Crude oil prices saw only modest gains in early Tuesday trading despite positive economic reports from the Chinese and U.S. governments.

Brent, the global benchmark, for January delivery was up about 25 cents per barrel and stayed below the psychological $80 threshold early Tuesday. Crude oil prices are in a bear market because of tepid economic recovery and increased production from shale oil basins in the United States.

Brent dipped below the $80 mark for the first time in 2014 in mid-November.

The modest price increase followed a report from the Chinese government it was weakening its grip on the nation's economy. Prices rallied last week after Beijing announced it was cutting a benchmark interest rate for the first time in more than two years.

China's vibrant economy is taking on more energy, shifting demand dynamics toward the Asia-Pacific.

In the United States, the Commerce Department reported Tuesday the economy grew at a 3.9 percent annual rate between July and September, adding to an already strong fiscal year for the U.S. economy.

Lower crude oil prices means energy prices are lower, giving consumers more spending power as they head into the holiday season.

All eyes will be on a Thursday meeting of members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to see if they cut production in an effort to respond to lower prices in the shale era. Less production could mean higher oil prices and energy costs.

West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. benchmark, followed Brent early Tuesday to trade up 36 cents per barrel to $76.14.