Oil markets: More sanctions on Russian Oil on the way

Oil markets have been under significant pressure lately due to anticipated supply gluts and China's accelerating transition to electric vehicles (EVs). It's somewhat puzzling why oil prices haven't dipped lower, especially considering that rate cuts in China seem inconsequential in pulling the country out of a deflationary mire without a massive monetary infusion directly to the populace. Additionally, there's a looming risk of a debt crisis in the bond market as it inflates—potentially bursting if China excessively issues new debt.

Yet today, it might be wise to hold off on selling oil as prices are ticking up. The Democratic economic team at the White House is gearing up to potentially escalate sanctions against Russia's oil trade, aiming further to choke off funds to the Kremlin's military endeavours. This comes just as a transition in U.S. leadership approaches.

While specifics are still being finalized, there's talk of targeting particular Russian oil exports—a strategy previously avoided due to concerns over global energy cost spikes. However, bolder measures are now deemed viable, with oil prices currently subdued by a global surplus and increasing anxieties that the incoming administration may push for a swift resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.

This shift could impose new pressures on one of the world's largest oil producers. Plans might include targeting international purchasers of Russian oil and enhancing sanctions against Russia’s tanker fleet—key to its oil transport. These moves could substantially shake up the global oil markets, especially as the European Union plans to tighten sanctions on Russia's shadow fleet by the end of the year.

At a minimum, until the specifics of the sanctions are revealed, this could establish a floor under oil prices. If the sanctions prove substantial, we could see oil prices climb higher. However, this upward trajectory may be tempered over time as non-OPEC countries and some OPEC members step in to fill the potential supply gap.