The prices of contracts for American natural gas are experiencing declines as the latest weather forecasts indicate warmer-than-previously-expected temperatures in October.
Data released by the EIA indicates that the number of Heating Degree Days is expected to increase in the coming weeks, which theoretically should support price stabilization. However, this information was not enough to stop the wave of sell-offs.
This scenario raises concerns among investors about the level of demand for the commodity, as it may mean a delay in the start of the heating season in the United States.
During the transition from autumn to winter, the gas market is traditionally characterized by increased volatility.
This is due to significant uncertainty regarding weather conditions, which are a key factor shaping short-term demand. Any change in temperature forecasts can lead to sharp price reactions, especially in the context of low liquidity at the beginning of the heating season.
The current price drop may therefore reflect a short-term adjustment in demand expectations, but the market remains sensitive to further updates in weather forecasts. A cooler turn in the second half of October could quickly reverse the current trend.
An interesting aspect of today's session is the fact that such strong price declines are occurring even before the release of the weekly U.S. gas inventory data, which is scheduled for tomorrow. Typically, investors hold off on making significant moves until these data are known.
Source: Bloomberg Finance Lp
The Heating Degree Days (HDD) chart shows that the index has recently fallen below the average of recent years, confirming a reduced need for heating in the early days of October. However, it's worth noting that current forecasts for the coming weeks still remain slightly above the five-year average, suggesting that the market should not yet assume a sustained decline in demand for the entire season.
NATGAS (M15)
Source: xStation5
Daily Summary: Shutdown ends, rate cut fades and risk is off
Siemens after Earnings: What went wrong?
BREAKING: Oil inventories raise more than expected! 🛢️📈
Google's European troubles
This content has been created by XTB S.A. This service is provided by XTB S.A., with its registered office in Warsaw, at Prosta 67, 00-838 Warsaw, Poland, entered in the register of entrepreneurs of the National Court Register (Krajowy Rejestr Sądowy) conducted by District Court for the Capital City of Warsaw, XII Commercial Division of the National Court Register under KRS number 0000217580, REGON number 015803782 and Tax Identification Number (NIP) 527-24-43-955, with the fully paid up share capital in the amount of PLN 5.869.181,75. XTB S.A. conducts brokerage activities on the basis of the license granted by Polish Securities and Exchange Commission on 8th November 2005 No. DDM-M-4021-57-1/2005 and is supervised by Polish Supervision Authority.