4 March 2024
Oil prices experienced a slight decline on Monday, despite OPEC+ announcing an extension of its voluntary output cuts through the middle of the year. This decision, aimed at stabilizing the market amidst global economic uncertainties and increased production outside the OPEC+ group, did not offset the dampening effects of warm winter weather on demand. Brent futures dropped 81 cents to $82.74 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) decreased by $1.20 to $78.77 a barrel, despite both experiencing gains in the previous week. The continuation of the 2.2 million barrels per day cuts by OPEC+ reflects the complex interplay between production decisions and fluctuating demand factors in the global oil market.