Doha: Oil prices fell on Wednesday after gaining in the previous session, as markets assessed expectations that the end of the longest government shutdown in US history could boost demand in the world’s largest oil consumer. Brent crude futures declined by 8 cents, or 0.12%, to settle at $65.08 per barrel, after rising 1.7% in the previous session. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures also slipped by 7 cents, or 0.11%, to $60.97 per barrel, following a 1.5% gain on Monday.

According to Qatar News Agency, analysts said prices eased as investors took profits after Monday’s rally, while focusing on signs of potential demand recovery once government operations resume fully in the United States.