(Gold is the December contract on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver, copper and oil are the September contracts.)

NEW YORK - The Standard & Poor’s 500 index is four digits again. The widely used stock market measure broke above 1000 on Monday for the first time in nine months as reports on manufacturing, housing and banking sent investors more signals that the economy is gathering strength.
The index is used as a benchmark for many mutual funds.
Indices all rose more than one per cent, including the Dow Jones industrial average, which climbed 115 points.
The market’s July rally blew into August on the type of news that might have seemed unthinkable when stocks cratered to 12-year lows in early March.
A report predicted US manufacturing activity will grow next month, the government said construction spending rose in June, and Ford Motor Co said its sales rose last month for the first time in nearly two years.
The day’s reports were the latest indications that the recession that began in December 2007 could be retreating.
Hope of a recovery, based on better corporate earnings reports and economic data, propelled the Dow Jones industrial average 725 points in July to its best month in nearly seven years, restarting a spring rally that had stalled in June.
The Dow rose 114.95, or 1.25 per cent, to 9286.56. The S&P 500 index rose 15.15, or 1.53 per cent, to 1002.63. It was the first finish above 1000 since early November.
The Nasdaq composite index rose 30.11, or 1.52 per cent, to 2008.61, its first close above 2,000 since October.

LONDON - European stock markets rallied after upbeat data from the United States and the 16-nation eurozone raised hopes about the prospects for a recovery.
London’s FTSE 100 index ended the day up 74.1 points, 1.61 per cent, at 4682.46 points, after hitting its highest point so far this year.

FRANKFURT - The Dax rose 94.71 points, or 1.78 per cent to end at 5426.85.

PARIS - The CAC 40 gained 51.53 points, or 1.5 per cent, to 3477.8.

TOKYO - Japanese share prices ended mixed as investors took a breather after the market ended last week at a near 10-month high on growing optimism about the global economy.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index slipped 4.36 points, or 0.04 per cent, to 10,352.47.

HONG KONG - Hong Kong stocks rose 1.14 per cent to a near 11-month high, boosted by another surge on the mainland despite some dealers staying on the sidelines ahead of first-half corporate results.
The Hang Seng Index rose 233.93 points to 20,807.26, its third consecutive gain.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand sharemarket made moderate gains on sustained confidence even though eftpos company ProvencoCadmus was placed in receivership.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 31.6 points, or one per cent, at 3047.85. Turnover was worth $NZ78.45 million ($A62.12 million).

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open higher on Monday, after US markets rose to a nine-month high overnight as manufacturing, housing and banking reports suggesting that the economy is gaining strength.
At 0716 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 56 points higher at 4266.
In economic news, the Commonwealth Bank and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry release their business expectations survey covering the June quarter.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics releases retail trade data for June and the June quarter, and the house price index data for the June quarter.
The Reserve Bank of Australia holds its August board meeting to consider interest rates, inter alia.
The second day of the 2009 Diggers and Dealers mining forum will be held in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.
The Australian share market closed moderately stronger on Monday, led by the banks amid quiet trading on a bank holiday in NSW and the ACT.
The S&P/ASX 200 index was 19.4 points higher, or by 0.46 per cent, at 4263.4 while the broader All Ordinaries index rose 21 points, or 0.49 per cent, to 4270.5.

NYMEX

Oil and natural gas prices rose sharply on the weakening dollar and on new signs of life from manufacturers that suggest the recession may be loosening its grip.
Benchmark crude for September delivery rose three per cent, or $US2.13 to settle at $US71.58 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It was the third straight day of substantial increases on the energy futures markets and the first time in a month that crude traded above $US70.
Natural gas, a major source of power generation, spiked by more than nine per cent on a day when both China and the United States reported stronger manufacturing activity.
Production from US manufacturers jumped to its highest level in more than two years last month with new orders to restock businesses that had cleared inventories as the economy slumped.
The decline in manufacturing has been slowing since December and officials with the Institute for Supply Management, a trade group of purchasing executives, said Monday that signs of growth in the sector could emerge as early as next month.
Manufacturing in China expanded at its fastest clip in a year, according to a survey by Hong Kong brokerage CLSA Asia-Pacific Markets.
In other Nymex trading, gasoline for August delivery rose 5.67 cents to settle at $US2.0693 a gallon and heating oil gained 3.88 cents to settle at $US1.8713.
Natural gas for August delivery jumped 37.8 cents to settle at $US4.031 per 1,000 cubic feet.
In London, Brent crude prices rose $US1.85 to settle at $US73.55 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange.

COMEX

Commodities traders placed more bets on an economic recovery on Monday, adding copper and aluminium to their portfolios as the dollar sank to fresh lows.
Upbeat reports on manufacturing activity around the world moved investors to dump traditionally safe-haven assets like the dollar and government bonds in favor of riskier assets that stand to benefit more as the economy improves.
Copper was the standout among metals, soaring 4.4 per cent to close at a 10-month high after the Institute for Supply Management said US manufacturing activity declined during July at the slowest pace in nearly a year. The private trade group said its manufacturing index rose more than expected in June.
Reports showing similar improvements in the manufacturing sectors in China, Britain and the euro zone added to the market’s optimism. Particularly encouraging was a survey of China’s manufacturing sector, which hit a 12-month high.
Copper prices have nearly doubled this year due mainly to solid demand from China. On Monday, prices rose 11.5 cents to settle at $US2.7385 a pound on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Aluminum prices jumped 4.2 per cent.
Among precious metals, September silver rose 31.2 cents, or 2.2 per cent, to $US14.2520 an ounce, while October platinum gained $US25.50, or 2.1 percent, to $US1239.70 an ounce.
Gold for December delivery added $US3 to $US958.80 an ounce.

(Gold is the August contract on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver, copper and oil are the September contracts.)

NEW YORK - Wall Street ended modestly lower on Wednesday as the market consolidated recent gains, largely shrugging off a plunge in Chinese shares and weaker-than-expected data from the US factory sector.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 26 points, 0.29 per cent, to 9070.72.
The Nasdaq composite dipped 7.75 points, 0.39 per cent, to 1967.76 and the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 drifted down 4.47 points, or 0.46 per cent, to a close of 975.15.

LONDON - European stock markets, resisting a slide on Wall Street, advanced, drawing strength from corporate earnings results.
The London FTSE 100 index gained 18.69, or 0.41 per cent, to close at 4547.53 points.

FRANKFURT - Pharmaceutical group Bayer surged 5.44 per cent to 42.23 euros after reporting results that beat expectations.
Despite a third consecutive quarterly loss auto maker Daimler added 4.55 per cent to close at 31.46 euros. The company foresaw an improvement in its operating results by the end of the year.
Lufthansa edged up 0.21 per cent, having released some of its results just ahead of the market close. The airline reported a 15.7 per cent slide in first half sales.
The Dax rose 95.58 points, or 1.85 per cent, to 5270.32.

PARIS - In Paris, earnings reports drove the market. The CAC 40 index lifted 34.65 points, or 1.04 per cent, to 3365.62 points.

