Muscat: Oil prices today rose in early trade, reversing the previous session’s losses, buoyed by stronger-than-expected economic data from the world’s top oil consumers and signs of easing trade tensions. Brent crude futures rose 27 cents, or 0.39%, to $68.79 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up 31 cents, or 0.47%, at $66.69. Both benchmarks fell more than 0.2% in the previous session.

According to Oman News Agency, the US central bank’s latest snapshot of the economy, released on Wednesday, showed activity picked up in recent weeks. This improvement in economic conditions among major oil-consuming countries has contributed to the current increase in oil prices, highlighting a renewed optimism in the market.

Market analysts suggest that these developments in economic data and trade relations are key factors influencing the positive sentiment, which is expected to sustain the upward trend in oil prices if these conditions persist.