World oil price movements this month showed significant volatility, influenced by various global factors. In recent weeks, Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices have experienced sharp fluctuations, with attention focused on the geopolitical situation, post-pandemic demand and OPEC+ policies. One of the main factors influencing price movements is geopolitical tensions. Rising tensions in the Middle East, especially between oil-producing countries, have raised concerns about security of supply. For example, instability in Iran and the conflict situation in Yemen have prompted investors to speculate on potential oil supply disruptions. As a result, oil prices soared to their highest level in recent months. Apart from geopolitical factors, global oil demand is also changing. As the economy recovers post-COVID-19 pandemic, overall energy demand is increasing. Large countries such as China and the United States are showing signs of strong economic recovery, which is boosting oil demand. However, concerns over new variants of the virus and possible new restrictions are also buffering factors limiting the rate of price increases. Ongoing OPEC+ policies play a crucial role. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allied countries have set production quotas aimed at balancing the market. This month, OPEC+ decided to maintain its production recovery plan, but with an emphasis on keeping prices stable. The announcement had a positive impact, with oil prices showing an upward trend in the following days. Market sentiment also contributes to price movements. Investors and traders are watching weekly inventory data released by the Energy Information Administration (EIA). A decline in crude oil stocks in the US indicates higher demand, pushing prices up. However, some analysts warned that high prices could entice US shale producers to increase production, which would likely increase supply in the market and pressure prices going forward. On the other hand, climate factors and environmental regulations are also starting to influence the oil industry. Global commitments to reduce carbon emissions and shift to renewable energy are prompting many countries to consider stricter policies towards the fossil fuel industry. This could be a trigger for investors to pay attention to alternative energy sources as a substitute, potentially changing the oil market landscape in the long term. Additionally, technical analysis shows that the key resistance level in Brent oil prices is around $90 per barrel, while the support level lies around $85 per barrel. The global economy and other external factors will play an important role in determining the direction of oil price movements in the near future. Overall, world oil price movements this month reflect a complex interaction between geopolitical factors, demand, production policy and market sentiment. Continuous monitoring of these developments will be very important for market players and investors.