TOKYO - Japan’s Nikkei stock average edged up 0.3 per cent to a seven-week closing high, buoyed by high-tech shares such as Tokyo Electron, but gains were capped ahead of key company earnings.
Nippon Steel fell 3.5 per cent after the company said it swung to a quarterly loss, widened its first-half loss forecast by 10 per cent, and said it would not pay a first half dividend.
But trade was thin and investors were hesitant after a nine-day rising streak was broken on Tuesday — the longest such run in 21 years — and ahead of a slew of Japanese earnings this week.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index edged up 25.98 points, or 0.26 per cent, to 10,113.24.

HONG KONG - Hong Kong shares closed 2.37 per cent lower on Wednesday as China counters tumbled after a slump on the Shanghai bourse.
The benchmark Hang Seng Index ended down 489.04 points at 20,135.50.

WELLINGTON - After rising for the previous 11 trading days, the NZ sharemarket took a breather on Wednesday, in line with trends in foreign markets. Brokers said it was a mixed market with selected stocks still attracting buyers.
The NZSX-50 index closed down 28.01 points, or 0.93 per cent, at 2990.47. Turnover was worth $NZ61.95 million ($A49.39 million). There were 37 rises and 40 falls among the 108 stocks traded.
From below 2740 points in mid-July, the benchmark NZSX-50 index reached 3018.5 on Wednesday, its highest level since last October.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open flat to low on Thursday after US stocks finished in negative territory and commodity prices dropped overnight.
At 0710 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was three points higher at 4100.
In economic news, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) releases building approvals data for June.
In equities news, Lihir Gold releases its second quarter production report, Elders Rural Bank posts annual results, and Austar United Communications issues first half results.
Heartware International Inc will hold its annual general meeting.
Future Fund chairman David Murray will address the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia on “The Frameworks and Focus for the Future Fund and Nation-Building Funds”, in Sydney.
On Wednesday, the Australian share market snapped a 11 trading day bull run, closing down more than half a per cent amid profit-taking in the resources sector.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index closed down 26.7 points, or 0.64 per cent, at 4142.8 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index lost 25.1 points, or 0.6 per cent, to 4148.9 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices tumbled after news of swelling US inventories revived market worries about weak demand in the world’s largest energy consumer.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for September, dropped $US3.88, or nearly six per cent, to close at $US63.35.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for September delivery shed $US3.35 to settle at $US66.53 a barrel.

COMEX

Gold for August delivery dropped $US11.90 to $US927.20 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver fell 48.2 cents to $US13.258 an ounce.
September copper decreased 4.3 cents to $US2.4775 a pound.

(Gold is the August contract on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver, copper and oil are the September contracts.)

NEW YORK - US stocks finished narrowly mixed on Tuesday as the market’s strong momentum from a hefty two-week rally helped overcome an early wave of profit-taking.
Markets reacted to a weaker-than-expected survey on consumer confidence that was mitigated by positive news from the housing sector and generally strong corporate news.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average drifted down 11.79 points, or 0.13 per cent, to settle at 9096.72, retreating modestly from a two-week surge of nearly 12 per cent.
The Nasdaq composite meanwhile rose 7.62 points, 0.39 per cent, to 1975.51 in a late recovery, while the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index dipped 2.56 points, 0.26 per cent, to settle at 979.62.

LONDON - European stock markets closed with losses, with sentiment dented by profit-taking and a disappointing reading on US consumer confidence.
The London FTSE 100, ending a string of 11 consecutive gains, shed 57.29 points, or 1.25 per cent, to 4528.84.

FRANKFURT - The Dax fell 76.81 points, or 1.46 per cent, to 5174.74.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index dropped 41.39 points, or 1.23 per cent, to 3330.97 points.

TOKYO - The benchmark Nikkei-225 index dropped 1.4 points, or 0.01 per cent, to 10,087.26.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index ended up 372.92 points, or 1.84 per cent, at 20,624.54, its highest close since September 8.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand share market consolidated, with the benchmark NZSX-50 index continuing its upward climb.
The index closed up 0.68 per cent, or 20.46 points, at 3018.47.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open in negative territory after US stocks finished mixed, and commodity prices dropped overnight.
At 0718 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 21 points lower at 4119.
In economic news, the Australian Office of Financial Management conducts a tender for $700 million in June 2014 Commonwealth government bonds.
The State Street global investor confidence index for July, and the Housing Industry Association new home sales data for June will be released.
In company news, investment bank Macquarie Group Ltd will hold its annual general meeting.
On Tuesday, the Australian sharemarket posted its eighth consecutive close above 4000 points, spurred on by financial stocks and the continuing run of stronger investor sentiment.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was up 29.9 points, or 0.72 per cent, at 4169.5 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index put on 26.2 points, or 0.63 per cent, to 4174.

NYMEX

Oil prices reversed course and moved lower as some of the recent optimism on the US economy was tempered by a weak survey on consumer confidence.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for September delivery, slid $US1.15 to close at $US67.23 a barrel.
Brent North Sea crude for September delivery declined 93 cents to settle at $US69.88 per barrel.
US consumer confidence fell for a second straight month in July as a difficult job market weighed on sentiment, the Conference Board said.

COMEX

Gold for August delivery dropped $US14.40 to $US939.10 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver fell 25 cents to $US13.74 an ounce.
September copper decreased 2.45 cents to $US2.5205 a pound.

NEW YORK - Wall Street shares surged to their highest levels of 2009 on Thursday as investors cheered upbeat housing data and a strong day for corporate earnings as signs that the economic slide may be ending.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average vaulted above 9,000 for the first time since early January, gaining 188.03 points, or 2.12 per cent, to 9,069.29, the best close for blue chips since November 5.
The technology-heavy Nasdaq composite extended its winning streak to a 12th session, rallying 47.22 points, or 2.45 per cent, to 1,973.60, its highest since finish October 2.
The broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index climbed to an eight-month peak of 976.29, rising 22.22 points, or 2.33 per cent.

LONDON - European stock markets closed higher to chalk up a ninth consecutive day of gains and a return to the levels of January this year after positive US economic data and corporate results.
London’s FTSE 100 index gained 78.63 points, or 1.75 per cent, at 4,559.8 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax rose 153.31 points, or 3.01 per cent, to 5,247.28.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 70.83 points, or 2.14 per cent, to 3,373.72 points.

TOKYO - Japan’s Nikkei stock average rose nearly one per cent to a three-week closing high as Sony Corp and other exporters climbed on a weaker yen, with buying of futures an additional boost for the market mood.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index rose 69.78 points, or 0.72 per cent, to 9,792.94.

