Crude oil futures were higher during mid-morning trade in Asia Friday as fresh optimism emerged just days ahead of the December 15 deadline for a phase one trade deal that is expected to be signed by the US and China.  At 10:40 am Singapore time (0240 GMT), ICE February Brent crude futures rose 47 cents/b (0.73%) from Thursday’s settle to $64.67/b, while the front-month NYMEX January light sweet crude contract moved 36 cents/b (0.61%) higher to $59.54/b. “Trade developments continue to be a key focus for markets,” UOB analysts said in a note Friday. US President Donald Trump said on Twitter on Thursday, “Getting VERY close to a BIG DEAL with China. They want it, and so do we!” Traders have been watching for fresh developments out of the US-China negotiations, as the December 15 […]