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Gulf Coast Crude Premiums Weaken as U.S. Rig Count Ticks Up, Hormuz Talks Advance
Premiums for physical U.S. crude oil grades declined on Friday as indicators pointed to potentially higher future supply and easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The developments overshadowed persistent concerns about ongoing conflicts and their impact on global energy flows.
Market Moves
The price for Light Louisiana Sweet (LLS) for October delivery, a key U.S. Gulf Coast benchmark, fell by 50 cents on Friday. The grade was assessed at a midpoint premium of $6.00 per barrel over U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures, according to market data.
The grade was reportedly bid at a $5.50 premium and offered at a $6.50 premium, indicating a softening in the physical market.
Easing Supply Concerns
Two main factors contributed to the weaker sentiment. In the U.S., energy services firm Baker Hughes reported that the number of active oil rigs rose by one to 450 this week. The rig count is a closely watched forward-looking indicator of future crude oil production.
AdMeanwhile, diplomatic efforts appeared to be gaining traction in the Middle East. The Financial Times reported on Friday that foreign ministers from Gulf nations are planning to meet with their Iranian counterpart to discuss a temporary shipping agreement through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport. The talks are reportedly being facilitated by Oman and Iran.
Lingering Risks and Outlook
Despite the bearish signals, several factors continue to support prices. Supply disruption risks remain elevated after Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis reportedly reached the strategic island of Perim in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, tightening their control over another vital shipping lane.
Furthermore, Chevron CEO Mike Wirth warned on Friday that the spare capacity buffers that helped limit price spikes earlier in the ongoing war have been depleted, which could push prices higher in the coming months. Separately, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said it now expects global oil supply and demand to decline more than previously forecast this year due to the conflict.
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