European Gas Falls as Traders Weigh Tariffs’ Impact on Demand

European natural gas declined for the first time in three days as persistent demand concerns outweighed the threat of increased global competition for supplies.

Benchmark futures closed down 0.3% on indications from the European Union that the bloc had made scant progress bridging differences with the US over sweeping tariffs. The unfolding global trade war has dragged down energy prices this month on speculation a weaker world economy will curb demand.

Europe has emerged from a cold winter with fuel reserves far lower than usual, and will need to purchase more liquefied natural gas to replenish stockpiles over the summer. ...