The Energy Select Sector SPDR (NYSEArca: XLE), the largest equity-based energy exchange traded fund, has faltered over the past couple of days, but that is not changing some market observers’ bullish views on the resurgent sector.
A combination of diminished global output and rising global demand have helped reduce the global supply glut that dragged on oil prices for years. Production cuts from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies have largely contributed to the cut in supply. Meanwhile, expanding economies around the world has bolstered demand for raw materials such as crude oil.
“Oil prices started the day out strong, with worries about U.S. sanctions hitting Iranian oil, pushing crude above $80 per barrel again,” reports Teresa Rivas for Barron’s. “Traders were responding to tough talk from Washington, as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo set out a new list of demands that he said Iran must meet before the U.S. enters a new nuclear pact with the country.”
The Companies That Were the Worst Hit
Oil and gas exploration and production companies have been leading the charge, which does not come as a surprise as this segment was among the worst off during the selling when oil prices plunged. Exploration and production companies were among the worst hit due to their close ties to the upstart hydraulic fracturing or fracking industry that has developed alongside advancements in the shale oil industry.
“Vermillion Research argues that there are more gains ahead for the sector, after it was last week’s best performer, thanks to higher oil prices,” according to Barron’s. “David Nicoski writes that energy is at the top of his relative strength rankings, and given continued improvements he reiterated his bullish call on the heels of his upgrade of energy last week, advising investors to ‘add exposure on any pullbacks.’”
XLE is up about 5% this month. The ETF has seen second-quarter outflows of $559.20 million.
Rivals to XLE include the Vanguard Energy ETF (NYSEArca: VDE), iShares U.S. Energy ETF (NYSEArca: IYE) and the Fidelity MSCI Energy Index ETF (NYSEArca: FENY).
For more information on the oil market, visit our energy category.
The opinions and forecasts expressed herein are solely those of Tom Lydon, and may not actually come to pass. Information on this site should not be used or construed as an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation for any product.