Asian refiners have increased purchases of U.S. crude as escalating Middle East tensions and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz raise supply concerns. South Korean refiners bought at least 5 million barrels of WTI crude, while Thailand's PTT purchased about 1 million barrels and Japan's Eneos acquired 2 million barrels.

Iran conflict boosts U.S. crude imports from Asia to record levels. Crude oil reaching a new all-time high by December 31 at 14.5% YES.

Chinese refiners are reducing purchases of Saudi crude as weak demand, Gulf competition, and Strait of Hormuz disruptions reshape Asia's oil market.