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U.S. Crude Oil Inventories Surge Amid Gasoline Decline

3/19/2026

49 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. crude oil inventories rose 6.16 million barrels to 449.3 million for the week ending March 13, 2026, the fourth straight increase after a prior 1.7 million-barrel drop.
At the Cushing hub, stocks increased by 944,000 barrels.
Refinery activity improved as crude runs rose by 63,000 barrels per day.
Distillate inventories fell by 2.5 million barrels.
Gasoline stocks declined by 5.4 million barrels.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. established the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) in 1975, following the 1973 oil crisis that highlighted the need for energy security. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act mandated a reserve of up to 1 billion barrels to protect against supply disruptions. As of 2023, U.S. crude oil inventories reached 449.3 million barrels, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize energy supply amidst fluctuating demands.

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Story summary

U.S. crude oil inventories rose 6.16 million barrels to 449.3 million for the week ending March 13, 2026, the fourth straight increase after a prior 1.7 million-barrel drop.
At the Cushing hub, stocks increased by 944,000 barrels.
Refinery activity improved as crude runs rose by 63,000 barrels per day.
Distillate inventories fell by 2.5 million barrels.
Gasoline stocks declined by 5.4 million barrels.

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