HONG KONG - The Hang Seng Index gained 569.53 points, or 2.96 per cent, to 19,817.7.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand sharemarket rose for its eighth consecutive trading day.
The NZSX-50 index closed up 18.19 points, or 0.627 per cent, at 2918.633.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket has received solid leads from overseas after US stocks surged and oil prices gained overnight.
Gold and silver prices also were higher, while copper closed slightly weaker.
At 0749 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 61 points higher at 4,096.
In economic news on Friday, the Housing Industry Association - RP Data will release their residential land report for the March quarter.
In company news, Woodside Petroleum Ltd issues its second quarter production report.
Companies holdings general meetings include Optus owner Singapore Telecommunications Ltd, in Singapore, Australian Mines Ltd and Proto Resources & Investments Ltd.
Creditors of failed stocklending firm Opes Prime will meet to consider whether to accept a $253 million settlement of their claims from Opes Prime’s bankers.
On Thursday, the Australian share market closed flat after falling bank stocks ended this week’s rally and investment bank Macquarie Group and Macquarie Airports went into a trading halt.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was down 4.4 points, or 0.11 per cent, at 4,064.1, while the broader All Ordinaries index gained 3.7 points, or 0.09 per cent, to 4,072.6 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices surged as a Wall Street stocks rally and rising US home sales fueled optimism that the world’s biggest economy may be pulling out of its nosedive.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for September, leapt $US1.76 to close at $US67.16 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for September delivery spiked $US2.04 higher to settle at $US69.25.

COMEX

Gold for August delivery lifted $US1.50 to $US954.80 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver gained seven cents to $US13.77 an ounce.
September copper fell 0.15 cent to $US2.5240 a pound.

MORNING MARKET REPORT

(Gold is the August contract on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver, copper and oil are the September contracts.)

NEW YORK - A strong earnings-driven rally ran out of steam on Wednesday for Wall Street’s blue chips, but the technology-heavy Nasdaq extended its winning streak to 11 days.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 34.68 points, or 0.39 per cent, to close at 8,881.26, snapping a seven-day winning streak for the blue-chip index.
The Nasdaq composite, meanwhile, lifted by strong results from Apple, climbed 10.18 points, or 0.53 per cent, to 1,926.38, in the longest streak of gains in the index since 1996.
The broad Standard & Poor’s 500 index fell 0.51 point, or 0.05 per cent, to 954.07.

LONDON - European stock markets closed firmer in choppy trade, with investors consolidating positions after gains of 10 per cent over the past week.
London’s FTSE 100 index gained 12.56 points, or 0.28 per cent, at 4,493.73 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax rose 27.59 points, or 0.54 per cent, to 5,121.56.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 2.18 points, or 0.07 per cent, to 3,305.07 points.

TOKYO - Tokyo finished higher, climbing for a sixth straight day on hopes of a recovery in corporate earnings.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index rose 71.14 points, or 0.74 per cent to 9,723.16 points — the best finish since July 3.

HONG KONG - The Hang Seng Index lost 253.56 points, or 1.3 per cent, to 19,248.17.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand sharemarket followed through after posting strong gains on Tuesday in response to a profit upgrade by casino company SkyCity.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 27.25 points, or 0.948 per cent, at 2900.443.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open weaker after US stocks fell and oil prices dropped overnight.
Higher gold, silver and copper prices could help lift the market, however.
At 0717 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was six points lower at 4,031.
In economic news on Thursday, the Reserve Bank of Australia assistant governor of financial markets, Guy Debelle, addresses a Whitlam Institute Forum at the University of Western Sydney.
In company news, Petsec Energy Ltd issues second quarter results and Santos Ltd posts second quarter production figures.
Companies holding general meetings include Gulf Resources Ltd, Matsa Resources Ltd, Talisman Mining Ltd and Advance Energy Ltd.
The Australian share market closed in positive territory for the seventh consecutive session on Wednesday, driven by gains in mining and energy stocks.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was up 17.8 points, or 0.44 per cent, at 4,068.5 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index gained 20.6 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 4,068.9 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices were mixed as renewed economic caution put the brakes on the market and traders digested news of a decline in US energy stockpiles in line with forecasts.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for September, dropped 21 cents to close at $US65.40 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for September delivery rose 34 cents to settle at $US67.21 per barrel.

COMEX

Gold for August delivery lifted $US6.40 to $US953.30 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver gained 23.2 cents, or 1.72 per cent, to $US13.71 an ounce.
September copper soared 7.45 cents, or 3.04 per cent, to $US2.5255 a pound.

NEW YORK - US stocks closed with modest gains on Tuesday in choppy trade as the market weighed improved earnings reports and Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke’s cautious comments about economic recovery.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 67.79 points, or 0.77 per cent, to 8,915.94.
The technology-heavy Nasdaq rose 6.91 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 1,916.20, and the broad Standard & Poor’s 500 index gained 3.45 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 954.58.

LONDON - European stock markets closed higher, extending gains to a seventh straight day after largely positive US corporate results bolstered growing optimism.
London’s FTSE 100 index gained 37.55 points, or 0.85 per cent, at 4,481.17 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax rose 63.82 points, or 1.27 per cent, to 5,093.97.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 31.95 points, or 0.98 per cent, to 3,302.89 points.

TOKYO - Japan’s Nikkei average climbed 2.7 per cent to its highest close in two weeks as optimism grew about a recovery in the US economy, reviving investor appetite for riskier assets and lifting blue-chip exporters.
The benchmark Nikkei added 256.70 points to 9,652.02.

HONG KONG - The Hang Seng Index lost 0.64 point to 19,501.73.

WELLINGTON - An upbeat earnings forecast from casino company Sky City On Tuesday spurred buying activity throughout the market.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 52.28 points, or 1.85 per cent, at 2873.19. Turnover was a modest $NZ94.4 million ($A76.27 million).

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open in positive territory after US stocks rose and oil prices gained overnight.
Lower gold, silver and copper prices could limit gains, however.
At 0732 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 15 points higher at 4,044.
In economic news on Wednesday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics releases consumer price index data for the June quarter.
The Reserve Bank of Australia assistant governor of financial markets, Guy Debelle, takes part in a panel discussion at a Mortgage Finance Industry Association function.
In company news, BHP Billiton Ltd issues second quarter production report and Woolworths Ltd posts fourth quarter sales results.
Companies holding meetings include Asciano Group — to vote on a capital raising proposal — Namoi Cotton Co-operative Ltd and Trust Company Ltd.
On Tuesday, the Australian share market finished the day flat, as rises among the big miners helped offset a weaker banking sector.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index closed up 0.4 point, or 0.01 per cent, to 4050.7 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index gained 4.1 points, or 0.1 per cent, to 4048.3.

NYMEX

Oil prices moved higher, with the market anticipating that the US government’s weekly oil report will show a decline in the crude stockpile as the economy shows signs of recovery.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for delivery in August, rose 74 cents to close at $US64.72 a barrel.
The August contract expired at the close.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for September delivery gained 43 cents to settle at $US66.87 a barrel.

COMEX

Gold for August delivery fell $US1.90 to $US946.90 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver lost 14.7 cents to $US13.478 an ounce.
September copper fell 1.8 cents to $US2.451 a pound.

