Oil Prices Surge as Brent Approaches $83, WTI Nears $78 Amidst Refinery Buying Activity

Oil prices surged as Brent crude oil approached the $83 price level while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) neared $78 as refineries in the United States and China increased purchases.

Brent crude oil, against which Nigerian oil is priced, gained 1.1% on Monday, signaling a bullish trend in the oil market.

The recent uptick in oil prices comes amidst signs of heightened demand from refineries, particularly in key markets like the US and China.

This surge in demand has contributed to the strengthening of timespreads, indicating tighter conditions in the near term.

Market observers are closely monitoring the International Energy Week in London, where industry leaders are convening to discuss the outlook for the global energy market.

Scheduled speakers include Russell Hardy, the CEO of Vitol Group, a major player in the energy sector.

While tensions in the Middle East and production cuts by the OPEC+ alliance have supported crude prices, increased production from non-OPEC+ countries, notably the US, has capped potential gains.

Analysts predict that oil prices may continue to trade within a range, with Brent crude expected to hover around $83, while WTI remains near the $78 mark, barring significant shifts in market dynamics.