Headline: Oil steadies as smaller API build tempers bearish mood ahead of EIA report
Introduction: Crude oil prices edged higher after a private American Petroleum Institute survey pointed to a smaller-than-forecast rise in U.S. crude inventories, offering a brief lift to sentiment. Traders now turn to the official Energy Information Administration report for confirmation, with broader macro headwinds still restraining any sustained rally.
The API’s data suggested crude stocks rose by less than the roughly 2 million barrels expected, a potentially supportive signal for West Texas Intermediate. However, the market remains cautious because API figures are less comprehensive than the EIA’s data. Previous EIA numbers showed U.S. crude inventories up by 5.2 million barrels to 421.2 million, highlighting ample supply. At the same time, a firm U.S. dollar and sluggish growth in China continue to weigh on global oil demand and keep a lid on price momentum.
OPEC+ has paused production growth into early 2026, but that stance has not galvanized bullish sentiment given the demand backdrop and high U.S. stockpiles. At the time of analysis, front-month WTI futures were trading near $59.49, hovering around the $59.50 value area. Market participants note a near-term bearish tone while prices stay below $59.75, with a potential shift to a bullish bias if the $60.00 level is reclaimed and held. Until the EIA’s updates clarify the supply picture, oil is likely to trade cautiously within these technical ranges.
Key Points: – API survey signaled a smaller-than-expected build in U.S. crude inventories. – Traders await the EIA’s official report for a more definitive read on stockpiles. – Recent EIA data showed U.S. crude stocks up 5.2 million barrels to 421.2 million. – Strong U.S. dollar and weak China demand continue to cap oil price gains. – OPEC+ has suspended production growth into early 2026, offering limited support. – WTI front-month hovered near $59.50; bearish below $59.75, potential bullish shift above $60.00.
