2025.08.1418:45:20UTC+00WTI Prices Rally to One-Week High on Geopolitical Tensions

On Thursday, WTI crude oil futures surged by 2.1%, closing at $64 per barrel, marking a one-week high and ending a two-day decline. This increase was primarily fueled by geopolitical tensions and the anticipation of a potential U.S. interest rate reduction next month that might enhance oil demand. The price rally was triggered after President Trump cautioned of "severe consequences" should his discussions with Russian President Putin regarding Ukraine not succeed, injecting a risk premium due to Russia's position as the second-largest crude oil producer globally. The prospect of a Federal Reserve rate cut in September, supported by weaker consumer inflation data and disappointing employment figures, also contributed to the price gains, despite stronger U.S. producer price data indicating persisting inflationary pressures. Market sentiment was additionally buoyed by the possibility of easing sanctions on Moscow, which could result in increased Russian oil exports. Meanwhile, Norway announced that oil and gas investments would peak this year before beginning to decline, and Mexico reported the arrest of former Pemex CEO Carlos Trevino in the U.S. on corruption allegations.