Global LNG overhang is not done yet
Gas prices may struggle to move significantly higher in 2020, despite a recent bounce
Rising gas prices and surging freight encouraged predictions that LNG’s bear run is over in the latter months of 2019. Even long-dormant US Henry Hub prices sprung to life on forecasts of colder-than-normal November weather. However, while seasonal gas demand recovery is likely, there is little sign short-term demand growth can fully absorb substantial new LNG supply due from the ramp-up of 2019 start-ups and new projects due in 2020. Moreover, weak year-to-date demand in 2019 has allowed consumer market inventory to build ahead of peak winter demand. So, while gas prices may strengthen seasonally, a step-change higher currently looks unlikely. Freight jump LNG freight rates have also surg
Also in this section
10 December 2024
Sector at economic and strategic crossroads, but clear path ahead for midstream additions
30 November 2024
Decades of turmoil have left Iraq’s vast energy potential underutilised, but renewed investment and strategic reforms are transforming it into a key player in the region
29 November 2024
The country's fifth and sixth oil and gas bid rounds have attracted a range of new players with gas as well as oil ambitions—and there’s a seismic shift in the contracting process
28 November 2024
Iraq is charting a new path for its indigenous resources and its youth, hoping to electrify the future with a mix of reforms and modernisation to fuel growth