Crude faces volatile week as West Asia supply risks keep markets tense

Crude oil prices are set for another volatile week as West Asian supply risks and stalled US-Iran talks keep markets tense, with analysts warning that any disruption to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz could tighten global supplies further. Investors will monitor weekly US crude inventory data and imports for supply-demand signals, while recent declines in US stockpiles have offered support. A further escalation in geopolitical risks could push Brent crude toward USD 115-120 per barrel, according to Religare Broking's Ajit Mishra. Brent futures rose nearly 5 percent last week to settle at USD 109.86 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate gained about 9 percent to USD 99.02. G7 stock releases and sanctions relief have failed to trigger sustained declines, and the IEA warns of prolonged diesel tightness, with broader supply recovery projected only in 2027.