U.S. refinery utilization rates showed a smaller week-over-week decline in the latest data, suggesting a tentative stabilization in refining activity. According to figures updated on 12 August 2026, the utilization rate change came in at -0.3% for the current week, compared with a -0.7% change in the previous reporting period.
The data, reported on a week-over-week basis, indicates that while refinery throughput is still slipping, the pace of the decline has slowed notably. The previous reading measured the change from two weeks ago to the prior week at -0.7%, whereas the latest figure reflects a -0.3% change from the previous week to the current one.
For market participants, the moderating contraction in utilization may point to emerging balance between refined product demand and supply, though refineries are still operating with slightly reduced activity relative to the prior week. Traders and analysts will be watching upcoming weekly EIA releases closely for confirmation of a sustained trend toward stabilization or a renewed downturn in refinery runs.