DM Real GDP and WTI Crude Oil (Leading Indicator) Chart suggesting that the 18-month rate of change of WTI crude oil (inverted) tends to lead DM real GDP by 18 months. Image: Topdown Charts

WTI Price and Brent Price vs. Oil Inventory Oil inventories suggest that the price of oil is currently fairly priced. Image: Pictet Wealth Management

Does Surging Oil Prices Cause Recession? Historically, a rise oil prices can cause recession because high inflation tends to lead to higher interest rates. But nowadays, oil shale production in the US limits the rise in oil prices and makes it possible to avoid a future crisis like the one in 2008.