International crude oil prices declined on January 6, ending a streak of five consecutive trading days of increases. The decline was due to a decrease in new orders for US commercial aircraft in November and a higher-than-expected German inflation rate in December.

However, despite the fall in crude oil prices, interest in energy trading remains strong.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for February delivery decreased by US$0.40 (0.5%), reaching US$73.56/barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Brent crude for March delivery declined by US$0.21 (0.3%), settling at US$76.30/barrel.