U.S. indices closed higher to finish the week on Friday, boosted by shares in the Energy (+1.69%), Utilities (+1%) and Real Estate (+0.76%) sectors. On the economic data front, nonfarm payrolls increased 196K in March (estimated +177K, +33K in February), while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.8%. The S&P 500 (2,892.74) stays above both its 20d moving average (2,830.70 – positive slope) and 50d moving average (2,778.80 – positive slope).
European markets are expected to start on a negative note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Foreign Exchange<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The US dollar was bullish against all of its major pairs on Friday. On the economic data front, change in nonfarm payrolls jumped to 196k in March (estimated 177k) from 33k in February. In other news, the unemployment rate remained unchanged MoM at 3.8% in March.
The Euro was bullish against all of its major pairs. The German industrial production bounced by 0.7% in February (+0.5% expected) after being flat in January (revised from -0.8%). According to Halifax, the UK house prices dropped by 1.6% in March (-2.8% anticipated) after a 6% jump a month earlier.
The Australian dollar was lower against all of its major pairs except for the NZD, the CAD and the GBP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n