Crude Oil is a mixture of hydrocarbons that are formed from the remnants of plants and animals which lived millions of years ago. Based on the characteristics of the crude oil, it may contain a small number of hydrocarbons which exists in the gaseous phase in natural underground reservoirs; a small number of nonhydrocarbons like sulfur, various metals; drip gases, liquid hydrocarbons manufactured from tar sands, Gilsonite, oil shale and so on.
| Date | Price | Price Change |
|---|---|---|
| May 25, 2026 | $ 93.65 | $ -6.56 |
| May 23, 2026 | $ 100.21 | $ -2.50 |
| May 22, 2026 | $ 102.71 | $ -0.05 |
| May 21, 2026 | $ 102.76 | $ -2.20 |
| May 20, 2026 | $ 104.96 | $ -5.57 |
| May 19, 2026 | $ 110.53 | $ -0.31 |
| May 18, 2026 | $ 110.84 | $ 1.58 |
| May 16, 2026 | $ 109.26 | $ 0.26 |
| May 15, 2026 | $ 109.00 | $ 3.25 |
| May 14, 2026 | $ 105.75 | $ -0.18 |
Crude Oil Rate in May 2026
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st May | $107.64 |
| 26th May | $97.19 |
| Highest rate in May | $113.63 on May 4 |
| Lowest Rate in May | $93.65 on May 25 |
| Overall Performance | Falling |
| % Change | -9.71% |
Crude Oil Rate in April 2026
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st April | $100.55 |
| 30th April | $108.96 |
| Highest rate in April | $111.02 on April 6 |
| Lowest Rate in April | $89.93 on April 17 |
| Overall Performance | Rising |
| % Change | +8.36% |
Crude Oil Rate in March 2026
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st March | $77.13 |
| 31st March | $104.76 |
| Highest rate in March | $110.96 on March 20 |
| Lowest Rate in March | $77.13 on March 2 |
| Overall Performance | Rising |
| % Change | +35.82% |
Crude Oil Rate in February 2026
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st February | $65.97 |
| 28th February | $72.48 |
| Highest rate in February | $72.54 on February 27 |
| Lowest Rate in February | $65.97 on February 2 |
| Overall Performance | Rising |
| % Change | +9.87% |
Crude Oil Rate in January 2026
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $60.91 |
| 31st January | $70.69 |
| Highest rate in January | $70.71 on January 29 |
| Lowest Rate in January | $59.96 on January 7 |
| Overall Performance | Rising |
| % Change | +16.06% |
Crude Oil Rate in December 2025
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st December | $63.18 |
| 31st December | $60.85 |
| Highest rate in December | $63.93 on December 5 |
| Lowest Rate in December | $59.03 on December 16 |
| Overall Performance | Falling |
| % Change | -3.69% |
Crude Oil Rate in November 2025
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st November | $64.89 |
| 29th November | $63.20 |
| Highest rate in November | $65.10 on November 11 |
| Lowest Rate in November | $61.57 on November 25 |
| Overall Performance | Falling |
| % Change | -2.60% |
Crude Oil Rate in 2024
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $71.97 |
| 31st December | $71.72 |
| Highest rate in 2024 | $86.91 on April 5 |
| Lowest Rate in 2024 | $66.25 on September 10 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2023
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $80.47 |
| 31st December | $71.65 |
| Highest rate in 2023 | $93.84 on September 27 |
| Lowest Rate in 2023 | $66.74 on March 17 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2022
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $76.08 |
| 31st December | $80.47 |
| Highest rate in 2022 | $123.70 on March 8 |
| Lowest Rate in 2022 | $71.50 on December 9 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2021
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $47.62 |
| 31st December | $75.21 |
| Highest rate in 2021 | $84.65 on October 26 |
| Lowest Rate in 2021 | $47.62 on January 4 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2020
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $61.33 |
| 31st December | $48.52 |
| Highest rate in 2020 | $63.27 on January 6 |
| Lowest Rate in 2020 | $12.34 on April 28 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2019
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $45.89 |
| 31st December | $61.06 |
| Highest rate in 2019 | $66.30 on April 23 |
| Lowest Rate in 2019 | $45.89 on January 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2018
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $60.24 |
| 31st December | $45.41 |
| Highest rate in 2018 | $76.41 on October 3 |
| Lowest Rate in 2018 | $42.53 on December 24 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2017
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $54.03 |
| 31st December | $60.42 |
| Highest rate in 2017 | $60.42 on December 29 |
| Lowest Rate in 2017 | $42.53 on June 21 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2016
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $36.76 |
| 31st December | $53.72 |
| Highest rate in 2016 | $54.06 on December 28 |
| Lowest Rate in 2016 | $26.21 on February 11 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2015
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $54.56 |
| 31st December | $37.04 |
| Highest rate in 2015 | $61.43 on June 10 |
| Lowest Rate in 2015 | $34.73 on December 18 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2014
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $98.70 |
| 31st December | $53.27 |
| Highest rate in 2014 | $107.26 on June 20 |
| Lowest Rate in 2014 | $53.27 on December 31 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2013
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $93.12 |
