Crude oil prices advanced in early trading as global equity markets retreated, driven by a broadening selloff in the technology sector.
Investors are increasingly questioning the sustainability of the artificial intelligence rally that has powered gains earlier this year, prompting a shift in risk appetite across asset classes.
Brent crude and WTI benchmarks moved higher, reversing some of the sharp declines seen in June when sentiment had pivoted away from energy assets.
The rise in oil prices suggests that despite the broader equity weakness, supply-side concerns or safe-haven flows into commodities are providing support.
Meanwhile, US equity-index futures fell alongside Asian stocks, with chipmakers bearing the brunt of the selling pressure.
The divergence between energy and technology highlights a growing rotation in market positioning.