In a robust panel discussion at the Qatar Economic Forum on 23 May, Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman warned short sellers not to bet against Opec+. “I keep advising them that they will be ouching, they did ouch in April. I don’t have to show my cards I’m not a poker player... but I would just tell them watch out.”

The minister’s comments point to Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to preventing further price slides, and has prompted further speculation that Opec+ might take decisive action when it meets in Vienna on 4 June. (CONTINUED - 236 WORDS)