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Cheaper Oil Likely to Stay Awhile

Demand won't quickly return to old levels, and new tech, exploration keeps pressure off

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 18, 2008 4:02 PM CST

(Newser) – Oil prices are down, and they’re likely to stay that way for now, writes Ronald Bailey for Reason. Not only did the recent spike in gas prices drive down demand in the US; it also heightened the effect of domestic and local production. Government mandates, made in response to the surge in oil prices, are likely to curb demand in the US for years.

OPEC, sensing the effect of high prices, has curtailed production in an effort to boost profits. Analysts worry this response will lead to a shortage when fickle US consumers return to the pump. And proponents of alternative energy are scared that sinking gasoline prices will lead to less funding for their projects. So cheap oil might not be such a good thing after all.

A woman at the pump in Massachusetts.
A woman at the pump in Massachusetts.   (AP Photo)
A 7-11 store in Independence, Mo.
A 7-11 store in Independence, Mo.   (AP Photo)
A Bahraini worker moves an oil drum.
A Bahraini worker moves an oil drum.   (AP Photo)
Oil storage tanks in New Jersey.
Oil storage tanks in New Jersey.   (AP Photo)
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The biofuels initiatives aren't going to go away. Even if they are not economically smart, the votes are there to make sure that we stick with these programs. - Tim Evans, Citigroup
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
Guest
Nov 22, 2008 6:54 AM CST
Oil prices are down because speculators can't get their 300% margins to play with anymore.

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