Oil futures rose Monday, looking to build on recent strength that saw crude end at nearly three-month highs last week, boosted by hopes around further stimulus from China and signs of strong demand for Middle Eastern crude.

Oil prices rose on Monday, remaining at their highest since mid-October as colder weather spurred buying while further support was provided by a weaker U.S. dollar and expectations of tighter sanctions on Iranian and Russian oil exports.

Oil prices edged lower in early trade but are off to a strong start of the year, supported by hopes over Chinese stimulus and prospects of higher fuel demand due to colder weather. Brent crude and WTI both fell 0.