About Mark Rachal
Posts by Mark Rachal
Propane’s relative value to WTI crude has been falling this year. Comparing propane’s value to crude’s value is an excellent way to determine the strength or weakness of propane fundamentals.... Read more»
High rates of propane production, high inventory levels and relatively soft growth in propane exports have created a bearish fundamental situation for propane that could continue beyond winter. Read more»
The U.S. government's decision to proceed with imposing sanctions on Venezuelan state-owned oil and natural gas company PDVSA could raise prices on 20 million barrels of U.S. crude products, and potentially hurt U.S. economic growth. Read more»
Last year, propane supply growth exceeded propane export demand by about 25 million barrels, which provides an essential headwind for propane prices. Going forward, the key question for propane pricing is if the imbalance will continue. Read more»
If the propane supply engine does not slow down, prices will be under downward pressure to encourage more domestic consumption and exports. Read more»
U.S. propane production surged at the end of 2018, which contributed to the recent weakness in propane prices and likely capped upside price potential. Read more»
Results from a recent survey of crude analysts show a significantly more bearish bias for crude for 2019. Learn more about this year's predictions. Read more»
Unless something dramatically changes for propane fundamentals, it is difficult to picture a rebound in propane prices without a rebound in crude prices. Read more»
Adequate propane production and supply is keeping propane prices heavily tied to the fortunes of crude’s price. The chart above plots Mont Belvieu LST propane’s price in cents per gallon... Read more»
U.S. propane inventory has been declining at an above-average pace over the last few weeks. Find out more about the two factors contributing to the inventory decline. Read more»
