According to China Securities Journal, crude oil prices plummeted from their May 18 high, with both NYMEX WTI and Brent futures falling over 14% by May 26. As of May 26, both contracts posted intraday gains exceeding 1%. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East remain a key driver of oil price swings.
The sharp decline reflects a reshaped supply-demand dynamic. Global crude production has contracted significantly, inventories continue falling, while demand declines remain limited, creating a structural supply deficit that provides underlying support for prices in the medium term.