WTI Crude Gains on US Inventory Draw and Persistent Middle East Security Risks

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Geopolitical War Premium

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

Refinery Throughput Demand

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