Oil holds steady as Biden considers releasing SPR

While oil prices have become exceedingly volatile in recent times after rising supply concerns and various production issues, prices have managed to stabilise with WTI hovering in the $80 range after retreating from a high of almost $85 reached last week. Meanwhile, calls on president Biden to release the country's strategic petroleum reserves (SPR) have mounted, as concerns for the rising price of gasoline has led many US politicians, including senate majority leader Schumer to pressure the president. This comes after OPEC decided once again to leave the rate of increase in production unchanged, despite oil prices having a significant impact on consumer activity and playing a significant part in the recent inflation discussions. While there is a lack of major data releases today, traders will be looking for any news relating to the supply of oil as an announcement by the US president could cause a short term immediate reaction for prices, while it's long term impact could ultimately be less significant. 

Stock markets on edge after mixed Chinese data

European indices have managed to start the day almost unchanged after a mostly positive Asian session, which saw the majority of stocks in the region gain slightly despite the mixed Chinese data. While Chinese industrial production increased 3.5% YoY in October (exp. 3.0% YoY) and retail sales were 4.9% YoY higher (exp. 3.5% YoY), urban investments increased only by 6.1% YoY (exp. 6.3% YoY) and showed the lowest daily steel output since December 2017 along with an alarming 17% drop in cement output, which is an important indicator for construction activity in the world's second largest economy. Investors could be more cautious heading into this week as several central bankers are expected to share their outlook on economic growth and as Wall Street earnings season nears its conclusion.