U.S. indices closed higher on Tuesday with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq achieving record closing highs, lifted by shares in the Health Care Equipment & Services (+2.03%), Retailing (+1.49%) and Media (+1.3%) sectors. On the economic data front, New home sales increased 4.5% MoM to an annualized 692K in March (vs 649K expected, 662K in February). The S&P 500 (2,933.68) stays above both its 20d moving average (2,878.57 – positive slope) and 50d moving average (2,824.18 – positive slope).
European markets are expected to start on a flat note.
Foreign Exchange
The US dollar was higher against all of its major pairs on Tuesday with the exception of the JPY. On the economic data front, New home sales increased 4.5% to an annualized 692K in March compared to a revised 662K in Feb (649K estimate).
The Euro was mixed against all of its major pairs. In Europe, euro-zone consumer confidence index fell to -7.9 in April in first estimation (-7 expected) from -7.2 a month earlier.
The Australian dollar was under pressure against its major pairs.
Commodities
After the close of Wall Street, WTI Crude Future (JUN 19) was up $0.6 to $66.15. The contract was above its 20D MA (@ $62.99) and above its 50D MA (@ $59.82). The 14d RSI above 70 (72.85) indicates WTI Crude Future (JUN 19) was overbought.
Gold was about flat to $1272.4. The precious metal was below its 20D MA (@ $1287) and below its 50D MA (@ $1301).
Copper Future (JUL 19) on Comex was about flat to 290.2c/lb. The contract was below its 20D MA (@ 292.12c) and below its 50D MA (@ 290.82c). In Europe, the London Metal Exchange reported its copper inventories decreased 925 tons to 188300 tons.