US crude stocks rise, gasoline and distillate inventories fall - EIA says

• Crude inventories increased 6.2 million barrels versus expectations for only a 383,000-barrel rise, indicating weaker demand or higher supply than anticipated
• Gasoline stocks fell 5.4 million barrels (expected: 1.6 million drop) while distillate inventories decreased 2.5 million barrels (expected: 1.5 million drop), suggesting stronger refined product demand
• Refinery utilization rates rose to 91.4%, up 0.6 percentage points, while net U.S. crude imports fell by 692,000 barrels per day

Summary: US Crude Stocks Rise, Gasoline and Distillate Inventories Fall - EIA

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported mixed inventory data for the week ended March 13, 2026, showing a significant divergence from market expectations.

Key Figures:

Crude oil inventories rose by 6.2 million barrels to 449.3 million barrels, substantially exceeding the Reuters poll forecast of a 383,000-barrel increase. At the critical Cushing, Oklahoma delivery hub, stocks increased by 944,000 barrels.

Gasoline inventories fell by 5.4 million barrels to 244 million barrels, more than triple the expected 1.6 million-barrel draw. Distillate stockpiles, including diesel and heating oil, declined by 2.5 million barrels to 116.9 million barrels, surpassing the anticipated 1.5 million-barrel decrease.

Refinery Activity:

Refinery crude runs increased by 63,000 barrels per day, with utilization rates climbing 0.6 percentage points to 91.4%. Despite this uptick, net U.S. crude imports fell by 692,000 barrels per day.

Market Implications:

The larger-than-expected crude build suggests weakening demand or increased domestic production, potentially bearish for oil prices. However, the substantial draws in gasoline and distillate inventories indicate robust product demand, particularly significant given the heightened refinery activity. The sharp gasoline decline may reflect seasonal factors or increased consumption.

This data comes amid broader energy market volatility, with related articles referencing Iran-related geopolitical concerns and their impact on global energy markets. The inventory figures will likely influence near-term trading in crude oil and refined product futures.