Oil is getting more expensive despite a sharp increase in reserves in the United States

Oil prices continue to rise after yesterday's sharp collapse to the level of $73.65 per barrel. The current Brent quote is $75.60. The prices are supported by fears of possible risks to supplies due to tensions in the Middle East. It is expected that Israel may retaliate against Iran after the rocket attack.

The oil market is focused on the escalation of the Middle East crisis, as the region provides about a third of the world's oil supplies. Market participants fear that possible strikes on energy infrastructure or blocking routes could disrupt supplies. 

Citigroup Inc. estimates that if Israel strikes Iran's export facilities, the global market could lose up to 1.5 million barrels of oil per day. If the attack affects less significant facilities, for example, processing plants, losses can range from 300,000 to 450,000 barrels. Against this background, OPEC+ confirmed its intentions to increase oil production in December, restoring suspended capacities.

Meanwhile, data from the United States showed an unexpected increase in oil reserves – by 3.9 million barrels last week, which was the largest increase in the last five months. This factor, together with the statements of OPEC+, restrains a sharper price increase.