Coquest

Your Daily Energy Report for December 17, 2025

Posted on 2025-12-17

Crude Oil

Crude Oil futures for January settled up $.67 or 1.212% at $55.94. Oil prices climbed on Wednesday, rebounding from a multi-year low following a presidential order for a comprehensive blockade of sanctioned tankers tied to Venezuela. This upward shift was further supported by expectations of imminent US sanctions against Russia's energy sector designed to force a peace agreement with Ukraine. However, any sustained rally might be hindered by persistent downward pressures, such as the potential for a diplomatic resolution in Eastern Europe and softening global demand. The market continues to grapple with a surplus of supply as non-OPEC producers increase output and OPEC+ gradually reinstates its previously restricted capacity. Ultimately, with consumption showing signs of fatigue in China and the US, the commodity remains positioned for its most significant annual decline in seven years.

​​​​​Natural Gas

Natural Gas futures for January settled up $.138 or 3.551% at $4.024. Natural gas prices jumped today as investors locked in gains and LNG export flows intensified. Monthly throughput at the nation’s eight largest LNG export facilities reached 18.6 Bcf/d, effectively eclipsing the previous November record of 18.2 Bcf/d. Momentum was further bolstered by indications that Freeport LNG in Texas restarted a liquefaction train, leading to higher intake volumes on Wednesday. However, this recovery faces headwinds from unseasonably mild weather forecasts leading up to Christmas, which may significantly dampen heating demand. Sustained price growth is also challenged by massive supply levels, with Lower-48 natural gas output maintaining a record-setting pace near 109.7 Bcf/d.
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