Oil prices moved higher on Friday as traders weighed fresh geopolitical risks in the Middle East against continued restraint from major producers. Brent crude rose by more than 1% to about $78 a barrel, reflecting renewed concern that supply could stay tight in the months ahead.
The latest move came after OPEC+ kept its production cuts in place, limiting expectations for a quick increase in global output. That decision has helped support prices even as markets watch for signs that slower economic growth could temper demand.
Tensions in the Middle East added another layer of uncertainty. Any escalation in the region tends to raise fears of disruption to shipping routes and energy infrastructure, making oil markets especially sensitive to developments on the ground.
For consumers and businesses, sustained higher crude prices could eventually feed into fuel and transportation costs. Investors will now be watching whether diplomatic efforts ease the regional risks or whether supply concerns continue to outweigh broader demand worries.
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