NEW YORK - Wall Street posted a third-successive day of gains as the market surged on surprisingly strong results from tech giant Intel and an improved economic outlook from the Federal Reserve.
The market opened higher following Intel reported earnings per share much higher than market expectations late on Tuesday.
Investors looked past data on consumer inflation which appeared to be skewed by a temporary surge in energy prices. The Labor Department said its consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.7 per cent in June.
The market’s rally gathered momentum after the Federal Reserve raised its growth outlook for the US economy and said this would likely lead to an easing of its stimulus efforts.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average leapt 256.72 points, or 3.07 per cent, to 8,616.21.
The technology-heavy Nasdaq climbed 63.17 points, or 3.51 per cent, to 1,862.9 and the broad Standard & Poor’s 500 index advanced 26.84 points, or 2.96 per cent, to 932.68.

LONDON - Europe’s leading stock markets surged, boosted by Wall Street, as investors eyed a global economic recovery following positive earnings and economic data.
Intel’s second quarter result boosted European markets.
London’s FTSE 100 gained 108.78 points, or 2.57 per cent, to close at 4,346.46 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax soared 146.75 points, or 3.07 per cent, to close at 4,928.44 points.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index rose 89.4 points, or 2.9 per cent, to 3,171.27.

TOKYO - Many investors locked in profits following a sharp rally in the previous session, although chipmakers got a boost after US semiconductor maker Intel posted better-than-expected second-quarter results and offered a bright outlook.
The Nikkei-225 index climbed 7.44 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 9,269.25.

HONG KONG - The market was boosted by gains in property stocks ahead of the launch of a major residential project, dealers said.
The Hang Seng Index rose 372.93 points, or 2.09 per cent, at 18,258.66.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand share market posted gains but they were modest compared to the Australian market.
The benchmark NZX-50 index closed up 15.58 points, or 0.57 per cent, at 2,764.08.
Turnover was $NZ94.96 million ($A76.73 million). There were 43 rises and 20 falls among the 111 stocks traded.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open significantly higher after a strong surge on Wall Street sparked by a brighter economic outlook from the Federal Reserve.
At 0730 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 72 points higher at 3,960.
In economic news on Thursday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics releases international merchandise imports data for June.
The Reserve Bank of Australia publishes its monthly bulletin.
The Australian Office of Financial Management will tender Treasury notes maturing October 23, 2009, and January 22, 2010.
In company news, Sino Gold releases quarterly results.
Olympia Resources Ltd and Territory Resources Ltd hold general meetings.
Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) hosts a survey research conference in Melbourne.
The Queensland Coal & Energy conference concludes in Brisbane.
On Wednesday, resources and banking stocks drove the Australian share market to its highest close this financial year.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index closed up 57.4 points, or 1.48 per cent, at 3924.5 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index gained 58.7 points, or 1.52 per cent, to 3917.5 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices were lifted by a drop in US crude inventories that suggested stronger demand in the world’s largest energy consumer.
The market welcomed the US government’s weekly oil report and price gains accelerated in the second half of the session.
The Department of Energy said that American crude oil reserves sank more than expected, by 2.8 million barrels in the week ended July 10, as refineries stepped up production.
The data also showed that distillate inventories, including gasoline and diesel fuel, which had increased for months, rose less than expected.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for August delivery, leapt $US2.02 to close at $US61.54 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for delivery in August jumped $US2.23 to settle at $US63.09.

COMEX

A government report showing a bigger-than-expected jump in wholesale inflation numbers in June helped support metals prices.
The increase was driven largely by a surge in energy prices last month, and renewed concerns about inflation. Investors often use gold as a hedge against inflation, and other precious metals sometimes benefit as well.
Some weakness in the US dollar also helped support prices for commodities.
Gold for August delivery gained $16.60 to $US939.40 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
September silver rose 35.3 cents to $US13.208 an ounce, while July platinum gained $US17.30 to $US1,128.40 an ounce.
September copper futures rose 9.3 cents to $US2.392 a pound.

NEW YORK - US stocks struggled higher as a stronger-than-expected profit report from financial giant Goldman Sachs helped investors look past lacklustre economic data.
Market action came after Goldman Sachs posted a net profit of $US3.44 billion in the second quarter, topping market expectations and easing fears about a collapsing financial system.
The market also reacted to news that US retail sales rose for the second consecutive month in June, by 0.6 per cent, but with gasoline sales accounting for much of the increase due to higher prices.
Another report showed surging energy costs pushed up US wholesale prices by a sharp 1.8 per cent in June.
The rise in prices was steeper than expected, however, analysts said the big factor was energy costs, and they have since retreated, so the overall inflation picture was subdued.
The main indices drifted in and out of positive territory for most of the day within a narrow range.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up 27.81 points, or 0.33 per cent, to 8,359.49.
The technology-heavy Nasdaq composite added 6.52 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 1,799.73 while the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index gained 4.79 points, or 0.53 per cent, to a close of 905.84.

LONDON - Europe’s leading stock markets rose after strong US bank earnings and the release of economic data, but dealers said doubt crept in with investors already looking anxiously ahead for more indicators.
Financial stocks were higher on most markets.
London’s FTSE 100 index closed up 35.55 points, or 0.85 per cent, at 4,237.68 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax rose 59.35 points, or 1.26 per cent, to 4,781.69 points.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 29.79 points, or 0.98 per cent, to close at 3,081.87.

TOKYO - Asian markets staged a massive rebound following weeks of losses, boosted by Monday’s rally on Wall Street led by confidence in the key financial sector.
Tokyo snapped a nine-day losing streak, with the benchmark Nikkei-225 rising 211.48 points, or 2.34 per cent, to 9,261.81.

HONG KONG - Hong Kong recorded its best rise since June 10. The Hang Seng Index ended up 631.1 points, or 3.66 per cent, at 17,885.73.

WELLINGTON - New Zealand’s share market lifted sharply in early trade but then ran out of steam.
The benchmark NZX-50 index closed up 11.61 points, or 0.42 per cent, at 2,748.5.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open higher following another day of gains on Wall Street after a stronger than expected profit result from finance giant Goldman Sachs.
At 0730 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 35 points higher at 3,882.
In economic news on Wednesday, the Westpac-Melbourne Institute indices of economic activity for May are released.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics releases building activity data for the March quarter.
The Australian Office of Financial Management conducts a tender of $700 million June 2014 Commonwealth government bonds.
In company news, Primary Health Care Ltd, Lumacom Ltd and Total Staffing Solutions Ltd hold general meetings.
Minerals Corporation Ltd holds an extraordinary general meeting in Sydney.
Gloria Jean’s Coffee International founder Peter Irvine will address an Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce young business forum in sydney.
New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Bill English is in Sydney to speak at an Australian Business Economist function on New Zealand’s Road to Recovery.
Victorian Premier John Brumby will deliver a State Of The State speech to a Committee for Economic Development of Australia function.
The Queensland Coal & Energy conference begins in Brisbane.
On Tuesday, the Australian share market posted its biggest one-day percentage gain so far this calendar year.
The local bourse was led by stronger banking and mining sectors.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index rose 129.6 points, or 3.47 per cent, to 3,867.1, while the broader All Ordinaries index lifted 120.8 points, or 3.23 per cent, to 3,858.8 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices closed mixed as the latest data failed to generate confidence in an economic rebound in the United States, the world’s largest energy consumer.
The New York oil contract retraced Monday’s session, opening in positive territory and finishing in the red.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in August, fell 17 cents to finish at $US59.52 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for delivery in August rose 17 cents to settle at $US60.86 a barrel.

