Crude oil prices fluctuated above the $100 per barrel level on Monday. Monetary policy outlook shifts as rate cut bets diminishAs the war persists, the probability of interest rate cuts has diminished. However, the market viewed the war through the lens of rising energy prices and inflation, increasing the likelihood of interest rates remaining tight for longer. Rising oil prices increased inflation expectations, which in turn reduced the chances of rate cuts, pressing down on gold. Bets on a quick rate cut shrank as energy prices climbed.

Source: Daily News Egypt March 16, 2026 17:10 UTC