Free Trial

Saudi Arabia Could Raise April Crude Prices To Asia

OIL

Saudi Arabia is expected to raise its official selling prices for Asian buyers in April, given stronger physical premiums this month amid the prospect of a demand recovery in China according to respondents surveyed by Reuters.

  • Saudi Aramco may increase its flagship Arab Light grade by about 40cents in April to $2.40/bbl over the Dubai/Oman average, according to five respondents surveyed by Reuters.
  • The survey respondents also anticipate a hike in its heavier grade with Arab Medium and Arab Heavy increasing around 80cents and $1/bbl, respectively.
  • Saudi unexpectedly hiked March Arab Light prices to Asia, which was its first price increase in six months. A rise for a second consecutive month would indicate firm market confidence in demand growth.
  • China has picked up procurement over the past two month. Sinopec bought at least 17 cargoes of the UAE crude Upper Zakum from the spot market in Feb alongside several crude cargoes from other Middle Eastern countries.

To read the full story

Close

Why MNI

MNI is the leading provider

of intelligence and analysis on the Global Fixed Income, Foreign Exchange and Energy markets. We use an innovative combination of real-time analysis, deep fundamental research and journalism to provide unique and actionable insights for traders and investors. Our "All signal, no noise" approach drives an intelligence service that is succinct and timely, which is highly regarded by our time constrained client base.

Our Head Office is in London with offices in Chicago, Washington and Beijing, as well as an on the ground presence in other major financial centres across the world.