What you need to know before the US open – 14/02
US stock index futures were pretty much unchanged today, suggesting US markets could open slightly lower.
The S&P 500 could end the day on a two-week winning streak, as it's narrowed its loss for the year to one per cent.
Data just in shows that both the import and export price indices increased in January by more than expected, with higher nonfuel prices more than offsetting declining fuel prices.
Stocks closed higher yesterday, the Nasdaq hit its sixth advance in a row. Investors seems reasonably unconcerned with the disappointing retail sales numbers – again, an outcome of the appalling weather the country’s been experiencing.
Corporate news
American International Group, the insurer, upped its dividend and share buybacks on better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings. Shares slipped 1.1 per cent in premarket trading.
Weight Watchers International shed 21.5 per cent before the open after it forecast adjusted profit for the full year that are lower estimates.
In the UK
The surge in housebuilding ramped up construction output in the last quarter of 2013 to a better-than-expected 0.2 per cent.
In Europe
The Eurozone economy expanded more than expected in the final quarter of 2013, with both powerhouse Germany and France seeing stronger growth.
Data in focus
- US industrial production for January at 2.15pm. Expected unchanged at 0.3 per cent.
- US Reuters/Michigan consumer sentiment index for February at 2.55pm. Expected at 80.6 from 81.2.