U.S. Crude Inventories Fall as Fuel Demand Softens

The Energy Information Administration report highlights a tightening market that contrasts with the American Petroleum Institute’s earlier estimate of a 2.6-million-barrel drawdown. Market reaction remained muted on Wednesday morning; Brent crude futures dipped $0.64 to $94.01 per barrel, while WTI fell $0.98 to $89.24. Both benchmarks remain significantly higher than their levels from the previous week.

Refining output reflects shifting consumption patterns. Motor gasoline inventories shed 1.2 million barrels, maintaining a steady daily production rate of 9.8 million barrels. Conversely, middle distillate stocks grew by 800,000 barrels, although total production in that sector slipped to 5.1 million barrels daily. These reserves currently track 14% below the five-year average.

Broader demand metrics suggest a persistent retreat. Total products supplied—a primary proxy for U.S. oil consumption—averaged 20.4 million barrels per day over the last four weeks, marking a 4% decline compared to the same period last year. Gasoline demand remains at 8.9 million barrels per day, while distillate demand has fallen 6% year-over-year.