After three consecutive losing sessions, crude-oil futures closed higher Tuesday, amid a rally in the broader equities markets. A faltering dollar and strong import data from China, coupled with potential supply interruptions by way of Iran and Nigeria, lifted the commodity to a win. By the close, February-dated crude added 93 cents, or 0.9%, to land at $102.24 a barrel.
Similarly, gold futures reversed their two-day slide, ending with their best settlement in four weeks. As EU leaders continue to try to right the region's financial problems, the greenback softened, attracting investors back to the precious metal. Against this backdrop, gold for February delivery added $23.40, or 1.5%, to finish at $1,631.50 an ounce, marking its highest close since Dec. 13.
Levels to Watch in Trading:
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