Consensus forms behind rising crude prices
Saudi cuts and slowing US output add to improved demand outlook
Crude oil prices rose by c.14% in July, and a consensus seems to have formed among analysts and observers that prices are likely to continue to rise over the rest of the year. The July increase appeared largely a response to the latest round of cuts by OPEC+ countries, most notably Saudi Arabia, which implemented a new cut of 1m b/d effective from 1 July. Prices pulled back by about 2% on 2 August after ratings agency Fitch downgraded US debt from AAA to AA, but the ground was regained the day after when Saudi officials announced they would extend the 1m b/d cut to at least the end of September. Combined with an array of other market factors, Saudi Arabia’s renewed commitment appears to set
Also in this section
12 December 2025
The federal government is working with Alberta to improve the country’s access to Asian markets and reduce dependence on the US, but there are challenges to their plans
12 December 2025
The latest edition of our annual Outlook publication, titled 'The shape of energy to come: Creating unique pathways and managing shifting alliances', is available now
11 December 2025
The removal of the ban on oil and gas exploration and an overhaul of the system sends all the right messages for energy security, affordability and sustainability
10 December 2025
The economic and environmental cost of the seven-year exploration ban will be felt long after its removal






