On this week's episode, expert in oil and energy, Rory Johnston, joins hosts Erik Townsend and Patrick Ceresna to discuss predictions of supply shortfalls and the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve. They explore the impact of geopolitical escalation on global oil supply, analyzing factors like understated Iran production and strong Chinese demand. The podcast also delves into the potential consequences of Iran cutting oil supply to China, the historical usage of gasoline, and the latest update on crude oil inventory and production.
Massive supply shortfalls in the crude oil market predicted for Q3 and Q4 of 2023 did not occur due to factors such as leakage and discrepancies in the market.
Imbalance in gas and diesel crack spreads is a result of OPEC+ cuts favoring diesel production, leading to oversupply in the gasoline market and challenges for refiners.
Changing dynamics of the oil market, driven by the energy transition and decreasing gasoline demand, call for diversification and adaptation in the refining industry.
Deep dives
Crude oil supply shortfalls predictions did not materialize: Interview with Rory Johnston
In this podcast episode, Rory Johnston discusses why the predicted massive supply shortfalls in the crude oil market did not occur in Q3 and Q4 of 2023. He highlights the leakage and factors that contributed to the discrepancy between the predicted deficits and the actual deficits in the market. Johnston also talks about the geopolitical risks in the Middle East and the potential impact on oil prices. Additionally, he explores the recent developments in Venezuela, including the lifting of some sanctions and the prospects of freer and fairer elections.
Impact of OPEC+ cuts on gas and diesel crack spreads
The gas and diesel crack spreads have become significantly out of balance, with diesel crack spreads remaining strong while gasoline crack spreads have collapsed. This imbalance is due to the impact of OPEC+ cuts, particularly those from Saudi Arabia, which have tightened the market for heavier crude oil needed for diesel production. As a result, refining output has been more focused on diesel production, leading to oversupply in the gasoline market. This imbalance highlights the challenges faced by refiners in producing both gasoline and diesel from a shifting crude oil slate.
Geopolitical risks and potential impact on oil market
The podcast discusses the geopolitical risks in the Middle East, particularly the tensions between Iran, Israel, and other regional powers. The potential for escalation and its impact on the oil market is examined, with differing viewpoints on the likelihood of a conflict with Iran. The role of OPEC+ and Saudi Arabia in managing these risks and their implications for future oil production and prices are also discussed.
The changing dynamics of the oil market
The podcast explores the changing dynamics of the oil market, including the implications of the energy transition. The shift towards electric vehicles and decreasing gasoline demand is expected to impact the refining industry, as gasoline becomes less valuable compared to diesel. The need for diversification and adaptation in the refining sector to meet the changing demand patterns is emphasized.
Market Perception of Israel-Hamas Conflict and Oil Supply
The market perceives no serious risk of the Israel-Hamas conflict escalating and threatening global oil supply. The sell-off in crude oil prices following ground operations in Gaza suggests a clear message. The market is not worried about Iran closing the Straits of Hormuz or escalating to a direct war with Israel. Experts and analysts also view the risk as low. However, one prominent expert mentioned the potential bearish effect of conflict on oil prices, citing China's ability to blockade global shipping and disrupt global trade.
Market Analysis on Equities, Volatility, Gold, Bonds, and US Dollar
The S&P 500 is at a make or break moment, with a potential rally above the 200-day moving average indicating a full recovery led by defense stocks. The Nasdaq may experience short-term bounce, but caution remains. The VIX is backfilling quickly, suggesting reasonable vol premiums. Gold is experiencing a sigh of relief, but market complacency may lead to a significant pullback. 30-year government bonds may establish a short-term low, while the US dollar yen is approaching a potential short-term top.
MacroVoices Erik Townsend & Patrick Ceresna welcome Rory Johnston as this weeks guest. Erik & Rory will discuss everything from the predictions of massive supply shortfalls to the U.S. SPR. https://bit.ly/49hmVPb