Crude oil prices rose slightly, with WTI at $83.43/bbl and Brent at $87.18/bbl, while natural gas dropped to $2.93/MMBtu. Naphtha markets remain volatile on tighter supply concerns. Several domestic and international petrochemical plants are shutting down or undergoing turnarounds, affecting ethylene and derivative production capacity across key regions. Global supply chains are under pressure from new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, rare earth export restrictions, and heightened Middle East shipping risks.
Economic indicators paint a weak picture, with the U.S. Leading Economic Index falling and manufacturing output contracting. Consumer confidence continues to erode amid inflation and job market concerns. Downstream petrochemical demand remains sluggish, with buyers minimizing inventories due to market uncertainty. Tariffs, logistical disruptions, and material shortages present significant risks to recovery and supply stability through the second quarter.
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