Oil prices steady as investors assess US-Iran war outlook

TOKYO, Aug 20 : Oil prices steadied in early trade on Thursday as investors assessed the outlook for the U.S.-Iran war and the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures for October delivery rose 25 cents, or 0.3 per cent, to $91.87 a barrel by 0037 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures for September slipped 2 cents to $85.81 a barrel. The more active October WTI contract gained 14 cents, or 0.2 per cent, to $84.53.Both Brent and WTI benchmarks gained for a fourth straight session on Wednesday, settling at their highest since July 24. The September WTI contract expires later on Thursday. "Oil prices remained elevated as the market is supported by sporadic attacks in the Middle East but lacks fresh momentum without a major escalation," said Hiroyu