Considering advanced figures from CME Group for natural gas futures markets, open interest rose by around 21.3K contracts after six consecutive daily builds on Thursday. In the same direction, volume rose for the second straight session, now by around 100.5K contracts.

Natural Gas targets the 2022 highs just below $5.00

Natural gas prices extended the positive streak on Thursday, surpassing the key 200-day SMA ($4.128). The uptick was accompanied by rising open interest and volume and opens the door to further gains in the very near term. That said, the YTD peak around $4.90 now emerges as the next magnet for bulls.