BS: Oil up near US$109 as China data points to recovery
LONDON - Crude oil rose towards US$109 a barrel on Friday on a brighter outlook for the economy in China, the world's second-largest oil consumer, but worries about the impact of a possible US fiscal crisis capped gains.
Brent crude was on course to eke out its first weekly gain this month. The January contract, which expires later on Friday, was up 72 cents at US$108.63 a barrel by 1214 GMT.
US crude for January delivery was up 75 cents at US$86.64 and on track for its fifth weekly gain in six.
Growth in China's vast manufacturing sector picked up in December, a survey showed, reinforcing recent indications of a revival in its economic recovery that could boost fuel demand.
