Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) – Crude oil futures reached below USD 70 level per barrel in the New York Mercantile Exchange during the week. The crude price reduction was caused by diminished fuel demand and increased inventory.

Copper futures advanced to a 10-month high initially on positive economic outlook but retreated during the week as declining equities fueled concern that surge in metal prices was exaggerated.

Aluminum dropped to USD 1,953.50 per ton, 2.57 percent lower than last week, according to reports.

Gold dropped to USD 946.60, a decline of 2.14 percent compared to last week. Investor appetite for precious metals was curbed due to a weakening stock market.

BBN/SS/SI/AD-15August09-12:53 am (BST)