| 31st December | $98.42 |
| Highest rate in 2013 | $110.53 on September 6 |
| Lowest Rate in 2013 | $86.68 on April 17 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2012
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $102.96 |
| 31st December | $91.82 |
| Highest rate in 2012 | $109.77 on February 24 |
| Lowest Rate in 2012 | $77.69 on June 28 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2011
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $91.55 |
| 31st December | $98.83 |
| Highest rate in 2011 | $113.93 on April 29 |
| Lowest Rate in 2011 | $75.67 on October 4 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2010
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $81.51 |
| 31st December | $91.38 |
| Highest rate in 2010 | $91.51 on December 23 |
| Lowest Rate in 2010 | $68.01 on May 20 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2009
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $46.34 |
| 31st December | $79.36 |
| Highest rate in 2009 | $81.37 on October 21 |
| Lowest Rate in 2009 | $33.98 on February 12 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2008
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $99.62 |
| 31st December | $44.60 |
| Highest rate in 2008 | $145.29 on July 3 |
| Lowest Rate in 2008 | $33.87 on December 19 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2007
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $61.05 |
| 31st December | $95.98 |
| Highest rate in 2007 | $98.18 on November 23 |
| Lowest Rate in 2007 | $50.48 on January 18 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2006
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $63.14 |
| 31st December | $61.05 |
| Highest rate in 2006 | $77.03 on July 14 |
| Lowest Rate in 2006 | $55.81 on November 17 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2005
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $42.12 |
| 31st December | $61.04 |
| Highest rate in 2005 | $69.81 on August 30 |
| Lowest Rate in 2005 | $42.12 on January 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2004
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $33.78 |
| 31st December | $43.45 |
| Highest rate in 2004 | $55.17 on October 22 |
| Lowest Rate in 2004 | $32.48 on February 6 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2003
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $33.51 |
| 31st December | $32.52 |
| Highest rate in 2003 | $36.60 on February 3 |
| Lowest Rate in 2003 | $25.80 on April 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2002
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $19.48 |
| 31st December | $31.20 |
| Highest rate in 2002 | $31.20 on December 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 2002 | $19.48 on January 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2001
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $28.66 |
| 31st December | $19.84 |
| Highest rate in 2001 | $28.66 on January 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 2001 | $19.44 on November 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 2000
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $27.64 |
| 31st December | $26.80 |
| Highest rate in 2000 | $33.82 on November 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 2000 | $25.74 on April 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1999
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $12.75 |
| 31st December | $25.60 |
| Highest rate in 1999 | $25.60 on December 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1999 | $12.27 on February 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1998
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $17.21 |
| 31st December | $12.05 |
| Highest rate in 1998 | $17.21 on January 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 1998 | $11.22 on November 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1997
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $24.15 |
| 31st December | $17.64 |
| Highest rate in 1997 | $24.15 on January 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 1997 | $17.64 on December 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1996
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $17.74 |
| 31st December | $25.92 |
| Highest rate in 1996 | $25.92 on December 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 1996 | $17.74 on January 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1995
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $18.39 |
| 31st December | $19.55 |
| Highest rate in 1995 | $20.38 on April 3 |
| Lowest Rate in 1995 | $17.40 on June 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1994
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $15.19 |
| 31st December | $17.76 |
| Highest rate in 1994 | $19.77 on July 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1994 | $14.48 on February 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1993
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $20.26 |
| 31st December | $14.17 |
| Highest rate in 1993 | $20.60 on February 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1993 | $14.17 on December 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1992
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $18.90 |
| 31st December | $19.50 |
| Highest rate in 1992 | $22.11 on May 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1992 | $18.68 on February 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1991
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $21.54 |
| 31st December | $19.12 |
