Middle East crude oil premiums tumble to pre-war levels amid ample supply

Middle Eastern crude exports have increased in September and October, leading to declining spot premiums. Dubai's cash premium to swaps fell to 65 cents a barrel before recovering slightly. Murban crude exports reached a record of 2.4 million barrels per day in September. Asian refiners have shown reduced purchasing interest due to cooling refining margins. Competition with West African crude is intensifying as sellers offer steeper discounts to attract buyers.