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Trump's Reelection: A Bearish Signal for Oil and Diesel Prices?

Wesley ParkTuesday, Nov 12, 2024 7:03 pm ET
4min read
As the debate surrounding Donald Trump's reelection begins, the oil and diesel markets are grappling with a significant development: the diesel benchmark price has hit a three-year low. This article explores the potential implications of Trump's energy and trade policies on global oil and diesel demand, and how they might influence the stock performance of energy companies.

The recent decline in diesel prices can be attributed to various factors, including a strengthening U.S. dollar, weak economic activity, and concerns over demand in key markets like China. However, the election of Donald Trump could further exacerbate these bearish trends. Trump's proposed energy policies, such as offshore drilling and LNG exports, could boost global oil and diesel supply, potentially keeping prices under pressure in 2025. However, the impact on demand remains uncertain, with OPEC and the IEA at odds on future demand growth.

Trump's trade policies, particularly tariffs, could also influence global oil and diesel demand by potentially slowing economic growth, which would decrease demand for energy. Citi's research note suggests that a second Trump term could keep oil prices under pressure in 2025 due to trade tariffs. This slowdown in demand could contribute to the recent decline in diesel prices, which hit a three-year low.

Trump's environmental policies, such as regulations on tailpipe pollution and EV sales, could significantly impact global oil and diesel demand. His administration's rollback of Obama-era fuel efficiency standards and potential revisions to California's stricter emissions rules could increase demand for oil and diesel, as these policies encourage the production and sale of less fuel-efficient vehicles. However, Trump's proposed cuts to electric vehicle (EV) tax credits and potential restrictions on EV sales could hinder the growth of the EV market, further boosting demand for oil and diesel. These policy changes could lead to increased oil and diesel consumption, potentially offsetting some of the gains made in fuel efficiency and EV adoption.



Trump's economic policies, such as tax incentives for capital investment in exploration and production, could stimulate U.S. oil and gas production, potentially increasing global supply. This could put downward pressure on oil and diesel prices, as seen in the recent decline of the diesel benchmark to a 3-year low. However, the impact on demand is less clear, as OPEC and the IEA have differing forecasts for 2025. Trump's policies may also influence demand through trade tariffs and changes in royalties from production on federal lands.

In conclusion, the reelection of Donald Trump could have significant implications for the oil and diesel markets, with potential bearish impacts on prices. However, the extent of these impacts remains uncertain, and investors should closely monitor the evolving situation. As an experienced investment consultant, I would advise investors to maintain a balanced portfolio, combining growth and value stocks, and to consider under-owned sectors like energy stocks as strategic opportunities. By staying informed about market trends and company-specific dynamics, investors can make well-informed decisions and navigate the potential challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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Disclaimer: the above is a summary showing certain market information. AInvest is not responsible for any data errors, omissions or other information that may be displayed incorrectly as the data is derived from a third party source. Communications displaying market prices, data and other information available in this post are meant for informational purposes only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Please do your own research when investing. All investments involve risk and the past performance of a security, or financial product does not guarantee future results or returns. Keep in mind that while diversification may help spread risk, it does not assure a profit, or protect against loss in a down market.