Market Strategist
Summary: Oil prices have been skyrocketing until they recently plunged into a bear market, falling 20% from June, to where they are now, about $100 a barrel. Despite this sharp pull back, oil stocks all over the world are still some of the best performers this year, supported higher in anticipation of growing earnings. Cast your mind back to just two years ago. The oil price plunged to US$20 a barrel, thanks in part to the coronavirus and a bruising price war. Here we discuss the two things oil investors need to know now, and also question if oil and oil stocks are good buy.
Oil (OILUKSEP22 & OILUSAUG22) has fallen from ~$140 in March to where it is today as China, the world’s biggest oil importer and commodity consumer ramped up its covid restrictions and mass testing. lockdowns. Recently, a one single covid case shut down one of China’s steel hubs for three days, while in Macau, the gambling hub, it’s been shut for a week. Basically, as long as there are covid cases, a zero covid stance, oil remains pressured. Meanwhile, oil has also fallen off its high on recessionary fears. But now we think, the oil price could be showing signs that selling is easing, click here to read Ole Hansen, Saxo’s Head of Commodity Strategy’s recent report.
Investors in oil stocks like Occidental Petroleum (OXY) may be particularly pleased, with shares in that company up 97% since January, while Exxon Mobile (XOM) shares have climbed 38% and Woodside Energy (WDS) is up 37% year to date. While the Tech heavy Nasdaq is down 22%, the S&P500 is down 14% and Australia’s ASX200 is down 11% YTD.
For years, we’ve been hearing that that world is about to arrive at “peak oil”, and that demand for it will soon drop as green energy sources take precedence.
While that is true on some accounts, the world has not transition in time, so demand for fossil energy will likely grow at a quicker pace for now. It’s also worthwhile to note, oil is entrenched in almost every aspect of our daily lives, and this remain the case for at least the next decade.
Oil tends is used for a lot more than just petroleum - energy needs. Petrochemicals, which are made from oil, are crucial ingredients used in society. From being used in the medical industry, to plastics, to food preservatives, cosmetics, glass, carpet, and even fertilizers. Products that include petrochemicals range from; golf bags, toilet seats, shampoos, crayons, footballs, candles, cameras, and tents, just to name a few. Also consider, even environmentally friendly means of transport, such as bicycles and electric cars used components made of plastic which are made of Petrochemicals.
So yes, whilst there is a shift towards renewables, oil stocks remain a solid long-term investment. The only question is, when is the right time to make it?
As we all saw in 2020, and from 2014-15-when a supply glut flooded the market, the oil market is enormously volatile; with unexpected booms and dramatic busts. So, while Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was another catalyst for crude prices soaring this year, a sudden loosening of trade sanctions, or for that matter, a global recession, could case the oil price to fall further and stocks plummet.
We suggest you ask yourself some questions before investing:
With oil prices being so volatile, the larger players should be better equipped to handle drastic changes in the market. That being said, as the oil price fell 20% from June, many oil stocks fell from their highs and could face further selling before oil demand picks up in China, which will support the oil price moving higher again all while oil supply remains critically short.
Therefore, if you are looking to invest in oil this year, we think it may be best to confine yourself to the major players in the league like Occidental, Exxon Mobil, Shell, BP, Woodside. Companies like these have strong balance sheets, rising free cash flow and earnings growth, with revenue measured in the billions.
In a nutshell, as long as oil continues to be an essential part of our daily lives, these companies should continue to thrive over the longer term.
Find out more about what is happening in the commodity space here.
2024: The wasted year
Markets are driven by election optimism, overshadowing growing debt and liquidity concerns. The 2024 elections loom large, but economic fundamentals and debt issues warrant cautious investment.
As US economic slowdown hints at a shift away from exceptionalism, USD faces downside with looming Fed cuts. AUD and NZD set to outperform as their rate cuts lag. JPY gains on carry unwind bets and BOJ pivot.
Amid AI and obesity drug excitement, equities see varied prospects: neutral on overvalued US stocks, negative on Japan due to JPY risks, positive on Europe. European defence stocks gain appeal.
With the economic slowdown, quality assets will gain favour, especially sovereign bonds up to 5 years. Central banks' potential rate cuts in Q2 suggest extending duration, despite policy and inflation concerns.
Commodities poised for rebound. The "Year of the Metal" boosts gold and silver, copper awaits rate cuts. Grains may recover, natural gas stabilises. Gold targets $2,300-$2,500/oz, copper's breakout could signal growth.
Markets are driven by election optimism, overshadowing growing debt and liquidity concerns. The 2024 elections loom large, but economic fundamentals and debt issues warrant cautious investment.
As US economic slowdown hints at a shift away from exceptionalism, USD faces downside with looming Fed cuts. AUD and NZD set to outperform as their rate cuts lag. JPY gains on carry unwind bets and BOJ pivot.
Amid AI and obesity drug excitement, equities see varied prospects: neutral on overvalued US stocks, negative on Japan due to JPY risks, positive on Europe. European defence stocks gain appeal.
With the economic slowdown, quality assets will gain favour, especially sovereign bonds up to 5 years. Central banks' potential rate cuts in Q2 suggest extending duration, despite policy and inflation concerns.
Commodities poised for rebound. The "Year of the Metal" boosts gold and silver, copper awaits rate cuts. Grains may recover, natural gas stabilises. Gold targets $2,300-$2,500/oz, copper's breakout could signal growth.
