Core Viewpoint - The ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, have led to fluctuations in WTI crude oil prices, which reached a peak of $78.4 per barrel. Morgan Stanley outlines three scenarios that could influence future oil price movements [1]. Scenario Analysis - Scenario One: If military conflict does not disrupt oil flow and exports remain unaffected, Brent crude oil prices could fall to the $60 per barrel range [4]. - Scenario Two: A significant reduction in Iranian exports could eliminate global supply surplus, leading oil prices to stabilize between $75 and $80 per barrel [4]. - Scenario Three: If the conflict poses risks to broader Gulf region oil exports, high oil prices similar to those seen in 2022 could re-emerge [5]. Historical Context - In 2022, international oil prices peaked at around $140 per barrel due to the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, followed by a decline influenced by OPEC production cuts and U.S. strategic oil reserve releases, with prices dropping to a low of $70 by year-end [1]. Inflation Transmission Effects - The impact of oil price fluctuations on global inflation varies by region. In the U.S., a permanent 10% increase in oil prices only raises core inflation by a few basis points, while in the Eurozone, the same increase could raise core inflation by approximately 0.25 percentage points [3][7]. - The U.S. is positioned as the largest oil producer, which mitigates the inflationary impact of rising oil prices on its economy, although higher prices may still pressure consumer spending and growth [7]. Recent Price Movements - Despite recent increases, the rise in Brent crude oil prices from around $60 per barrel in early May to nearly $80 per barrel is relatively moderate compared to earlier peaks in January [5].

智通财经5月20日电，沙特经济部长表示，沙特经济随时准备应对多种油价情景。 ...

沙特经济部长：沙特经济随时准备应对多种油价情景。 ...