Times of Islamabad

International oil prices hit lowest level of the year

International oil prices hit lowest level of the year

Oil prices fell on Monday with Brent crude falling near its lowest levelsince January 4th, 2022.

The world’s most traded commodity fell as low as $80.78 as concerns aboutthe outlook for fuel demand added to the downward trend that initiallyspiked last week. It is currently on track to post a third-straight weeklyloss, with prices driven down by slowing demand in China amid COVID-19outbreaks in the world’s second-largest crude-importing economy.

Currently, Brent crude is down $4.15, or 4 percent at $80.7 a barrel. TheUS West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude lost $2.75, or 3.50 percent, to sitat $73.52 per barrel after markets resumed trade in red on Monday.

With rising concerns about Chinese demand and a lack of clear signals fromoil producers to cut output further, bearish sentiment is rising in the oilmarket. Unless OPEC+ agrees to further reduce production quotas or the USmoves to replenish its strategic petroleum reserves, oil prices may fallfurther.