Crude oil futures down on weak Asian cues

Crude oil futures prices today fell by 0.76 per cent to Rs 6,122 per barrel after speculators indulged in reducing positions triggered by weak Chinese data.
The trading sentiment weakened at futures trade after crude oil prices declined in Asian trade as data showing weak Chinese manufacturing activity fuelled concerns over energy demand in the world's second largest economy, marketmen said.
At the Multi Commodity Exchange, crude oil for delivery in February fell Rs 47, or 0.76 per cent, to Rs 6,122 per barrel in 1,749 lots.
Similarly, the oil for March delivery moved down by Rs 39, or 0.63 per cent, to Rs 6,120 per barrel in 140 lots.

Meanwhile, crude oil for March delivery eased 51 cents at USD 96.98 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange in mid-morning trade today.