Oil prices steady as U.S. stimulus hopes counter demand concerns

Oil prices were steady on Tuesday as hopes for additional U.S. measures to stimulate the economy countered a demand outlook dampened by rising of coronavirus cases across the globe.

Brent crude was up 13 cents, or 0.3%, at $43.54 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude fell 11 cents, or 0.3%, to $41.49 a barrel.

A big U.S. fiscal package could boost oil prices but is currently deadlocked in negotiations between Democrats who have made a $3 trillion proposal and Republicans who have tabled a $1 trillion plan