay on top of upcoming OPEC+ meetings, U.S.–Iran nuclear talks, and major economic releases with the
đź”— Economics Calendar – Economics Data API
from Financial Modeling Prep.
This API provides real-time schedules and context for the policy and supply-related events driving oil volatility.

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