While the majority of stocks are at or near all-time highs, the energy sector has been in a state of turmoil over the past year. At the heart of the matter is a massive global crude oil supply glut that has wreaked havoc on oil prices and oil producers.
So far, OPEC has been stubborn in its stance to maintain production levels, a stance that did not change during the group’s recent June meeting. OPEC seems determined to stick to its guns, but any unexpected future decision to dial back production could have a major impact on oil stocks.
In a recent article on Seeking Alpha, Force Majeure appropriately described the dynamic between U.S. oil producers and OPEC as a “Cold War.” While this war might not have any human casualties, concerned investors are wondering how many corporate casualties there will be.
Here’s a look at seven images investors should see following Friday’s OPEC meeting:
Although oil prices are more than 40 percent lower than this time last year, at around $60 per barrel, the current price of oil is still well above the breakeven price for the Marcellus and Eagle Ford shales.
When it comes to OPEC countries, $60 per barrel means that all but two of its members (Qatar and Kuwait) are currently operating at a loss.
While the U.S. has been…
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