Omicron variant yet to curb driving across most of Asia in boon for oil

The rapid spread of omicron has yet to dampen road traffic across most of Asia even as it leads to restrictions in parts of Europe, suggesting energy demand in the region may be spared a significant hit.
 

More cars have thronged the main roads in December amid year-end festivities than seen last month. All but one major Asian country registered a rise in mobility on-month, according to data compiled by Bloomberg using Apple Inc. mobility statistics until Dec. 27. 

The broadly positive picture from Asia -- at least so far -- may help to support gasoline demand and refining margins, which