Equinor Shares Jump 5.1% as Gas Prices Surge Above €60/MWh
Damage at Ras Laffan wiped out 17% of Qatar's LNG exports, lifting European gas prices above €60/MWh and driving Brent forecasts to $92.7/barrel in 2026. Equinor shares rose 5.1% on heavy volume as analysts raised 2026 earnings estimates, citing premium spot exposure to tighter gas supply.
1. Supply Disruption at Ras Laffan and Impact on Gas Markets
Damage to Ras Laffan facilities removed roughly 17% of Qatar’s LNG export capacity, tightening global balances and pushing European gas prices above €60/MWh. This shortage prompted a revision of Brent crude forecasts to $92.7 per barrel in 2026 and $80.2 in 2027, reflecting prolonged constraints.
2. Equinor Benefits from Spot Exposure, Shares Rise
Equinor’s high share of unhedged production exposed to spot market pricing positioned the company to capture gains as gas prices spiked, driving its shares up 5.1% on heavy trading volume. Analysts responded by raising 2026 earnings estimates, citing the company’s integrated gas trading strength and leverage to tighter supply.