During a regular press briefing, IMF spokesperson Julie Kozak noted that while oil markets continue to fluctuate and global stockpiles fall, prices are holding steady near projected levels. On Thursday, Brent crude traded at approximately $86.18 per barrel—about 3% higher than the $82.22 average price underpinning the IMF's 3.1% global growth forecast.

The IMF’s April outlook had assumed a swift resolution to Middle East tensions following a sharp price spike in March. Kozak emphasized that future price stability will now depend heavily on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.