COMEX

Gold prices rose after better than forecast US retail sales data, boosting demand for the precious metal as an alternative investment and a hedge against inflation.
Gold for August delivery gained 30 cents to settle at $US922.80 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Other precious metals also rose as a weaker US dollar helped demand. September silver was up seven cents to $US12.855 an ounce.
Among base metals, September copper futures rose 7.6 cents to $US2.299 a pound.

NEW YORK - US stocks posted a broad rally on the back of a stronger financial sector.
Banking stocks surged ahead of a busy week of economic and corporate earnings reports, after analyst Meredith Whitney upgraded her rating on Goldman Sachs.
She also said during a television interview the hard-hit Bank of America Corp was inexpensive given the assets on its books.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 185.16 points, or 2.27 per cent, to 8,331.68.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq added 37.18 points, or 2.12 per cent, to 1,793.21 and the broad Standard & Poor’s 500 index advanced 21.92 points, or 2.49 per cent, to a close of 901.05.

LONDON - European stocks soared, spurred on by the financial sector, as investors awaited quarterly earnings reports from government-assisted US banks that could signal the economy is on the road to recovery.
The London FTSE 100 index rose 74.96 points, or 1.82 per cent, to close at 4,202.13 points.

FRANKFURT - The Dax surged surged 146.03 points, or 3.19 per cent, to 4,722.34.

PARIS - The CAC 40 added 68.98 points, or 2.31 per cent, to finish at 3,052.08.

TOKYO - The Nikkei suffered its eighth consecutive loss after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party lost elections in Tokyo on Sunday, piling pressure on Prime Minister Taro Aso. His election bureau chief said Monday he was set to call a snap poll next month, leading to fears of political upheaval.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index dropped 236.95 points, or 2.55 per cent, to 9,050.33.

HONG KONG - The financial sector was the day’s biggest loser as investors took profits ahead of earnings reports.
The Hang Seng Index closed down 453.79 points, or 2.56 per cent, at 17,254.63.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand share market got off to a quiet start to a week that is expected to be lacklustre.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed down 1.393 points, or 0.051 per cent, at 2,736.889.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is expected to open stronger following significant gains on Wall Street on a surge in financial stocks ahead of the US reporting season.
At 0730 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was 58 points higher at 3,761.
In economic news on Tuesday, National Australia Bank releases its monthly business survey for June.
On Monday, the Australian share market closed moderately weaker on falls in resource and financial stocks.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was down 56.6 points, or 1.49 per cent, at 3737.5 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index had fallen 52.6 points, or 1.39 per cent, to 3738 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices slipped as the market remained focused on a gloomy economic outlook that could further curb energy demand.
Traders remained concerned about weak energy demand as oil prices traded about 60 per cent below all-time high peaks above $US147 reached on July 11, 2008.
Demand concerns have intensified amid a recent strong increase in US oil product inventories.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in August, slipped 20 cents from Friday’s market close to finish at $US59.69 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for delivery in August edged down three cents to settle at $US60.69 a barrel.

COMEX

Prices for gold and other metals rebounded as investors snapped up riskier assets hoping that earnings reports will show an improving economy.
Investors are keeping a close eye on second-quarter corporate earnings results, which pick up pace this week.
Commodities also benefited from a decline in the US dollar against other major currencies as investors found increased appetite for risk. Commodities, which are priced in US dollars, tend to benefit when the greenback falls because it makes them cheaper for foreign investors.
Gold for August delivery gained $10 to settle at $US922.50 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Other precious metals also rose. September silver was up 14 cents to $US12.785 an ounce, while July platinum added $9.70 to $US1,111.10 an ounce.
Among base metals, September copper futures rose 1.15 cents to $US2.223 a pound.

(Gold and oil are the August contracts on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver and Copper are the July contracts.)

NEW YORK - US stocks finished mostly lower on Friday with investors fretting over fears that recovery from the global recession remains distant.
Ahead of Friday’s opening, the US government said the US trade deficit had narrowed sharply in May to its lowest level in nearly a decade, led by a plunge in imported oil.
The deficit fell nearly ten per cent in May to a seasonally adjusted $US26 billion ($A33.18 billion), its lowest level since November 1999.
The news appeared moderately positive for the US economy but also reflected weak global trade flows.
Analysts said the report showed domestic spending remained weak and an economic recovery will not occur quickly.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 36.65 points, or 0.45 per cent, to settle at 8,146.52, closing out a fourth consecutive weekly loss for blue chips.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq edged up 3.48 points, or 0.2 per cent, to 1,756.03 while the broad market Standard & Poor’s 500 index shed 3.55 points, or 0.4 per cent, to 879.13.

LONDON - European stock exchanges wilted, dragged down by a disappointing report on US consumer confidence and a fall in oil prices.
The London FTSE 100 index shed 31.49 points, or 0.76 per cent, to close at 4,127.17.

FRANKFURT - The Dax slipped 53.76 points, or 1.16 per cent, to 4,576.31.

PARIS - The CAC 40 fell 42.84 points, or 1.42 per cent, to finish at 2,983.1.

TOKYO - A stronger yen continued to weigh on Japanese exporters, while new wholesale price data stoked worries that renewed deflation could hinder a recovery in the world’s number two economy.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index dropped 3.78 points, or 0.04 per cent, to 9,287.28.

HONG KONG - The Hang Seng Index ended down 82.17 points, or 0.46 per cent, at 17,708.42.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand share market started the day slightly ahead and ended it slightly lower.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed down 3.399 points, or 0.124 per cent, at 2,738.282.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is likely to open relatively flat following small falls in overseas markets and largely unchanged commodities prices.
At 0720 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was three points higher at 3,754.
In economic news on Monday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics releases lending finance data for May.
In equities, WHL Energy Ltd, Hot Rock Ltd, Mutiny Gold Ltd, Peninsula Minerals Ltd and Tianshan Goldfields Ltd hold general meetings.
Neptune Marine Services Ltd holds an extraordinary general meeting in Perth.
The Mannkal Economic Education Foundation hosts a half day conference in Perth on the free market system.
On Friday, the Australian share market closed in positive territory driven by gains in the materials sector on the back of stronger commodity prices.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was up 30.8 points, or 0.82 per cent, at 3,794.1 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index gained 29.2 points, or 0.78 per cent, to 3,790.6 points.

NYMEX

Oil closed below the psychological barrier of $US60 a barrel in New York on Friday as the market focused on weak demand and risks of deflation amid a steep global downturn.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in August settled at $US59.89 a barrel, shedding 52 cents from its Thursday close.
In intraday, trade the futures contract sank to $US58.72, its lowest level since May 18 and nearly $US15 below last week’s peaks.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for August delivery dropped 58 cents to close at $US60.52 a barrel.

