Opec to extend, tight oil to grow

The group is expected to extend its cuts deal. But global supply could still surge

Opec is almost certain to extend its cuts for the second half of 2017 when it meets on 25 May in Vienna. The group's most powerful member, Saudi Arabia, has signalled to the market to expect a rollover. Its neighbours in the Gulf, including Iraq, say they are on board. Venezuela is desperate for higher prices. "The deal is 99% done," one insider told Petroleum Economist recently. Oil prices haven't risen as high as most members would like, but they're well above the level they would have reached without a deal, and all members fear a sell-off if an extension isn't agreed later this month. Opec thinks one more heave will be enough to help the market turn a corner in the second half of the yea