Geopolitical tensions are starting to weigh on oil prices

The United States’ decision to conduct airstrikes earlier this week against targets in Somalia and Yemen provoked more aggression from Houthi rebels, who engaged in multiple new attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Following that, Yemen’s rebels claimed a successful hit to the U.S. military ship, which the United States quickly denied. Despite months of ongoing attacks on ships passing through the strait, there have not been any reports of casualties. However, the odds of a fatal tragedy are growing together with the increasing intensity of Houthi’s attacks. Such an event would likely elevate tensions to a new level and put significant pressure on the United States government to act. In the scope of this worsening crisis, the odds of higher oil prices are climbing. On the technical side, some developments suggest oil might be prime for a run higher as well; the MACD crossed into bullish territory on the daily graph, and RSI and Stochastic continue to build bullish structures. Nonetheless, one thing to note is that the ADX is still relatively low, hinting the trend is very weak. Therefore, it might be proper to wait and see whether the USOIL manages to close above $76.14 for at least two consecutive days before committing to a bullish outlook.

Illustration 1.01

The image above shows the MACD breaking above the midpoint on the daily time frame.

Illustration 1.02

Illustration 1.02 displays the daily chart of the USOIL and simple support/resistance levels derived from peaks and troughs. An important level to watch is support at $76.14. If the USOIL manages to make another two consecutive closes above this level, it will bolster the bullish odds.

Technical analysis
Daily time frame = Bullish
Weekly time frame = Neutral

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DISCLAIMER: This analysis is not intended to encourage any buying or selling of any particular securities. Furthermore, it should not be a basis for taking any trade action by an individual investor or any other entity. Your own due diligence is highly advised before entering a trade.

Comment:

During the weekend, a drone attack on the U.S. base at the Jordanian border killed three service members and injured another twenty-five. This is the first report of casualties among American troops in the Middle East since the start of the Israel-Hamas War in October 2023. The voices calling for retribution and war with Iran are getting louder in Washington.

Comment:

Oil prices are falling amid rumors of Hamas and Israel negotiating a ceasefire deal.