In today's energy markets, WTI Crude Oil futures experienced continued upward momentum, reaching their highest levels since the second week of June. Prices rallied near 82.15 as the August contract prepared to roll into September. A primary factor driving this price action is ongoing geopolitical tension in the Middle East. With no signs of tensions softening, the market is experiencing a historical weekend effect, where uncertainty heading into the weekend generates additional buying pressure. After rebounding from late June lows, WTI Crude Oil futures have trended consistently higher throughout July, establishing strong five-week highs.