Crude Inventories Rise by 3 Million Barrels; WTI Oil Prices Stay Under Pressure
August 13, 2025 – By Vladimir Zernov
The EIA report shows more oil on hand. The report tells us that stocks grew by about 3 million barrels from last week. Analysts expected a drop of 0.8 million barrels. Total stocks now sit about 6% below the five-year average. This fact tells us that supply remains tight by past measures.
Key Inventory and Production Highlights
- Strategic Petroleum Reserve: The reserve moved from 403.0 million barrels to 403.2 million barrels. This small change fits the pattern we see in recent weeks.
- Domestic Oil Production: U.S. output went from 13.284 million barrels per day to 13.327 million barrels per day. Analysts point out that if production crosses 13.4 million barrels per day, more growth may follow as oil prices hold.
- Crude Oil Imports: Imports jumped by 958,000 barrels per day to about 6.9 million barrels daily. The strong rise in imports is the main cause of the overall stock gain.
- Gasoline and Distillate Stocks: Motor gasoline stocks dropped by 0.8 million barrels, which is a bit less than the one million barrel drop some had forecast. Distillate fuel stocks went up by 0.7 million barrels.
Market Reaction and Oil Price Movement
After the report came out, WTI crude oil prices dropped. WTI now fights to stay above $62.50 per barrel. Investors feel unease with the jump in oil stocks. At the same time, Brent crude fell toward $65.50 per barrel after the report.
The report shows a strong link between more imports and slow domestic production growth. Traders keep a close watch on the supply of and demand for oil. They track seasonal fuel use and any global events.
Outlook and Economic Context
The report shows that stocks grew more than many expected. Yet, stocks still stay below normal levels. This fact tells us that market tightness has not faded. The steady rise in domestic production shows that U.S. producers adjust to current oil prices. Ongoing gains will come only if prices stay above key levels.
For more updates on energy data and oil price trends, readers can check the FXEmpire economic calendar and the commodity news sections.
About the Author:
Vladimir Zernov is an independent trader with more than 18 years in financial markets. He studies stocks, futures, forex, indices, and commodities to track both long- and short-term trends.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and is not investment advice. Readers should do their own research and speak with a financial expert before taking any trading actions.