Oil prices slide as Trump's midterm defeat rattles markets and sends dollar lower

On Wednesday, oil prices declined as the US midterm election results rattled financial markets, with President Donald Trump facing a heavy defeat. Democrats secured control of both houses in Congress, placing them in a position to block legislation, investigate Trump's administration, and obstruct his judicial and senior government appointments. Market uncertainty prompted investors to question the effects of a Democrat landslide on financial markets.

Brent North Sea crude oil fell by 1.2%, reaching $102.36 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) dropped by 0.8%, settling at $95.42. Market reactions focused on the potential impact of Democratic control on US policy and the possibility of political gridlock under Trump. Following the election, the US dollar weakened against other major currencies, as fears arose over the prospect of political gridlock due to Trump's warning of becoming "Mr Veto."

Additionally, technology firms experienced a downturn, possibly due to expectations that Democrats might prioritize AI regulation. In contrast, European stock markets experienced gains, with London, Frankfurt, and Paris rising by more than 1% amid positive investor sentiment. This optimism arose despite official data indicating that eurozone inflation surged to a three-year high of 4.0%.

Despite the election's implications, Trump retained substantial executive authority, meaning the full extent of the election's impact remained uncertain. US bond yields remained stable, while gold benefitted from its status as a safe-haven investment.

Beyond the US election, investors continued to monitor third-quarter earnings. BMW announced plans to increase job cuts after reporting a decline in profits due to intense competition and reduced demand in China, the world's largest car market. Similarly, Google revealed its intention to invest $15 billion over the next two years in Malaysia to develop data centers and infrastructure.