欧洲天然气价格年底窄幅盘整 年内暴跌40%创三年最大跌幅

Core Viewpoint - European natural gas futures prices have stabilized around €28 per megawatt-hour since the beginning of the month, with expectations of a 40% decline by year-end, marking the largest annual drop since 2023 [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Natural gas prices are currently hovering around €27.84 per megawatt-hour, with a recent increase of 1.1% [1] - The market has shifted from initial concerns about low fuel inventories to a more stable outlook due to strong supply and mild weather [1] - Norway's stable gas supply and increased liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports have alleviated market pressures, indicating significant progress since the energy crisis four years ago [1] Group 2: Supply and Demand Factors - The International Energy Agency predicts that Europe’s LNG imports are set to reach a record high this year [1] - Despite a mild start to the heating season, forecasts indicate a drop in temperatures in parts of Europe by mid-January, with models showing continued below-normal temperatures in Northwestern Europe [1] - Current natural gas inventory levels have decreased to 63%, compared to a five-year average seasonal inventory level of 74% [1] Group 3: Trading Activity - Trading volume was relatively low ahead of the New Year holiday, reflecting cautious market sentiment [1] - Ongoing electricity issues continue to impact natural gas delivery, adding another layer of complexity to the market [1]