U.S. equity futures are trading slightly higher as investors return from a long Holiday weekend. Stocks ended last week with the best gains of the year and the Nasdaq (NDX) closed at its highest level since the tech bubble in 2000. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) fell again on Friday as stocks soared last week. Poor economic data and bad weather had no downside effect on equities. Statements to Congress from the Fed’s Yellen gave the Bulls a catalyst for more upside. A fresh set of FOMC minutes are released tomorrow afternoon and will be closely scrutinized for any new comments.
Treasuries are a little higher amid gains in European bonds. Bonds were lower in Asia after the Bank of Japan doubled its loan facilities while leaving its asset purchase program unchanged. That saw the Nikkei jump over 3%. European exchanges couldn't maintain gains however after weaker than expected German confidence while U.K. CPI fell to a new cycle low. In the U.S. today, there's data on the February Empire State index, the December Treasury's TIC report (capital flows), and February NAHB homebuilder sentiment index.
Stock Stories:
Coca-Cola (KO) –Flat not fizzy – The soda giant posts mixed earnings results this morning. The company reported in-line EPS but missed on top-line revenue. The shares are down minimally ahead of the opening bell.
Major Economic Reports:
7:30 am CT – Empire State Mfg Survey
8:00 am CT – Treasury Intl. Capital
9:00 am CT – Housing Market Index
Notable Earnings:
Before Market: DUK, GPC, KO, MDT, NI, WM, WWW
After Market: ADI, AUY, CF, DRYS, FLR, HLF, PNRA, SM, TEX
Wednesday – 2/19: CAR, CROX, DVN, GRMN, MGM, SIX, SWY, TSLA, WMB |
发表于 2014-2-18 09:13
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发表于 2014-2-18 10:10
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