FTSE 100 Live: Stocks Set for Rebound, Pounds Sits Close to $1.32

Oil prices retreated on Friday as news emerged that the U.S. and Iran were discussing a phased deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key sea route for oil shipments. Despite this development, tensions remained high due to a Houthi missile attack on Saudi Arabia, which renewed concerns about Saudi oil infrastructure and export routes.

Brent Oil Futures fell 0.6% to $105.94 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures dropped 0.8% to $93.86 per barrel. Saudi Arabia intercepted six ballistic missiles launched by Iran-backed Houthis, targeting locations such as Taif and Yanbu on the Red Sea. The security situation is particularly concerning because Yanbu is a major Red Sea export hub linked to Saudi Arabia's eastern oil fields.

The U.S. and Iranian negotiators in New York are considering a phased approach to end the conflict, which could involve Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, this proposal has drawn resistance from both parties, as they are reluctant to compromise their positions. Meanwhile, U.S. inventory data showed a significant increase in commercial crude stocks, with a 3 million barrel rise in the week ending Sept.

18, surpassing analysts' expectations. Gasoline inventories declined by 1.7 million barrels, and distillates decreased by 400,000 barrels. The administration is also exploring options to boost domestic diesel supplies, including the possibility of a voluntary export ban, although the White House has denied this.