Oil Prices Steady on Uncertain Global Outlook and Supply Concerns

A pump jack is seen surrounded by steam during sunset at a PetroChina's oil field in Karamay, Xinjiang Uigur Autonomous Region on Jan. 5, 2011. Stringer/Reuters

LONDON—Oil prices were steady on Monday as concern over rising interest rates, the global economy and the outlook for fuel demand were balanced by the prospect of tightening supplies.

Brent crude slipped 22 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $81.44 a barrel by 0905 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was down 10 cents, or 0.1 percent, at $77.77.