Oil on Track for Second Week of Gains amid Supply Concerns

Oil prices were little changed in early trading today:il prices were little changed in early trading today, but remained on track for a second consecutive weekly gain as the stalemate between the United States and Iran persisted and concerns grew over energy supplies in the Middle East. Brent crude futures edged up four cents to $93.82 a barrel after rising 2.4 percent in the previous session. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures slipped six cents to $86.78 a barrel, following a 2.3 percent gain on Thursday. According to Qatar News Agency, over the past five days, Brent has climbed more than 7 percent, while U.S. crude has advanced more than 8 percent, with both benchmarks reaching their highest levels since July 24.