COMEX

Gold and other commodities were sold off as investors refrained from buying risky assets as they await more clarity on the economy from earnings reports.
Gold for August delivery slipped $US3.70 to settle at $US912.50 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
July silver fell 29 cents to $12.645 an ounce, while July copper futures fell 2.6 cents to $2.2115 a pound.

MORNING MARKET REPORT
(Gold and oil are the August contracts on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver and Copper are the July contracts.)

NEW YORK - Wall Street shares ended little changed on Wednesday with investors cautious about the economic outlook at the kickoff of the corporate earnings season.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 14.81 points, or 0.18 per cent, to settle at 8,178.41, after wobbling in and out of positive territory.
The Nasdaq composite drifted up one point, or 0.06 per cent, to 1,747.17, but the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index lost 1.47 points, or 0.17 per cent, to settle at 879.56.

LONDON -Europe’s main stock markets fell, with London’s benchmark FTSE 100 index dropping 46.77 points, or 1.12 per cent to 4,140.23 points.

FRANKFURT - Frankfurt’s DAX lost 0.56 per cent, or 25.54 points, to 4,572.65.

PARIS - The CAC 40 lost 38.86 points, 1.27 per cent, to close at 3,009.71.

TOKYO - Japanese shares fell for a sixth straight session, hitting the lowest level in more than a month, as worries deepened about the economic outlook and a stronger yen.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index dropped 227.04 points, or 2.35 per cent, to 9,420.75.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index ended down 141.20 points, or 0.79 per cent, at 17,721.07.

WELLINGTON -
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 4.36 points, or 0.16 per cent, at 2,750.6.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is likely to open lower on Thursday following a sharp drop in commodity prices and a mixed lead from Wall Street.
At 0713 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was four points lower at 3,721.
In economic news on Thursday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) releases labour force data for June.
The Melbourne Institute Survey of consumer inflationary expectations and the Westpac/Melbourne Institute survey of consumer unemployment expectations are due, both for July.
In equities, CSR Ltd will hold its annual general meeting in Sydney.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) chairman Graeme Samuel will address the American Chamber of Commerce in Australia on “The Changing Trade Practices Landscape”.
The Australian share market closed flat on Wednesday following a negative lead from United States markets.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was one point, or 0.03 per cent, higher at 3767.9, while the broader All Ordinaries index shed 1.8 points, or 0.05 per cent, to 3,766.0 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices tumbled again, knocked lower by a massive spike in US oil product inventories that stoked fears about weak energy demand in the world’s biggest economy.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in August, finished at $US60.14 a barrel, sliding $US2.79 from its Tuesday close.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for August delivery dived $US2.80 to settle at $US60.43 a barrel, after hitting an intraday low of $US60.30.

COMEX

August gold fell $US20.10, or 2.16 per cent, to settle at $US909.00 an ounce. July silver lost 36.8 cents, 2.78 per cent, to $US12.852 an ounce, and July copper was down 6.65 cents, or 2.99 per cent, to $US2.159 a pound.

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NEW YORK - Wall Street struggled to a mixed finish on Monday, as a better-than-expected survey on the US services sector helped offset pessimism from last week’s grim unemployment report.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average reversed early weakness and rose 44.13 points, or 0.53 per cent, to settle at 8,324.87.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite fell 9.12 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 1,787.4, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 broad-market index edged up 2.3 points, 0.26 per cent, to settle at 898.72.

LONDON - Europe’s main stock markets slid in gloomy trading as investors reeled from grim US jobs data and looked ahead to a wave of company earnings results.
London’s FTSE 100 index closed 0.98 per cent or 41.37 points lower at 4,194.91 points.

FRANKFURT - Frankfurt’s DAX fell 56.39 points, or 1.2 per cent to 4,651.82 points.

PARIS - The CAC 40 fell 37.35 points, or 1.19 per cent, to 3,082.16.

TOKYO - Japanese share prices fell for a fourth straight session amid uncertainty about prospects for the economy and corporate earnings, dealers said.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index dropped 135.2 points, or 1.38 per cent, to 9,680.87.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index closed down 223.99 points, or 1.23 per cent, at 17,979.41.

WELLINGTON - The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed down 18.53 points, or 0.67 per cent, at 2,742.97.

SYDNEY - The Australian sharemarket is likely to open flat on Tuesday following a mixed lead from Wall Street and futures pointing down slightly.
At 0705 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the September share price index contract was down one point at 3,748.
In economic news, the Reserve Bank of Australia holds its monthly board meeting and is due to announce its decision on interest rate at 1430 AEST.
In data, the Australian Industry Group/Housing Industry Association Australian Performance of Construction Index for June also is due, and the Manpower/Melbourne Institute employment report for July also is scheduled for release.
On Monday, the Australian share market closed lower dragged down by weakness in the mining and energy sectors.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index fell 44.5 points, or 1.16 per cent, to 3,783.7 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index dropped 42.4 points, or 1.11 per cent, to 3,784.2 points.

NYMEX

Oil prices slumped, extending heavy losses seen last week as the market reconsidered prospects for a quick recovery from the global economic crisis after weak US labor market data.
Prices slumped despite a new pipeline attack in Nigeria, an important exporter of oil.
Meanwhile, France and Britain agreed to press Group of Eight partners to support a plan for stabilising the oil market.
New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for August delivery, shed $US2.68 to close at $US64.05 a barrel as trade resumed after a three-day holiday weekend in the United States.
Brent North Sea crude for delivery in August dropped $US1.56 to settle at the same level of $US64.05 a barrel in London trade.

COMEX

August gold fell $US6.70 to settle at $US924.30 an ounce, July silver lost 17 cents to $US13.238 an ounce, and July copper was down 4.3 cents to $US2.2625 a pound.

NEW YORK - Wall Street tumbled with investors turning cautious as auto giant General Motors moved towards bankruptcy and the market was gripped by fears about rising US debt.
Traders said investors entered the market cautious after General Motors reported that it had failed to win sufficient support from bondholders for a deal to swap debt for equity, making a bankruptcy filing more likely.
Fears also re-emerged about ballooning US government debt and its impact on borrowing costs amid a prolonged recession, pushing yields for US Treasury bonds higher.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 173.47 points, or 2.05 per cent, to 8,300.02.
The Nasdaq shed 19.35 points, or 1.11 per cent, to 1,731.08 and the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index fell 17.27 points, or 1.9 per cent, to 893.06.

LONDON - European investors opted to consolidate sharp gains made on an unexpected jump in US consumer confidence a day earlier, seeing most markets finish with modest gains.
In London the FTSE index of leading shares added 4.51 points, or 0.1 per cent, to 4,416.23 points.

FRANKFURT - Germany’s DAX was up 15.17 points, or 0.3 per cent, to 5,000.77, just edging over the key 5,000 points resistance level.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index rose 24.77 points, or 0.76 per cent, to 3,294.86.

TOKYO - Japanese shares closed up as investors took their cue from strong gains on Wall Street on Tuesday when dealers cheered an unexpected surge in US consumer confidence.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index climbed 127.96 points, or 1.37 per cent, to 9,438.77.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index closed up up 893.71 points, or 5.26 per cent, at 17,885.27, its highest close in seven months.
Banking giant HSBC and property developers led the surge.

