This guide explains the subject in a clear, comparable framework. Prices and conditions change over time; verify current sources before acting.
Supply and demand
Global growth, transport and industry shape demand; producers, shale and capacity disruptions shape supply. Small balance changes can create large price moves.
Inventories and the futures curve
Commercial inventories signal near-term tightness. Backwardation and contango in the futures curve reflect storage economics and market balance.
Brent versus WTI
The benchmarks represent different delivery points and market conditions. Logistics, quality and regional constraints can change the spread between them.
Important information
This content is general information and financial education. It is not personalized investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell.