U.S. indices closed mixed on Monday. Stocks in the Energy (+2.05%), Media (+0.83%) and Household & Personal Products (+0.54%) sectors were mostly on the upside while Consumer Durables & Apparel (-1.77%), Automobiles & Components (-1.27%), and Real Estate (-1.05%) sectors were under pressure. On the economic data front, existing home sales declined 4.9% MoM in March (vs -3.8% expected, +11.2% in February). Also, the Chicago Fed National Activity Index rose to -0.15 in March (vs -0.10 expected) from -0.31 in February. The S&P 500 (2,907.97) stays above both its 20d moving average (2,871.80 – positive slope) and 50d moving average (2,819.67 – positive slope).
European markets are expected to start on a flat note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Foreign Exchange<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The US dollar was flat against most of its major pairs on Monday. However, the USD\/CHF rose to its highest level since March 2017 and GBP\/USD declined to its lowest level since March 10th. On the economic data front, March existing home sales declined 4.9% MoM vs +11.2% in February (revised lower from +11.8%) and vs -3.8% expected.
The Euro was slightly up against all of its major pairs.
The Australian dollar was on the downside against its major pairs. AUD\/USD traded below its 20DMA for the first time since April 8th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n