Mensajepor BETO1962 » Lun Mar 26, 2012 9:29 am
S&P 500 Index futures (/ES) are higher this morning, as investors hope to get the market off to a good start this week. The strength is being attributed to a key German sentiment index which unexpectedly rose. The data was positive, in contrast to last week's disappointing euro zone purchasing managers' index. Although most European markets are in positive territory today, Spain's idices are lower due to election results over the weekend. Here in the U.S., investors will be monitoring comments from Fed Chairman Bernanke during his speech to the National Association of Business Economists at 7 a.m. CT. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) settled slightly lower after equities ground higher throughout Friday’s session. Treasuries look to reverse recent gains due to the rise in stocks this morning. The 30-year bond had seen gains of 2% last week, which also sent mortgage rates higher. Oil futures (/CL) are relatively flat this morning but gas prices continue to rise across the country. The consumer will continue to see spending pressure as energy and fuel costs cut into budgets. Corporate reports are light this week as earnings season unofficially begins in two weeks. Investors will also focus on home sales data that will be released at 9 a.m. CT.
07:00 am CT - Ben Bernanke Speaks
09:00 am CT - Pending Home Sales Index
09:30 am CT - Dallas Fed Mfg Survey