| Highest rate in 1991 | $23.37 on October 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1991 | $19.12 on December 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1990
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $22.68 |
| 31st December | $28.44 |
| Highest rate in 1990 | $39.51 on September 4 |
| Lowest Rate in 1990 | $17.07 on June 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1989
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $17.03 |
| 31st December | $21.82 |
| Highest rate in 1989 | $21.82 on December 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1989 | $17.03 on January 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1988
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $16.94 |
| 31st December | $17.24 |
| Highest rate in 1988 | $17.99 on April 4 |
| Lowest Rate in 1988 | $13.37 on September 1 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1987
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $18.75 |
| 31st December | $16.70 |
| Highest rate in 1987 | $21.37 on July 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1987 | $16.60 on February 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1986
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $18.83 |
| 31st December | $17.94 |
| Highest rate in 1986 | $18.83 on January 2 |
| Lowest Rate in 1986 | $10.42 on March 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1985
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $26.41 |
| 31st December | $26.30 |
| Highest rate in 1985 | $30.38 on October 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1985 | $26.30 on December 2 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1984
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st January | $29.98 |
| 31st December | $26.41 |
| Highest rate in 1984 | $30.85 on March 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1984 | $26.41 on December 3 |
Crude Oil Rate in 1983
| Details | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 st March | $29.27 |
| 31st December | $29.60 |
| Highest rate in 1983 | $32 on July 1 |
| Lowest Rate in 1983 | $29.23 on November 1 |
In other words, crude oil is the fossil fuel which exists in the fuel form in reservoirs or underground pools. It can be found in tiny spaces within sedimentary rocks or near the surface of tar sands. Petroleum products are oils made from hydrocarbons and crude fuel contained in natural gas. Apart from crude oil, petroleum products can also be made out of natural gas, coal and biomass.
Mainly crude oil means a mixture of hydrocarbons which exist in the liquid phase in natural underground reservoirs and remains liquid at atmospheric pressure after passing through surface separating facilities.
Products Manufactured from Crude Oil
Once the crude oil is removed from the ground, it will be sent to the refinery. In a refinery, different parts of the crude oil will be separated into petroleum products. The list of petroleum products includes – diesel fuel, gasoline, heating oil, petrochemical feedstocks, jet fuel, waxes, asphalt, and lubricating oils.
The oil industry characterizes crude oil based on its geographical source. There are four types of crude oil. They are
Class A: Light, Volatile Oils
Class B: Non–Sticky Oils
Class C: Heavy, Sticky Oils
Class D: Nonfluid Oils
The West Texas Intermediate or WTI crude oil is a specific grade of fuel and one of the main three benchmarks used for oil pricing apart from Brent and Dubai Crude. The West Texas Intermediate is known as a light sweet oil as it contains around 0.34% sulfur making it sweet and light. It also has a low density or specific gravity hence WTI is light.
Apart from this, WTI is the underlying commodity of the New York Mercantile Exchange’s (NYMEX) oil futures contract. This crude oil is regarded as a high-quality oil which can be easily refined.
It is refined mainly from inland Texas and is one of the highest quality oil available in the globe, which is easy to refine as well. It is often compared with the crude benchmark – Brent. Brent is two-thirds of the globe’s oil contracts based on oil extracted from the North Sea.
The West Texas Intermediate is the underlying commodity for the New York Mercantile Exchange’s oil futures contract.
The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) is used as one of the benchmarks in the oil markets apart from Brent and Dubai crude. The importance of a benchmark in the oil industry serves as a reference price for buyers and sellers of crude oil. These benchmarks are often quoted in the news as the price of the oil. Usually, there will be a difference between the prices of Brent and WTI and this will be referred to as the Brent-WTI spread.
The West Texas Intermediate (WTI), is the US produced light sweet crude oil blend. It provides direct crude oil exposure and is the most efficient way to trade oil in the global markets.
WTI or the West Texas Intermediate is the main oil benchmark for North America as it is sourced from the Permian Basin located in the U.S. This oil mainly comes from the Texas region. Later it travels through pipelines and gets refined in the Midwest of the Gulf of Mexico. The main delivery place for physical exchange and price settlement for WTI in Cushing, Oklahoma.
Both the WTI and Brent contain sulfur content, the lower the sulfur content in oil, the easier it is to refine, making it more attractive. WTI has 0.34% sulfur content; Brent has 0.37% of sulfur content. WTI is best for gasoline and Brent is ideal for diesel.
