Oil prices steadied on Wednesday after a sharp decline in the previous session, supported by OPEC+ supply cuts and persistent uncertainty over the conflict in the Middle East. Brent crude rose by 0.3% to $74.47 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate climbed 0.4% to $70.86. The market remains cautious as fears of a potential escalation involving Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah continue, despite earlier reports that eased concerns about direct strikes on Iran's oil infrastructure.
OPEC+ supply curbs are expected to continue supporting the market until December, though analysts predict that 2025 could be better supplied, potentially putting downward pressure on oil prices.
On the demand side, both the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and the International Energy Agency have cut their 2024 oil demand growth forecasts, with China contributing significantly to these downgrades. Despite ongoing economic stimulus in China, oil prices have seen limited support from these measures.
The market is also anticipating the latest US oil inventory data, with analysts expecting an increase in crude stockpiles by about 1.8 million barrels for the week ending Oct 11.
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