Oil prices down on swelling US crude stocks, easing Middle East tensions

Oil prices declined on Wednesday owing to rising U.S. crude inventories and lessened Middle East tensions following mediation efforts. Brent crude fell to $77.11 per barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate to $73.07. Crude stocks increased by 347,000 barrels, while gasoline and distillate stocks saw reductions. Economic issues in China also influenced the market.