Oil prices fell in early Asian trading on Monday, reversing gains from Friday as U.S. inflation data further dimmed the prospects of interest rate cuts anytime soon and boosted the dollar, which hurts oil demand.
"The sticky U.S. inflation sparks concerns for 'higher-for-longer' interest rates", leading to a stronger U.S. dollar and putting pressure on commodity prices, independent market analyst Tina Teng said.
Lower inflation would have increased the likelihood of interest rate cuts, which would stimulate economic growth and oil demand.
But oil prices could swing higher again if U.S. inventory data and China's PMI index show improvements this week, Teng said.
Brent had settled up 49 cents and WTI up 28 cents on Friday on concerns about disruptions to supply from events in the Middle East.
Persons:
Tina Teng, Teng, Brent
Organizations:
Brent, West Texas, U.S . Federal, PMI
Locations:
Grandfalls , Texas, Russia's Krasnodar