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What's Next in Gas_ Risk to Israeli gas production reinforces upside risk to TTF this winter
ray dalio·2024-10-07 16:08

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the natural gas industry, particularly the implications of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East on gas production and pricing in Europe [2][3]. Core Insights and Arguments - Israeli Gas Production Risks: The potential disruption of gas production from Israel's Leviathan and Tamar fields poses an upside risk to TTF (Title Transfer Facility) prices this winter. These fields contribute approximately 22 Bcm/y, which is about 3.9% of global LNG supply [2][3]. - Impact of Regional Tensions: Although operations at the gas fields have resumed, ongoing regional tensions could lead to renewed production disruptions. A sustained disruption could tighten global markets by approximately 9 Bcm/y, equating to 1.7% of global LNG supply [2]. - European Market Vulnerability: The moderate scale of potential market tightening increases the vulnerability of European markets to price spikes, especially if colder-than-average weather occurs [2]. - Russian Gas Flow Outlook: The market anticipates a halt of Russian gas flows through Ukraine by year-end, which has already contributed to a 5% increase in European gas prices, reaching over 38 EUR/MWh [3]. The consensus remains that without a deal, flows will cease, impacting future price forecasts [3]. - Price Forecast Adjustments: Should a deal be reached to maintain gas flows, there could be a downside of 4 to 8 EUR/MWh to the current price forecasts of 40/33 EUR/MWh for the winter of 2024-2025 [3]. Additional Important Content - Gas-to-Oil Switching Economics: The current economics for switching from gas to oil are in the range of 59-74 EUR/MWh, indicating a potential shift in energy sourcing depending on price movements [3]. - Market Recovery: TTF forwards had already recovered from previous downturns related to geopolitical events before the recent tensions, suggesting a resilient market outlook [5]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights from the conference call, highlighting the interplay between geopolitical risks and market dynamics in the natural gas sector.