DWF: Oversupply of oil and demand for gas expected in 2020

Slava Kiryushin, global head of energy at DWF, highlights the expected trends of 2020 in the global energy sector.

Commenting on the global oil trade in 2020, Kiryushin expects there to be an oversupply. He said: "Many oil traders have predicted a bullish 2020 for the global oil industry, with some going as far as speculating the revival of a US$100/bbl price tag. However, recent market analysis demonstrates that this is unlikely to happen and the market will be in a position of oversupply. My view is that this will primarily be due to increased shale production and a slower than expected growth of the global economy. The International Energy Agency's (IEA) latest reports support the view that there will a global oversupply."

"Even the new shipping fuel regulations set to be implemented in January 2020, known as IMO 2020, are not expected to change this trend despite potentially leading to an increased demand for low-sulfur gasoil and diesel. No doubt that the growth of the oil supply is a sensitive topic for OPEC+ members as 500 000 bbl/d were agreed to be cut from OPEC's supply. Overall, the market is less optimistic over the “revival” of the oil price."

Natural gas is likely to experience growing demand in 2020, according to Kiryushin. He said: "Unlike its hydrocarbon counterpart, natural gas is likely to experience growing demand in 2020 and beyond. Whether this is due to IMO 2020, the demand for chemical products (which require gas) or the environmental push to cut greenhouse emissions, is arguable."

"A change in climate also has a significant impact on the demand for natural gas. Whether used as fuel to keep the northern hemisphere warm during the colder winters or converted into electricity to power air conditioning during hotter summers, gas will remain at the forefront of the Energy sector in 2020."

"The only real question is whether the oil-linked gas price is competitive enough against alternative fuels. "