WTI Crude Gains on Maritime Risk and Surprise US Stock Draws

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Geopolitical War Premium

New security alerts in the Persian Gulf have kept a risk premium of $4-$5 active. While non-OPEC production growth remains a long-term headwind, the immediate risk of shipping disruptions is driving the market.

Refinery Throughput

US Gulf Coast refineries are maintaining high run rates to capitalize on strong gasoline crack spreads, creating a steady bid for domestic barrels despite the broader macro cooling.