Why are ASX 200 energy shares having such a stellar Tuesday?

What's going on with the ASX 200 energy shares on the market today?

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Key points
  • The S&P/ASX 200 Energy (ASX: XEJ) index is the best performer across the market today, rising 2.94% during lunchtime trading on Tuesday
  • US president Biden wrapped up talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last week, failing to come up with a deal that would increase Saudi oil production
  • The benchmark oil price is now trading above US$100 per barrel

A number of ASX 200 energy shares are having a terrific day despite the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) heading south.

For context, the Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is up 3.64% to $32.44 while fellow energy giant Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) is trekking 3% higher to $7.375 apiece.

In comparison, the benchmark ASX 200 index is shedding 0.19% to 6,674 points.

Santos share price worker in front of oil mine puts thumbs up

Image source: Getty Images

What's fuelling ASX 200 energy shares today?

Investors are bidding up energy shares after Saudi Arabia refused to make any promises about future oil production increases.

Evidently, this has led the S&P/ASX 200 Energy (ASX: XEJ) index to become the best performing sector across the ASX so far today.

Comprising 11 companies that operate in the oil, gas, and coal sectors, the index is up 2.94% to 10,225 points.

Oil prices shot up to more than US$100 per barrel on global markets overnight and could stay there for the remainder of the year if supply wanes.

According to The Guardian, US president Biden held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Friday.

While officials at a US-Arab summit did not discuss soaring energy costs, the OPEC+ cartel said it would not increase oil output and instead assess market conditions.

With no deal reached, this is driving up energy prices after they hit two-month lows.

The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price is now up 5.13% from last week's close.

In addition, the weaker US dollar is also providing support to commodity markets.

Rising oil prices mean additional revenue for Australia's energy companies, which in turn leads to higher share prices.

This month, the International Energy Agency released its oil market report noting that outlook for oil markets remains uncertain.

It stated that higher prices and a deteriorating economic environment have started to take their toll on oil demand.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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