Oil Prices Climb Amid Firming Demand and Geopolitical Tensions
Energy markets react to stronger demand outlook and Middle East instability, with crude oil and other commodities seeing gains.
- U.S. crude oil prices rose above $80 per barrel, continuing recent gains despite mixed economic data from China.
- Brent crude futures also increased, supported by investor confidence in OPEC+ production decisions.
- Retail sales in China exceeded expectations, boosting demand outlook, though industrial output lagged.
- Middle East tensions, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, have added a risk premium to oil prices.
- Gold, silver, and other commodities saw price increases, reflecting broader market movements.