Crude Oil Prices Stay High on May 21, 2026, Up 64% in a Year

Crude oil prices are at $100.46 for WTI and $106.42 for Brent on May 21, 2026. This is a 64% increase from one year ago.

Today, on May 21, 2026, crude oil prices settled at elevated figures. The benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) measure stood between 100.15 USD and 100.46 USD per barrel during active trading. Another primary global indicator, Brent crude, recorded 106.42 USD for the day. These numbers denote an ongoing upward shift in the resource's assigned worth across various exchanges.

The crude oil value, specifically the WTI-aligned figure of 100.46 USD/Bbl, showed a 2.23% increase from the previous day's close. Over the preceding month, this same commodity experienced an 8.06% climb. Notably, compared to this date one year prior, the price has risen by 64.14%. These numerical movements originate from various market instruments, including [contracts for difference](https://tradingeconomics.com/commodity/crude-oil) that track established commodity benchmarks.

This present valuation places the commodity considerably below its historical high of 147.27 USD, observed in July 2008. Yet, current computations indicate a continuing trajectory; one predictive model suggests the price could reach 105.12 USD within seven days, reflecting a potential 4.67% change from current spot values. The various assessments underpinning such market postures are routinely refreshed, sometimes every minute, informing participants of immediate shifts.

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The global energy sphere monitors [oil prices](https://www.oilpriceapi.com/oil-prices-today) through distinct benchmarks such as WTI and Brent crude, each serving as a reference point for diverse economic zones. These figures are not static but represent a fluid landscape, shaped by constant transactions and varied analyses, updated in real-time by digital data streams that continuously reflect market conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What were the crude oil prices on May 21, 2026?
On May 21, 2026, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil traded between $100.15 and $100.46 per barrel. Brent crude was priced at $106.42 per barrel.
Q: How much have oil prices increased recently?
WTI crude oil prices increased by 2.23% from the previous day and have risen 8.06% in the last month.
Q: What is the year-over-year change in crude oil prices?
Crude oil prices have seen a significant increase of 64.14% compared to the same date one year ago.
Q: What is the outlook for crude oil prices in the next week?
One prediction model suggests that crude oil prices could reach $105.12 per barrel within the next seven days, indicating a potential further increase.
Q: Why are crude oil prices so high?
Crude oil prices are influenced by various market factors and trading instruments, leading to the current elevated figures and ongoing upward trend observed on May 21, 2026.