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After reaching usd 80/bbl, crude prices started to soften on early afternoon hours though still keeping firm over 79/bbl with marginal variations.

Some analysts estimate that considering the present economy, the usd 80/bbl would be the upper limit of consumers tolerance so at least in the short-term higher rates cannot be supported by market fundamentals.

In Singapore, earliest supply date for heavy fuel requirements is generally the 22nd onwards, whereas in some cases schedules have been reported tight until the 25th.

In Jebel Ali, delivery schedules for combined requirements are looking towards the 22st - 23rd, while intermediate ifo and distillate availability is presently reported good.