What happened
US API Cushing crude oil inventories for the week ending September 18 came in at 2.082 million barrels, according to data reported by Jinshi Data Express.
The prior week's reading was -246,000 barrels, indicating a drawdown at that time.
Why it matters
The swing from a prior draw to a build at Cushing points to a shift in the supply-demand balance at the key US crude storage hub.
Cushing inventory changes are closely watched because the hub serves as the delivery point for benchmark US crude futures.
Key facts
API Cushing crude inventories for the week to Sept 18: 2.082 million barrels.
Prior week's reading: -246,000 barrels.
Source: Jinshi Data Express, published via East Money.
What to watch next
Whether subsequent inventory data confirm the build reported by the API for the same week.
How the shift at Cushing feeds into broader sentiment around US crude stock levels.
