Today, throughout the day, oil prices could rise above $ 112 per barrel, which was caused by signs emerged that the economic growth in China, which is the second-largest oil consumer, is gaining momentum. According to the latest data, the activity in the manufacturing sector in China rose in November, which was the first time in seven quarterly economic slowdown. The value of this index was 50.5 in November, indicating expansion in the sector. Remember, this is the first time in 13 months, when the figure exceeded 50. After these data, investors will be focused on the information on industrial production in China, as well as trade data, which will be released later this month, and will help to obtain confirmation of the likelihood of further sustainable growth.

Also some support oil prices have data from the U.S., which showed that the purchasing managers' index for the manufacturing sector rose in November to 52.8 level, while continuing to increase its in positive territory.

Oil also helps increase the tense situation in the Middle East, which is expressed in the ongoing clashes between Israel and Hamas.

But, despite this, the concern about the budget deficit and talks about the upcoming "financial cliff", checked the growth of oil prices.

January futures price of U.S. light crude oil WTI (Light Sweet Crude Oil) fell to 89.21 dollars a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

January futures price of North Sea petroleum mix of mark Brent dropped 25 cents to 111.05 dollars a barrel on the London Stock Exchange ICE Futures Europe.

Today, gold prices slightly strengthened, driven by corresponding movement in the stock markets, and the growth of the euro. Such dynamics are manifested after the published Chinese data came out better than expected, and increased investor appetite for assets which are considered as high risk. According to recent studies that have been done, both official and private representatives of the country, the activity in the manufacturing sector of China unexpectedly increased.

Note also that the final data of the index of purchasing managers in the production of the eurozone also showed that the activity in November decreased more slowly.

The same time, the value of gold has an impact information from Greece, under which it became known about the details of its debt repayment country, which also helped boost demand for riskier assets.

Some analysts say the long and arduous negotiations could push investors to buy gold as a safe-haven. However, other analysts have warned that prolonged negotiations could harm the precious metals, which can be caused by a huge sale of stocks and commodities.

December futures price of gold on the COMEX is now 1716.30 an ounce.