WTI gains before report showing higher inventories in U.S.

West Texas Intermediate crude added on Tuesday and was traded close to the weakest level in a week on speculation that the next government report may show an increase in stockpiles in the U.S., the world's largest oil consumer. WTI for settlement in March rose as much as 40 cents to $96.12 per barrel on the NYMEX by 4:25 p.m. in Singapore.