Oil Heads for 3rd Weekly Gain
WTI crude oil futures rose over 2% to surpass $75.5 per barrel on Friday, reaching the highest level since October, driven by a drop in US crude stockpiles. Cold weather in the US reduced inventory levels at Cushing, Oklahoma, to their lowest since 2014. The global oil market is tightening due to reduced supply from key exporters like Russia and Iran, as well as a surge in demand for heating fuels. The rise in oil prices is also linked to fears surrounding US policy under President-elect Donald Trump, including potential sanctions on Iran and trade conflicts that could disrupt energy flows. Trump’s plans to authorize new drilling and impose tariffs on Canadian imports, including oil, further heightened market concerns. Oil is now heading for its third consecutive weekly gain.