Brent crude retreats to about US$76 a barrel from nearly US$100, raising doubts over cost relief

Brent crude has slipped to about US$76 per barrel from highs of nearly US$100 earlier this year. In theory, cheaper energy should ease pressure on household budgets and business costs. However, in Malaysia, prices for essentials and operating expenses have not fallen in step, prompting questions over whether lower oil prices are being passed through.