U.S. indices closed lower on Monday, pressured by shares in the Transportation (-0.98%), Banks (-0.81%) and Automobiles & Components (-0.8%) sectors. On the economic data front, the Empire Manufacturing Index rose to 10.1 in April (estimated 8.0) from 3.7 in March. The S&P 500 (2,905.58) stays above both its 20d moving average (2,856.39 – positive slope) and 50d moving average (2,805.26 – positive slope).
European markets are expected to start on a positive 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 Monday with the exception of the GBP. On the economic data front, the Empire Manufacturing index jumped to 10.1 in April (estimated 8) from 3.7 in the previous month.
The Euro was bullish against all of its major pairs with the exception of the GBP. According to Rightmove, UK house prices gained 1.1% in April after a 0.4% rise a month earlier.
The Australian dollar was higher against all of its major pairs except for the GBP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n