Noida, Sep 16 (APAC Media): Oil prices eased on Wednesday after a larger-than-expected rise in U.S. crude inventories offset concerns about supply disruptions in the Middle East.
Brent crude futures fell 0.5% to $108.22 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude slipped 0.8% to $105 a barrel. The decline came a day after both benchmarks posted strong gains as traders assessed the potential impact of disruptions to oil supplies from the region.
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The latest pressure on prices came from U.S. inventory data. The American Petroleum Institute reported that crude stocks rose by 7.14 million barrels in the week ended Sept. 11, well above expectations for a 1.8-million-barrel decline.
The unexpected increase suggested that U.S. crude supplies remained relatively comfortable despite concerns over disruptions elsewhere.
“The API data indicated that despite global supply disruptions, stockpiles in the world’s largest fuel consumer remained steady,” the report said.
The inventory build also came as the United States continued drawing crude from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Energy Information Administration data showed that SPR inventories had fallen by nearly 130 million barrels in 2026, leaving stocks at about 285.36 million barrels.
Still, supply concerns in the Middle East continued to provide support to oil prices.
Saudi Arabia halted oil loadings at Yanbu after shutting its East-West pipeline following attacks involving Yemen-based Houthis, according to the report. The developments have raised concerns about the security of regional energy infrastructure and the movement of crude.
Oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have also remained significantly below normal levels amid the continuing tensions between the United States and Iran. The waterway is a crucial route for global oil supplies, making any prolonged disruption a major concern for traders.
Despite Wednesday’s decline, Brent remained almost 4% higher for the week. It had also gained roughly 8% in each of the previous two weeks as markets reacted to growing fears of supply disruptions.
“Crude was also subject to some profit-taking after appreciating sharply in recent weeks,” the report said.
Investors were also awaiting the Federal Reserve’s policy decision, adding another source of uncertainty for financial and commodity markets.
The combination of rising U.S. inventories and persistent geopolitical risks left oil prices caught between competing forces. While stronger stockpiles weighed on the market, concerns over Middle East supply disruptions continued to limit the downside.
Traders will now focus on official U.S. inventory figures and developments in the Middle East for further direction, with both factors likely to remain important for oil prices in the near term.
–ENDS–
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information. APAC Media is not responsible for investment decisions or losses. Please conduct your own research or consult a financial adviser before investing.
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