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Hang Seng Index futures closed up 0.59% at 19,426 points in the night session, 140 points higher.On January 16, the Federal Reserve Beige Book stated that during the reporting period, overall prices rose to a certain extent, ranging from flat to moderately rising. Most respondents in the reserve area said that sales prices had increased moderately, but there were also cases where prices remained flat or fell, especially in retail and manufacturing. Input costs also rose, and respondents specifically mentioned rising insurance prices, especially health insurance. Respondents expect prices to continue to rise in 2025, and some pointed out that tariff increases may drive price increases.Brent crude oil rose more than 2.00% during the day and is now trading at $81.32 per barrel.On January 16, the Federal Reserve Beige Book pointed out that during the reporting period, overall, employment conditions rose slightly, with 6 Federal Reserve districts reporting a slight increase in employment and 6 reserve districts reporting no change. Respondents in several service industries, including healthcare, continued to report an increase in employment. Construction employment increased slightly, while manufacturing employment remained flat. Respondents in multiple industries pointed out that it was difficult to find skilled workers, and reports of layoffs remained rare. However, respondents in some reserve districts showed greater uncertainty about future staffing needs. Wage growth in most reserve districts accelerated to a moderate level, although some reports said wage pressures had eased.US President Biden: The United States will participate in the first phase of hostage release.

Oil Prices Begin the Week Lower as Fears of a Chinese Covid Lockdown Fuel Demand Concerns

Charlie Brooks

Apr 12, 2022 09:18

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On the New York Mercantile Exchange, oil futures declined 4.04 percent to close at $94.29 a barrel, while Brent crude futures slid 4.2 percent to trade at $98.49 a barrel on the London's Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE).


China's travel ban has harmed travel activities in the world's second biggest economy, placing a squeeze on jet fuel and crude oil consumption. "Air traffic has been reduced to 10% of its normal level not just in Shanghai, but also in other parts of the nation," Commerzbank stated in a note.


According to Commerzbank, the effect of decreased transport demand is estimated to be between 1.2 million and 1.3 million barrels per day, with jet fuel consumption accounting for around half of this amount.


However, there looks to be some relief on the horizon, as Shanghai officials said Monday that they will begin relaxing lockdowns in certain neighborhoods. The announcement comes after China's financial capital recorded a record number of new Covid cases on Sunday, exceeding 25,000.


Demand is being slashed at a time when extra production is scheduled to come online, putting more downward pressure on oil prices. The International Energy Agency's member states agreed last week to release 60 million barrels over the next six months, assuaging concerns about a supply crisis.