Oil Prices Could Top $120 as Middle East Conflict Escalates

Oil prices are on track to exceed $120 per barrel by the year's end, should Middle East conflict persist, according to RBC Capital Markets analyst Helima Croft, as reported by Reuters. The Houthis' advances in the Red Sea could severely disrupt maritime traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb, enabling more direct assaults on Saudi energy infrastructure and Red Sea tankers.

This intensifies tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which has already driven Brent crude and WTI above $100 per barrel. Brent crude prices were nearly $110 per barrel earlier today. The surge in oil prices has triggered a rise in bond yields, fueled by inflation concerns, leading investors to anticipate interest rate increases from major central banks.

JP Morgan forecasts suggest that up to nine developed economies, including the U.S., Japan, four European central banks, Australia, and New Zealand, might raise rates by year's end. This tightening, while expected to be modest, could escalate if growth remains robust, core inflation stays persistent, and commodity prices surge. Meanwhile, Asian economies are grappling with the impact, requiring financial support for businesses and households due to climbing oil and diesel prices.

Despite President Trump's optimism that the war will end after the November elections, doubts persist, as the conflict continues with no mention of peace talks by either side.