Monday, December 21, 2009

Market Notes - December 21, 2009

U.S. stock index futures pointed to a higher start for the broader markets, as Wall Street begins the first of two consecutive holiday-shortened trading weeks. This week is packed with economic data reports, and the stock market will close at 1:00 pm ET on Thursday and will be closed Friday.

There is no economic data scheduled for release today. Tomorrow, the final estimate of GDP closes the books on the third quarter GDP, and we will get the most recent existing home sales data. On Wednesday, the personal income report will provide a key reading on the consumer, and we will also get new home sales data and a reading on consumer sentiment. Thursday’s durable goods orders report may help clarify last week’s mixed news on manufacturing, and we will get the latest initial claims number.