Ideally, WTI crude should trade at a premium price when compared with Brent crude, due to its high quality, but that is not the case always. Two crude oil varieties can trade at a similar price in the oil markets, each one has its particular unique demand and supply market and hence its price reflects its sole market fundamentals.
Since the shale boom in the United States of America, the production of the WTI shot up, hence the price has declined. WTI usually trades at a depreciated value to Brent. Apart from this, transporting WTI overseas to Brent’s crude markets could come at a cost which will make WTI unable to wrestle with Brent in terms of pricing.
The crude oil price today is $94.89 per barrel, equivalent to ₹9014.55, reflecting a decrease from yesterday’s price of $100.21. Over the last ten days, the highest price recorded was $110.53 on 19/05/2026, while the lowest was $94.89 today.
Recent fluctuations in crude oil prices have been influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions and potential diplomatic resolutions. As evidence emerges of progress in US-Iran talks, market sentiment has strengthened, resulting in a decline in oil prices as investors weigh the implications of a stabilized Strait of Hormuz.
Despite this pullback, global oil prices remain significantly elevated, rising more than 30% since the U.S. and Israel launched operations against Iran in late February. Analysts suggest that even if negotiations yield results, normalization of oil shipments may take months.
The RBI's outlook and macroeconomic indicators support the notion that crude oil could face further upward pressure if supply disruptions in the Middle East persist. Higher U.S. crude exports and weaker demand from China currently dampen extreme fluctuations in prices.
Industry experts warn that potential interest rate changes and inflation expectations could impact global demand. The continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran reinforces concerns about supply stability, affecting oil futures and pricing strategies for producers and consumers alike.
Oil is traded globally in U.S.
dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
25 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $104.26 per barrel, equivalent to ₹10,802.56, reflecting a rise from yesterday's price of $102.76. Over the past ten days, the price fluctuated with a high of $110.84 on 18/05/2026 and a low of $102.76 on 21/05/2026, indicating a volatile market driven by geopolitical tensions.
Current market conditions highlight significant concerns related to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has disrupted traffic through the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Reports show that while negotiations may be nearing completion, Iran's insistence on retaining its near-weapons-grade uranium has caused market apprehension, complicating supply dynamics.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has signaled that oil markets are tightening as summer travel demand approaches. Should the situation in the Strait of Hormuz worsen, supplies may be significantly compromised, pushing prices even higher. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol emphasizes the urgent need for stability in this vital oil route.
An analysis by Morgan Stanley suggests that a prolonged shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz could provide a substantial upward pressure on crude oil prices, as global supplies remain constrained. Meanwhile, increased U.S. crude exports and weakened Chinese imports somewhat cushion the market against severe disruptions.
Analysts are closely monitoring developments, with the potential for heightened volatility if negotiations falter.
Rising inflation and the anticipated fiscal strategies by central banks might also impact oil pricing in the medium term, keeping the market on edge.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
22 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $105.94 per barrel, translating to approximately ₹10,178.24. This marks a slight increase from yesterday's price of $104.96 per barrel. Over the past ten days, prices have fluctuated, with the highest recorded at $110.84 on 18/05/2026 and the lowest at $101.29 on 09/05/2026.
Current geopolitical tensions, mainly the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, are significantly influencing crude oil prices. Prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to fears of supply disruptions, which has kept oil prices steady above the $100 per barrel mark.
The international market is closely monitoring diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. President Trump has indicated that threats of renewed military action are on the table, causing speculation about potential disruptions in oil shipments through key maritime routes.
Analysts predict that without concessions from either side, the path to a successful agreement may remain elusive. Furthermore, reports suggest that the drawdown in oil inventories may complicate any efforts to stabilize prices in the near term.
The RBI's economic outlook may also play a critical role in the overall assessment of crude oil prices as inflationary pressures linger. With oil prices expected to remain high, the import costs for India could also increase, affecting the trade balance.
Oil is traded globally in U.S.
dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
21 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $109.82 per barrel, which translates to approximately ₹10,553.58, a slight drop from yesterday's ₹10,662.10. This reflects ongoing global tensions, especially concerning potential disruptions in Middle Eastern oil supplies. Over the past ten days, prices peaked at $110.84 on 18/05/2026 and dipped to $100.63 on 07/05/2026.
