The coronavirus continues to spread, and this weighed heavily on oil prices on Monday, as investors remained concerned that the demand for crude is falling.
In the European session, U.S. crude oil is trading at $51.16, down $2.02 or 3.83% on the day. Brent crude oil is trading at $56.12, down $2.29 or 3.95% on the day.
The China coronavirus is weighing on the markets, as the outbreak continues to spread. With growing fears that the virus is becoming a pandemic, investors are nervous that crude demand will continue to fall and drag prices lower.
Earlier on Monday, Italy reported that 200 confirmed cases, the largest number of cases outside of Asia. Italy’s health officials have imposed severe restrictions, which include limiting transport and the quarantine of individuals in affected areas. There is extreme concern that that virus could quickly spread throughout western Europe, as the Schengen Area, which covers 26 countries, allows for borderless travel. The European Union has said that it will not impose travel bans, but that could change if other European countries report coronavirus cases.
WTI/USD is down sharply on Monday, putting strong pressure on the 50.90 line. This line could be tested later in the Monday session. Below, there is support at the symbolic 50.00 level, followed by support at 49.30.
On the upside, there is resistance at 52.50, followed by resistance at 54.00. Above, the 50-day EMA is situated at 54.71.
Kenny is an experienced market analyst, with a focus on fundamental analysis. Kenny has over 15 years of experience across a broad range of markets and assets –forex, indices and commodities.