Inflation vs. Oil The price of crude oil ( NYMEX:CL1! ) is currently facing downward pressure, receiving no support from the current geopolitical landscape, at least for the time being. It appears that the dynamics of inflation are exerting greater influence over the market. The decline in commodity prices could be interpreted as an indication that inflationary pressures are beginning to ease, potentially leading to speculation about a weakening of the US dollar ( TVC:DXY ).