Recent geopolitical developments, particularly concerns surrounding Iranian oil exports, have significantly influenced global oil prices. Reports indicate that the U.S. may consider easing sanctions on Iranian crude to foster diplomatic negotiations. Such actions could pose relief by potentially reintegrating Iranian oil back into the market, mitigating supply shortages.
India's economic sensitivity to crude prices is evidenced by its dependency, with over 80% of the nation’s requirements being imported. Higher oil prices directly affect inflation rates, the value of the rupee, and broader fiscal health. Current market sentiment remains cautious due to this sensitivity, demanding close monitoring of oil price fluctuations.
As highlighted in recent trading sessions, both the BSE Sensex and Nifty indices experienced volatility in the backdrop of rising oil prices, suggesting a nuanced relationship between crude oil prices and market dynamics. Analysts suggest that developments in U.S.-Iran negotiations remain critical in determining price stability moving forward.
While the recent rise in prices could elevate inflationary pressures, anticipations of a diplomatic resolution may ease these concerns.
Investors are closely following these evolving discussions, given their potential impact on oil prices and broader economic indicators, including future fiscal policies.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
19 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $111.23 per barrel, translating to approximately ₹10,688.08, a notable rise compared to yesterday's price of $109.26 per barrel. Over the last ten days, prices have fluctuated, reaching a peak of $111.23 on this date and a low of $100.63 on May 7, 2026.
Recent developments contribute significantly to the current trends in crude oil prices. A marked increase in global oil prices is attributed to geopolitical tensions, particularly involving the U.S. and Iran, which have sparked concerns over supply disruptions. Crude oil prices have surged over 50% since earlier in February.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that OPEC+ decisions surrounding production quotas coupled with expectations for sustained demand have also driven prices higher. With oil imports making up a substantial portion of India’s energy use, this spike may further strain foreign exchange reserves.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is closely monitoring these price movements, as rising fuel costs could impact inflation rates and fiscal forecasts. Analysts suggest that potential interest rate adjustments may come into play to mitigate inflationary pressures from rising oil prices.
In conclusion, as crude oil prices remain at elevated levels, the focus is on both the geopolitical landscape and OPEC's response to global demand.
These factors are critical in shaping future crude oil pricing trends and maintaining market stability.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
18 May 2026As of 15-May-2026, the crude oil price today stands at $106.92 per barrel, equating to approximately ₹10,270.38 given the current dollar to INR rate of 96. This marks a rise from yesterday's price of $105.75 per barrel. Over the last ten days, the highest price recorded was $113.63 on 04-May-2026, while the lowest was $100.63 on 07-May-2026.
Current global crude oil prices are heavily influenced by several economic factors. Rising inflation and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have escalated crude oil prices significantly. The ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict creates supply concerns that threaten the stability of oil supplies, further driving prices upward.
Furthermore, India, as the third-largest oil consumer, faces amplified pressures due to these global fluctuations. With rising freight and logistics costs in addition to import pressures, state-run oil companies are experiencing substantial losses, estimated at nearly ₹10 billion per day.
The recent spike in crude oil prices has impacted inflation directly. Data indicated a petrol inflation jump from 2.50% to 32.4% in April, while high-speed diesel inflation surged to 25.19% from 3.62%. Such trends reflect the rapid escalation of crude oil market volatility, prompting speculations on future interest rate changes.
The RBI’s outlook and OPEC+ decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the global oil market.
If high prices continue, the pressure may result in tighter fiscal policies to combat rising inflation, affecting economic growth projections.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
15 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $105.93 per barrel, equivalent to approximately ₹10,199.08, remaining unchanged from yesterday's price. Over the past ten days, crude oil experienced a peak price of $113.63 on 4/05/2026 and a low of $100.63 on 7/05/2026, illustrating the volatility in the market.
Factors such as ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the Iran conflict and discussions between U.S. President Trump and Chinese President Xi, are contributing to the cautious sentiment among investors. The uncertain future of oil supply routes, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, is reportedly causing anxiety in the market.
Despite experiencing disruptions, analysts warn that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could significantly tighten global crude supplies, pushing prices considerably higher. Estimates suggest that prices could escalate to between $110 and $150 per barrel if conditions do not improve.
Moreover, with the U.S. Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions looming, traders are watching for signs of impacts on oil demand. A potential rise in interest rates could pressure global economic growth, which, in turn, affects crude oil consumption.
