Oil prices were stronger today after falling off for the last couple sessions. Market fundamentals dominated trader sentiments through much of Thursday as fears of Middle East supply disruptions have eased, said Jim Burkhard, vice president and head of research for oil markets at S&P Global Commodity Insights. “The onset of the Israel-Hamas war does fuel volatility and bring additional risks, but it has not affected underlying oil market fundamentals,” Burkhard said. “Oil prices have remained below where they were in late September – a week before the Hamas attack. Strong oil market fundamentals are prevailing over any fears at the moment.” Some macro fears are adding to the strain on prices as comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell today indicating possible future interest rate hikes shook financial markets. WTI traded up $.41 or .54% to close at $75.74. Brent traded up $.47 or .59% to close at $80.01.