Crude Oil Stable Till 2026, Natural Gas Demand Soars: Expert

• Energy expert Narendra Taneja predicts crude oil prices will remain stable, hovering near current levels until Q1 2026, due to surplus supplies and moderate demand growth.
• A major geopolitical shock, such as US involvement in Venezuela, is the primary risk that could disrupt the current stable oil market dynamics.
• US policy aims to keep oil prices around $60 a barrel to support its shale industry, a level broadly comfortable for major players like India and Russia.
• Taneja believes crude's fair price is closer to $58, noting OPEC's limited ability to significantly influence prices without Russia's full cooperation.
• Natural gas demand is expected to rise steadily, driven by its perception as a cleaner energy source and the global expansion of LNG trade, especially in Asia.

Why It Matters: Crude oil faces stability with geopolitical risks, while natural gas sees structural demand growth.