WELLINGTON - The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 35.708 points, or 1.31 per cent, at 2769.783 points.

SYDNEY - Australian shares are are expected to open lower as caution returned to US markets after Tuesday’s unexpected rally.
Concerns were fuelled by auto giant General Motors moving further towards bankruptcy.
At 0725 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the June share price index contract was 29 points lower at 3,757.
In economic news on Thursday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics issues private new capital expenditure and expected expenditure for the March quarter.
Reserve Bank of Australia deputy governor Ric Battellino addresses the annual Securities and Derivatives Industry Association Conference.
The Housing Industry Association will release its state and national Outlooks for the March quarter.
In company news, Tower Australia Group Ltd releases half year results.
Austar United Communications Ltd, Sino Gold Mining Ltd, InfoChoice Ltd, Terramin Australia Ltd, Icon Energy Ltd and Iluka Resources Ltd hold annual general meetings.
ANZ Banking Group Ltd chief executive Mike Smith addresses an Australia Israel Chamber of Commerce luncheon in Melbourne.
Myer Group chief executive Bernie Brookes addresses an American Chamber of Commerce luncheon in Sydney.
Fortescue Metals chief Andrew Forrest speaks at a Securities and Derivatives Industry Association conference in Sydney.
The Minerals Week 2009 conference concludes in Canberra.
The Australian share market closed higher on Wednesday led by the industrials and materials sectors, but a late sell-off in Rio Tinto capped the bourse’s gains.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index was up 12.7 points, or 0.34 per cent, at 3,801.1, while the broader All Ordinaries index advanced 13.7 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 3,795.3.

NYMEX

The price of oil hit a new six-month high above $US63 a barrel ahead of key Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) talks.
The price is rising amid expectations of economic recovery that could boost demand, traders said.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for delivery in July, rose $US1 from Tuesday’s close to end at $US63.45 a barrel, a level last seen in early November.
Brent North Sea crude for July in London rose by $US1.26 to $US62.50 per barrel, also a new six-month high.

COMEX

Gold prices were little changed as demand for the metal eased as the US dollar rose.
Gold for June delivery ended steady at $US953.30 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
July silver gained 26.5 cents to $US14.865 an ounce, while July copper futures dropped two cents to $US2.121 a pound.

NEW YORK - US stocks gave up a big early advance to finish moderately lower on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve reduced its economic outlook for 2009 and bank stocks sank.
The central bank said it expects some business conditions to improve in coming months, but it also lowered its assessment of the economy for the full year and said unemployment could reach nearly ten per cent.
Stocks had been fluctuating throughout much of the afternoon as rising commodity prices drove energy and material stocks higher, while bank stocks gave up early gains.
Energy stocks showed some of the biggest gains after oil topped $US62 a barrel for the first time since November.
But financials turned lower after enthusiasm about Bank of America Corp’s ability to raise billions of dollars by selling stock couldn’t erase fears that banks are still a long way from scrubbing all the stains off their balance sheets.
The Dow Jones industrials fell 52.81, or 0.62 per cent, to 8,422.04. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index slipped 4.66, or 0.51 per cent, to 903.47 and the Nasdaq composite index fell 6.7, or 0.39 per cent, to 1,727.84.

LONDON - Europe’s stock markets mostly rose, but London bucked the trend as investors sold shares to take profits despite a Wall Street rally and an upbeat outlook for the financial sector.
London’s FTSE 100 index closed down 13.84 points, or 0.31 per cent, at 4,468.41 points.

FRANKFURT - The DAX rose 79.32 points, or 1.6 per cent, to 5,038.94.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 28.41 points, or 0.87 per cent, to 3,303.37.

TOKYO - Tokyo stocks rose for a second straight day as investors looked beyond a record contraction in the domestic economy and focused on prospects for a recovery.
The benchmark Nikkei-225 index gained 54.35 points, or 0.59 per cent, to 9,344.64.

HONG KONG - Hong Kong share prices closed 0.39 per cent lower on profit-taking in local property firms.
The benchmark Hang Seng Index ended 68.19 points down at 17,475.84.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand sharemarket managed to finish a fairly lacklustre session with modest gains as the Australian market also drifted.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed up 10.28 points, or 0.37 per cent, at 2801.08.

SYDNEY - The Australian share market may open little changed after gains in commodity prices boosts energy producers and miners, mitigating the effect of the declines in equities on Wall Street.
At 0734 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the June share price index contract was two points higher at 3,836.
In economic news on Thursday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics releases average weekly ordinary time earnings data for the February quarter, and new motor vehicles sales data for April.
The Reserve Bank of Australia releases its monthly bulletin.
The Australian Office of Financial Management tenders 13, 26 and 39 week Treasury notes.
Westpac and the Melbourne Institute release the survey of consumer unemployment expectations for May, and the Melbourne Institute also releases its survey of consumer inflationary expectations for May.
In company news, it’s the first day of the AMEC 2009 National Mining Congress in Perth.
Roc Oil Company Ltd, Everest Financial Group Ltd, Cyclopharm Ltd and Adelaide Brighton Ltd hold annual general meetings.
On Wednesday, the Australian share market closed slightly higher as heavyweight resources stocks posted gains on a day of light trade.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 closed up 7.3 points, or 0.19 per cent, at 3824.6, while the broader All Ordinaries added 8.3 points, or 0.22 per cent, to 3808.9.

NYMEX

Oil prices hit a six-month high, climbing above $US62 a barrel after a government report showed a drop in US oil supplies for the second straight week.
Benchmark crude for July delivery rose $US1.94 to settle at $US62.04 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Crude prices jumped to $US62.14 earlier in the day, their highest level since Nov 11.
In London, Brent prices increased $US1.67 settle at $US60.59 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange.
Crude stockpiles dropped by 2.1 million barrels for the week ended May 15, according to Energy Department’s Energy Information Administration. Gasoline inventories dropped by 4.3 million barrels.
That was a bigger decline than analysts had expected, especially for gasoline.
One of the main drivers this year for energy prices has been the enormous amount of crude and gasoline in storage. Recently, benchmark crude prices also have been heavily influenced by the stock market and the strength of the dollar.
In other Nymex trading, gasoline for June delivery fell less than a cent to settle at $US1.8095 a gallon and heating oil rose 5.45 cents to settle at $US1.5411 a gallon. Natural gas for June delivery added 6.8 cents to settle at $US4.098 per 1,000 cubic feet.

COMEX

Gold prices gained ground as the dollar sank to a fresh low against the pound for the year and to its lowest level against the euro since January.
Gold for June delivery rose $US10.70 to settle at $US937.40 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange, its highest close since March 26.
July silver added 15.5 cents to $US14.28 an ounce, while July copper futures rose 3.7 cents to $US2.1065 a pound.

(Oil and Gold are the June contracts on the NY Mercantile Exchange. Silver and Copper are the July contracts.)

