West Texas Intermediate crude advanced for the fourth time in five days as U.S. orders for durable goods climbed more than forecast, raising expectations that stronger growth will spur fuel demand. Prices gained 0.3 percent. Bookings (DGNOCHNG) for goods meant to last at least three years rose 3.5 percent in November, the Commerce Department reported today. Crude also increased as violence in South Sudan forced a partial shutdown of oil production plants. “The durable goods orders were good and helpful for the market,” said Addison Armstrong , director of market research at Tradition Energy in Stamford , Connecticut . “It does point to the fact that we’ve been getting some strong economic signals. Crude is firmer on the news out of South Sudan.” West Texas Intermediate for February delivery gained 31 cents to end at $99.22 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange . Prices are up 7 […]