Natural gas inventories are rising as spring demand weakens, while WTI crude oil surges near multi-year highs on escalating geopolitical tensions, creating a volatile and diverging energy market outlook.
U.S. natural gas storage fell by 242 Bcf in the latest report, exceeding seasonal norms and sending futures up more than 3% as traders reacted to shifting weather forecasts and renewed market volatility.
Energy Transfer LP is set to invest up to $5.5 billion in capital projects in 2026, emphasizing natural gas pipeline and processing expansions. The company’s strategy marks a decisive shift from LNG development to domestic infrastructure growth, targeting strong returns and higher adjusted EBITDA.
U.S. natural gas storage fell by 119 Bcf in early January, tightening supplies and lifting futures to $3.50/MMBtu as production slipped, LNG exports hit record levels, and cooler weather forecasts boosted market sentiment.
The latest EIA weekly report shows U.S. working gas inventories at 3,915 Bcf as of October 31 2025, a modest 33 Bcf build yet still 162 Bcf above the five-year average. With strong production and surging LNG exports, the market remains well-supplied — but elevated inventories, warm weather and global flows may keep price upside in check.
