WTI (Feb) closes above 2%:Geopolitical risks and crude oil inventory changes are key factors
Rising geopolitical risks Geopolitical risk has risen due to the recent missile attack between Iran and Pakistan, which could increase instability in the Middle East if it escalates, as both countries are unofficial nuclear powers. However, the overall risk of escalation is relatively low given that the attacks were targeted at terrorist strongholds, there was no significant civilian casualties, and trade between the two countries has resumed. Additionally, the conflict between Israel and Palestine continues as the U.S. seeks to stabilize risks in the region. Crude oil inventory changes According to a report from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), crude oil inventories in the US declined more than expected, which stimulated oil prices. In particular, extreme cold in North Dakota disrupted crude oil production and pipeline outages caused supply disruptions. These issues are expected to accelerate the decline in crude oil inventories in the near term, which will also affect ...