Crude prices were slightly higher today after data showed a stabilizing US jobs market. Wednesday’s slower-than-expected U.S. inflation data for April also fed market expectations for a September cut in interest rates, which could temper dollar strength and make greenback-denominated oil more affordable for holders of other currencies. “Even though the jobless claims were low, the report was weak enough that it’s going to allow the Fed to get in and cut,” said John Kilduff of Again Capital. “The strong employment trends do portend strong gasoline demand as we look out, even though it has been lackluster.” U.S. gasoline demand, however, continued to land under 9 million barrels per day for a sixth straight week, below what is typical heading into the summer driving season, which officially kicks off on the Memorial Day weekend at the end of the month. WTI traded up $.60 or .8% to close $79.23. Brent traded up $.52 or .6% to close at $83.27.