NEW YORK - Wall Street stocks churned lower on Friday amid lacklustre economic data and news that General Motors planned a major cut in the number of its dealers, which could add to the labour market’s woes.
The blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average gave up early gains and fell 62.68 points (0.75 per cent) to end at 8,268.64.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq dropped 9.07 points (0.54 per cent) to 1,680.14 and the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index shed 10.19 points (1.14 per cent) to 882.88.
The losses capped a week in which the broad market fell nearly five per cent, and ended a streak of eight gains over the past nine weeks for Wall Street’s main indexes.

LONDON - European stock markets closed mixed, helped off lows by early gains on Wall Street as US data offset news of a record slump in the eurozone economy.
Dealers said that after a volatile, choppy week, investors remained cautious and hesitant after recent gains made on hopes of an early end to the global slump were trimmed back.
In London, the FTSE 100 index of leading shares closed down 14.47 points, or by 0.33 per cent, at 4,348.11.

FRANKFURT - The DAX index was virtually unchanged, down 0.97 point, or 0.02 per cent, at 4,737.5.

PARIS - The CAC 40 index gained 12.76 points, or 0.4 per cent, to 3,169.05.

TOKYO - Japan’s Nikkei average advanced 1.9 per cent, as machinery shares gained after orders dropped less than forecast and Sony Corp surged after projecting a smaller-than-expected annual loss.
The machinery orders data also helped Tokyo Electron rise nearly eight per cent, becoming the biggest positive contributor to the Nikkei despite forecasting a record annual operating loss.
The benchmark Nikkei rose 171.29 points in light trade to 9,265.02, after falling 2.6 per cent the previous day to its lowest close since May 1.
The Nikkei fell 1.8 per cent on the week.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index rose 249.01, or 1.51 per cent, at 16,790.7.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand sharemarket put some runs on the board, with Sir Ron Brierley’s Guinness Peat Group among the best performers.
The NZSX-50 index closed up 14.78 points, or 0.53 per cent, at 2,790.9, off the session high of 2,809.835.
Turnover was worth $NZ98.87 million ($A77.8 million). There were 41 rises and 36 falls among the 107 stocks traded.

SYDNEY - The Australian share market is expected to open lower after negative leads from Wall Street in securities, metals and oil, although gold was higher.
At 0720 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the June share price index contract was 42 points lower at 3,737.
In economic news on Monday, the Housing Industry Association releases its affordability report for the March quarter.
In companies news, GrainCorp Ltd releases interim results.
In Sydney on Friday, the Australian share market finished firmer led by the major miners and rebound in cyclical stocks and stronger offshore markets.
The S&P/ASX200 index gained 49.8 points, or by 1.34 per cent, at 3773.2, while the broader All Ordinaries index advanced 48.1 points, or 1.3 per cent, at 3758.9.

NYMEX

Oil prices fell sharply on Friday as news of a deepening recession in Europe added to concerns of shrinking demand for the key commodity.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for delivery in June, dropped $US2.28 from the closing price on Thursday to end at $US56.34 a barrel.
In London, Brent North Sea crude for July delivery lost $US2.62 to $US55.98.

COMEX

June gold rose $US2.90 to $US931.30 per fince ounce. July Silver fell three cents, however, to $US14.01 per fine ounce, while copper also fell, by 0.95 cent to $2.0175 per lb.

NEW YORK - Wall Street climbed higher on Friday as sentiment was boosted by Ford’s narrower-than-expected loss, combined with data suggesting the ailing US economy may have found a bottom.
Ford posted a loss of $US1.4 billion in the first quarter, not as bad as expected by analysts. The company said its restructuring was on track to achieve “break-even or better” results by 2011 without government aid.
Economic reports showed declines, but were also not as bad as expected.
The Commerce Department reported new US homes sales fell 0.6 per cent in March, but were stronger than anticipated following an upward revision to the prior month’s figures.
A separate report showed orders for US manufactured durable goods dipped 0.8 per cent, not as weak as the 1.5 per cent decline anticipated.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 119.23 points, or 1.5 per cent, to close at 8,076.29.
The Nasdaq composite jumped 42.08 points, or 2.55 per cent, to 1,694.29 and the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 index added 14.31 points, or 1.68 per cent, to 866.23.

LONDON - European stock markets rallied on encouraging economic data from across the continent.
Britain reported a surprise jump in retail sales, France saw a rise in consumer spending, while a German business confidence index rose from record lows.
Analysts were hopeful the data indicated an economic turnaround was likely before the end of the year.
London’s FTSE 100 index closed up 137.76 points, or 3.43 per cent, to a two-month high of 4,155.99.

FRANKFURT - Germany’s DAX rose 136.11 points, or three per cent, 4,674.32.

PARIS - France’s CAC 40 gained 94.23 points, or 3.13 per cent, to 3,102.85.

TOKYO - Japan’s top securities firm, Nomura, announced a record $US7.3 billion annual loss, sending the Nikkei-225 index down 139.02 points, or 1.57 per cent, to 8,707.99.

HONG KONG - The benchmark Hang Seng Index ended up 44.39 points, or 0.29 per cent, at 15,258.85.

WELLINGTON - The New Zealand share market slid lower on Friday despite a rise on Wall Street the previous night.
The benchmark NZSX-50 index closed down 2.464 points, or 0.09 per cent, at 2,656.385.

SYDNEY - The Australian share market is expected to open higher after US and European stock markets ended last week with strong gains on promising economic data.
At 0710 AEST on the Sydney Futures Exchange, the March SPI futures index was up 43 points at 3,775.
In equities news on Monday, Australian Agricultural Company holds an extraordinary general meeting for shareholders to decide on the purchase of Tipperary and Litchfield cattle stations for $105 million.
Engineering and construction firm Koon Holdings holds its annual general meeting in Singapore.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants conference begins in Brisbane.
The Australian share market closed lower on Friday as investors began to fret that the recent rally was fading.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index fell 30.7 points, or 0.82 per cent, to 3712.3, while the broader All Ordinaries was down 27.6 points, or 0.75 per cent, at 3668.2.

NYMEX

Oil prices jumped above $US51 on Friday as a flagging dollar and rising stock markets offset concerns about weak demand arising from the global economic downturn.
Oil was being bought as a safe haven as the market awaits the results of the US government’s “stress tests” on the banking system, some analysts said.
A drop in the US dollar was also making oil more expensive in dollar terms.
New York’s main futures contract, light sweet crude for June, gained $US1.93 to close at $US51.55 per barrel.
Brent North Sea crude for delivery in June advanced $US1.56 to settle at $US51.67 a barrel.

COMEX

Gold prices closed higher Friday, boosted by some weakness in the dollar. But the gains were dented by more buying on Wall Street.
Gold prices traded within a narrow range but managed to finish higher for the third straight day as the US dollar weakened against most other currencies.
Investors often use the precious metal as a hedge against inflation, which can be triggered by a weak dollar.
Gold for June delivery rose $7.50 to settle at $914.10 an ounce on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Other metals also rose. May silver gained 16.5 cents to $US12.92 an ounce, while July copper futures added 5.9 cents to $US2.05 a pound.