Oil prices rise more than 1% on Fed rate cut outlook, signs of rising gasoline demand

Signs of Rising Gasoline Demand

Crude oil futures rose Wednesday. As Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated that interest rates and signs of rising gasoline demand will likely come down this year. Though the central bank is moving cautiously.

The West Texas Intermediate contract for April gained 98 cents, or 1.25%, to settle at $79.13 a barrel. May Brent futures added 92 cents, or 1.12%, to settle at $82.96 a barrel.

Powell told the House Financial Services Committee Wednesday. That the Fed needs to see “a little more data” before moving on rates. Though he expects the central bank will begin loosening policy this year. As it gains more confidence that inflation is under control.

In prepared remarks, the Fed chairman said the central bank thinks rates have peaked. Lower interest rates typically stimulate the economy, which leads to more demand for crude.

Tamas Varga, an analyst at oil broker PVM, told clients in a note Tuesday that uncertainty surrounding interest rate cuts is “public enemy No. 1” of a protracted oil rally.

“The Fed chair’s testimony and the ECB interest rate decision on Thursday could revive hopes for a June reduction in borrowing costs,” Varga wrote in a research note.

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Source: CNBC

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