US Private Energy Inventories (bbls): Crude -4.5mln (exp -1.8mln), Distillate -4.6mln (exp. -2.5mln), Gasoline -5.2mln (exp. -1.3mln), Cushing +0.7mln

The latest US private energy inventory data shows larger-than-expected declines in crude, distillate, and gasoline stocks, suggesting stronger demand or supply constraints than previously anticipated. This could indicate upward pressure on oil prices and also has implications for inflation as energy prices are a critical driver. The increase in Cushing inventories, however, could cap price gains short-term as it reflects localized supply conditions.