LONDON, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Refining margins shifted back
into positive territory on Tuesday that - if it lasts - should
rekindle demand for west African crude that has been weighed
down by high freight rates.
* Spot trade remained muted due to the Christmas holiday
period with most refiners closing their books and covering their
needs in advance.
* Angolan state firm Sonangol has two Dalia cargoes on offer
at dated Brent plus $2.90 loading Feb. 12 and 25.
* Sonangol was also offering a Gindungo at dated Brent plus
$2.00 loading Feb. 15, a Hungo at dated plus $2.50 loading Feb.
27 and an Olombendo at dated Brent plus $4.00 loading Feb. 26.
* India's HPCL issued a new buy tender for cargoes loading
Feb. 10-20 or for March 10-20 delivery, with bids remaining
valid until Dec. 31.
RELATED NEWS
* French energy major Total TOTF.PA said on Tuesday that
its 102,000 barrels-per-day Grandpuits refinery near Paris was
producing at reduced flow after CGT union voted to halt output
as part of a nationwide protest against pensions reform.
* Kuwait and Saudi Arabia on Tuesday signed an agreement and
memorandum of understanding on dividing the Neutral Zone between
the two countries that contains jointly operated oilfields,
Kuwait's state-run news agency (KUNA) said.