Oil sector to continue to face challenges given lower global crude prices, but overall economic prospects remain broadly positive.

Downwards revision based on continued dependence on the oil and gas sector despite diversification measures.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) — Oil prices are expected to fall to US$66 per barrel in the second quarter of 2026 (2Q 2026), following a stronger performance of US$78 per barrel in the first quarter (1Q 2026), before gradually recovering towards year-end, according to BMI. The research unit of Fitch Solutions said its forecast remains unchanged, with Brent crude projected at an annual average of US$70 per barrel for 2026. The outlook assumes a relatively rapid post-conflict recovery, with limited lasting damage to critical upstream production and export infrastructure, as well as a two-to-four week normalisation of flows through […]