Oil Prices Steady Amid Mixed Economic Signals and Rate Cut Hopes

Rising U.S. jobless claims and falling crude inventories create uncertainty in oil markets.

Brent crude settled at $85.11 a barrel, while WTI crude closed at $82.82 a barrel.
U.S. crude inventories fell by 4.9 million barrels last week, surpassing forecasts.
Increased U.S. unemployment claims suggest potential economic slowdown.
Expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut may boost future oil demand.
Chinese economic policy remains unclear, affecting global oil consumption outlook.