Oil higher on strong US demand, Fed policy in focus

FILE PHOTO: A 3D-printed oil pump jack is seen in front of displayed OPEC logo in this illustration picture. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic

SINGAPORE: Oil prices rose on Wednesday on expectations of strong global demand, including in the world's top consumer the United States, and as even somewhat sticky U.S. inflation did not significantly alter expectations the Fed might start cutting rates soon.

Brent futures for May delivery rose 46 cents, or 0.6%, to $82.38 a barrel by 0400 GMT. April U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude contract gained 47 cents, or 0.6%, to$78.03.