Crude oil and refined energy products continued their downward trajectory as markets prepare for the trading week of January 11, 2026. According to Calculated Risk, WTI crude futures were trading near $59.37 per barrel, while Brent crude sat at $63.60 per barrel. The declines mark a notable shift from comparable levels one year prior, when WTI traded at approximately $77 per barrel and Brent at $80.
Year-over-year comparisons underscore the broader softening in energy markets. WTI prices have fallen roughly 24 percent since January 2025, reflecting shifting supply-demand dynamics and broader economic conditions. Gasoline prices, which serve as a key indicator of consumer energy costs, have declined even more substantially. According to GasBuddy data, national average prices stand at $2.74 per gallon, down $0.29 or approximately 9.6 percent from $3.03 per gallon a year ago.
Equity futures pointed to a cautious market open, with S&P 500 futures down 16 points and Dow futures declining 104 points on a fair-value basis. The softer tone in both energy and equities suggests investors are positioning defensively ahead of the week's economic calendar and corporate earnings activity.