Saudi Aramco's CEO, Amin Nasser, highlighted the fact that international supply chains could be disrupted, delaying stability in oil markets until 2027 if the crisis persists. Market analysts emphasize keeping a close eye on these developments to gauge the impact on global oil prices.
Oil is traded globally in U.S.
dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
14 May 2026The crude oil price today stands at $106.59 per barrel, translating to approximately ₹10,217.64 based on the current dollar to INR rate of 96. This marks a decrease from yesterday's price of $107.93, reflecting ongoing market volatility. Over the past ten days, the highest price recorded was $113.63 on 04/05/2026, while the lowest was $100.63 on 07/05/2026.
The recent upward trend in crude oil prices is heavily influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and supply chain disruptions resulting from ongoing conflicts. Such factors not only impact crude oil prices but also affect broader economic conditions, particularly in countries that are heavily reliant on oil imports.
Recent reports indicate that India has increased its import duties on gold and other precious metals in response to these elevated crude oil prices. This is a strategic move aimed at curbing non-essential imports and protecting foreign exchange reserves amid rising inflation expectations and currency volatility.
High crude oil prices present a particular challenge for India's economy. The nation imports almost all of its crude oil, leading to rising energy costs. These costs can amplify inflationary pressures and increase the current account deficit, potentially weakening the rupee.
Policymakers are keenly aware of these risks. Recent measures to raise import duties, along with previous reductions, show a sensitive approach to managing external-sector vulnerabilities.
Such actions indicate a cautious stance toward an unpredictable global economic landscape driven by energy prices.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
13 May 2026As of May 12, 2026, the crude oil price today stands at $105.18 per barrel, equivalent to approximately ₹10,000.20 in India. Compared to yesterday's price of $104.35, today’s value reflects a modest increase amidst ongoing concerns about energy security. The severe geopolitical tensions in West Asia continue to impact pricing dynamics.
In the last ten days, the highest recorded price was $113.63 per barrel on May 4, 2026, while the lowest was $100.63 on May 7, 2026. This volatility underscores the sensitivity of crude oil prices to global events and market sentiment.
Current global oil prices are influenced by factors such as OPEC+ decisions, inflation expectations, and the overall economic outlook. Recent statements from the Indian government highlighted that state-run oil marketing companies are absorbing losses to shield consumers from surging prices, indicating a precarious balance.
India’s economic landscape is challenged by rising fuel demand and potential shortages fueled by external conflicts. Prime Minister Modi's call for conservation emphasizes the need for domestic stability amid soaring crude oil prices, which position India to reassess its energy strategies.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continues to monitor inflation metrics against the backdrop of fluctuating fuel prices, while global oil futures remain unpredictable. Expect movements in interest rates due to potential inflationary pressures, as policymakers strive to maintain economic resilience.
Oil is traded globally in U.S.
dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
12 May 2026As of 11-May-2026, the crude oil price today is $105.66 per barrel, equivalent to ₹10,052.70 (based on an exchange rate of ₹95 per dollar). This represents an increase from yesterday's price of $101.29 per barrel, showing a significant upward trend. The highest price in the last 10 days was $113.63 per barrel on 04/05/2026, while the lowest was $100.63 on 07/05/2026.
The fluctuations in crude oil prices over recent days have been driven by various economic factors. Notably, OPEC+ production decisions have tightened supply, which has contributed to rising prices. Additionally, inflation expectations and changes in the GDP outlook continue to influence market sentiment and oil demand.
Recent economic data suggests stabilization in several economies, supporting a positive GDP forecast. However, inflation remains a concern for central banks, including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as it may lead to changes in monetary policy. This uncertain landscape influences crude oil price dynamics across the globe.
Oil futures indicate that traders are factoring in potential interest rate changes, which could further impact economic growth and, consequently, crude oil demand. Global tensions, especially in key oil-producing regions, continue to create a volatile trading environment, adding an additional layer of complexity to price forecasting.
The global oil market remains sensitive to changes in the U.S.
dollar's strength. As it influences crude oil prices, any increase in the dollar's value may result in lower import costs for countries buying oil, while exporters might face reduced revenues.
Oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars. When the dollar strengthens, oil becomes cheaper for importers but yields lower revenue for exporters. A weak dollar has the opposite effect. This exchange rate dynamic significantly affects global oil pricing, influenced by trade policy, market volatility, and geopolitical events.
11 May 2026