Energy market commentary

Despite stock prices that remain well below early 2020 levels, midstream earnings expectations have held up well.

The rebound in energy markets has sputtered over the past two months. Global crude production is likely to increase in the coming months, which could test oil prices previously stabilized by unprecedented supply cuts.

Concerns over spikes in COVID-19 cases weighed on energy sentiment in June. As global crude supply remains muted, further recovery in oil prices hinges on the return of demand in the U.S., the world’s largest energy consumer.

Midstream led a continued recovery for the broader energy sector in May. While falling production volume is a negative for midstream, many firms have protections in place to help mitigate impacts.

The energy sector rebounded in April along with the market. Midstream was the top performer in the energy sector, with MLPs posting a record monthly return. WTI futures went negative for the first time ever amid an unprecedented demand shock brought on by COVID-19.

Markets plunged in March, with energy leading the way down. Crude prices fell more than 5% due to a dual supply and demand shock. With global economies at a standstill and the world awash with oil, the market appears to be in a holding pattern.