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Crude oil

Chinese refiners boost oil imports to record high

"Higher teapot demand and stronger refining margins which encouraged higher refinery throughputs have contributed to increased imports," an analyst said.

Hedge funds turn strongly bullish on oil markets

Signs of financial distress across much of the oil industry, coupled with data showing production outside OPEC falling, continued market chatter about an agreement among producers, and evidence of strong demand for gasoline, have allowed hedge funds to construct a more bullish narrative.

Nigeria aims to eliminate refined product imports within next 18 months

Nigeria's four refineries have never reached full production because of sabotage and poor maintenance, causing the country to rely on expensive imported fuel for most of its energy needs.

European refiners increasingly turn to light US oil

Many European refiners face the problem of not having run a US crude through their systems in living memory and, as such, are wary of doing so, even though the numbers might make economic sense.

Kuwait refines crude pricing strategy in battle for European customers

Large sales from Iraq's Kurdistan into Europe have added to the competition and now Kuwait -- a usually little-noticed seller in Europe -- is both increasing sales and making its crude more attractive.

Low oil plays uneven role in global gasoline prices

All countries have access to the same oil prices on international markets, but retail gasoline prices vary wildly, largely because of the taxes and subsidies imposed on them.

Saudis raise crude prices for Asian refiners as demand strengthens

The Saudis have become more convinced that the demand gains in oil from Asian refiners are sustainable, giving them the confidence to start raising prices.

Rising US refinery runs lend support to oil prices

Analysts said that the minimal price movement on Thursday was due to bullish and bearish fundamentals offsetting each other.

Iran to raise oil exports in March amid more sales to European refiners

Litasco, the trading arm of Russia's Lukoil, Cepsa and Total have become the first buyers in Europe after the lifting of sanctions and lifted trial cargoes in February.

ExxonMobil CEO eyes new acquisitions, forecasts lower capital spending

Exxon's oil and gas production rose 3.2% in 2015, as its downstream refining unit provided some insulation against the impact of falling oil prices on its upstream.