Crude oil prices made gains on Thursday following the release of government data showing gasoline and distillate drawdowns in the U.S.
Plus, there was the continuing worry among traders about Russia, Ukraine and supply disruptions. Gains occurred even after U.S. crude oil stockpiles increased more than expected.
West Texas Intermediate crude in the U.S. gained 32 cents or 0.44% to settle at $72.57 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Brent crude finished up 44 cents or 0.58% at $76.48 a barrel.
After making gains this week, natural gas prices fell 13 cents or 2.99% to settle Thursday at $4.15 per MMBtu.
Oklahoma energy stocks split the day in trading with gains and losses were about the same.
Vital Energy plunged more than 12% in trading following its latest financial report showing large losses in the fourth quarter. A more than 5% gain was recorded by Helmerich and Payne.
