Oil prices increased today over renewed Ukraine tensions, which raised the risk of disruption to energy supplies.
Brent crude rose by 38 cents to $108.27 a barrel, while US oil increased by 14 cents to settle at $100.13, reported Reuters.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Crude prices rose after pro-Moscow rebels claimed a resounding victory in Sunday’s referendum in eastern Ukraine, with nearly 90% voting in favour of self-rule for the region.
The European Union (EU) is considering strengthening the sanctions that it placed on Russia after Moscow annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region following a similar vote in March, and has called Sunday’s referendum illegal.
A meeting between foreign ministers from the 28-nation bloc are due to meet on Monday for finalising the addition of approximately 15 people and several Crimean-based companies to its list of 48 Russians and Ukrainians already targetted with asset freezes and visa bans.
See Also:
But further rises in oil prices were cut after Saudi Arabian Oil Minister Ali Al-Naimi said that the country is willing to supply oil if there are shortages due to the tensions over Ukraine.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataOil traders are waiting for China’s industrial production and retail sales data, which is scheduled to come out on Tuesday.
Investors are also keeping an eye on Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency meeting, which is scheduled later today in the Austrian capital Vienna, a day before discussions resume between Tehran and six western nations over Iran’s nuclear programme.
These two sets of discussions are separate but closely linked, as both focus on fears that Iran may be covertly seeking the capability to develop nuclear weapons.
Oil prices will ramp-up if there is any sign of progress towards a final resolution to the West’s dispute with Tehran.
Image: EU could strengthen sanctions over growing Ukraine crisis. Photo: courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net/ Feelart.
