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Oil rises on U.S. unrefined storage draw, Fed rate cut hopes

Oil rates increased in early trade on Thursday as diminishing U.S. crude inventories signified tighter supply, and amidst rising hopes that the Federal Reserve would cut rates of interest by the end of the year.

Brent unrefined futures for July rose 23 cents to $83.81. a barrel by 0033 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude for. June was up 29 cents to $79.28 per barrel.

Crude stocks dropped last week by 1.4 million barrels. to 459.5 million barrels, according to the Energy Details. Administration, more than analysts' expectations in a . survey for a 1.1 million-barrel draw as refinery activity. increased.

Rising gas stocks, which swelled unexpectedly by more. than 900,000 barrels in the week to 228 million barrels, the EIA. stated, kept prices from moving higher.

Increasing expectations that the U.S. central bank will cut. interest rates by year end after weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs. data likewise improved oil costs. Lower interest rates can increase. costs on crude oil.

Hopes for a ceasefire in the Middle East, however, with the. U.S. stating earlier in the week that negotiations on a Gaza. ceasefire should have the ability to close the gaps between Israel and. Hamas settlements, kept oil rates from moving greater.

(source: Reuters)