Brent crude rises to $108 after Saudi Arabia closes pipeline

Brent crude rose 3.46% to $108.23 per barrel after Saudi Arabia shut a critical pipeline that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures increased by 3% to $103.14 per barrel. The disruption comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with Brent prices gaining about 9% last week. Analysts note that if the pipeline remains closed beyond a five-to-seven-day inventory cushion, market conditions could change. This is significant for investors as it may impact oil supply and pricing in the near term.