U.S. oil prices fell about 2% on Monday, adding to last week’s steep losses on fears President Donald Trump’s global tariffs would push the U.S., and maybe the world, into a recession.
U.S .crude oil fell $1.29, or 2.08%, to close at $60.70 per barrel, while Brent lost $1.37, or 2.09%, to settle at $64.21. The latest price action comes after U.S. crude and Brent closed down more than 10% last week.
Futures tied to U.S. West Texas intermediate crude hit a session low of $58.95 per barrel, the lowest level since 2021. Global benchmark Brent fell to an intraday low of $62.51.
The decision by key OPEC+ producers last week to increase the pace of production hikes has also put downward pressure on oil prices. Saudi Aramco on Sunday slashed the price of its flagship Arab Light crude.
Trump touted the steep fall in oil prices early Monday.
“Oil prices are down, interest rates are down (the slow moving Fed should cut rates!), food prices are down, there is NO INFLATION, and the long time abused USA is bringing in Billions of Dollars a week from the abusing countries on Tariffs that are already in place,” the president said in a Truth Social post.
But worries are mounting that tariffs could lead to higher prices for businesses, which could lead to a slowdown in economic activity that would ultimately hurt demand for oil.
The tariffs, which are set to take effect this week, “would likely push the U.S. and possibly global economy into recession this year,” according to JPMorgan. The firm on Thursday raised its odds of a recession this year to 60% following the tariff rollout, up from 40%.
Credit:nbcct