Despite macro uncertainties, trading crude oil futures are attracting portfolio inflows from diversified commodity funds, now holding their largest crude allocation since early Brent crude futures dropped $4.90 last week as traders positioned for a larger-than-expected production increase. When the economy thrives, demand also rises in industries such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, energy and transport, as they require greater supplies. Thus, the price of WTI oil will rise if demand exceeds supply. Conversely, WTI oil prices will decrease during periods of economic decline. Physical crude market strength in the Gulf Coast has fed into trading crude oil futures sentiment. Cash differentials for LLS crude rose to $1.25 over WTI, marking the highest in six months and signaling robust regional demand. Such trends typically precede short-term futures price extensions.