Core Insights - Oil prices increased by more than $1 a barrel due to stalled export negotiations from Iraq's Kurdistan, alleviating concerns about global oversupply [1][2] - Brent crude futures rose by $1.06 (1.6%) to $67.63 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude increased by $1.13 (1.8%) to $63.41 per barrel [1] Oil Export Dynamics - Pipeline oil exports from Iraq's Kurdistan to Turkey remain halted, with a deal to resume exports of approximately 230,000 barrels per day still pending [2] - The deadlock has persisted since March 2023, as key producers are seeking debt repayment guarantees [2] Market Sentiment - Analysts indicate that the market reacted negatively to initial reports of a Kurdistan deal, but the absence of a finalized agreement has removed those anticipated barrels from the market [3] - The global oil market is facing challenges from elevated supply and slowing demand, influenced by the rise of electric vehicles and economic pressures from U.S. tariffs [3] Supply Outlook - The International Energy Agency forecasts a rapid increase in world oil supply this year, with a potential surplus expanding by 2026 due to increased output from OPEC+ and non-OPEC sources [4] - Traders are closely monitoring the European Union's potential stricter sanctions on Russian oil exports and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East [4] Inventory Trends - Low OECD oil inventories are seen as a supportive factor for prices, while increased crude exports from OPEC+ and the absence of new sanctions on Russian oil exports pose challenges [5] - Recent data indicates a decline in U.S. crude and gasoline stocks, with crude stocks falling by 3.82 million barrels and gasoline inventories decreasing by 1.05 million barrels [6]