Why Is Crude Oil Trending Higher?

In my January 15, 2026, Barchart article on the energy sector in Q4, 2025, and the prospects for 2026, I highlighted that NYMEX crude oil futures declined 7.94% in Q4 and were 19.34% lower in 2025, settling at $57.42 per barrel on December 31, 2025. I concluded the report with the following: When it comes to crude oil, prices remain near the lows, and I expect lower lows over the coming weeks and months as increased U.S. and OPEC production, and the potential for U.S. control of Venezuelan crude oil, could ...