The markets have been strengthened by a better than expected US jobs report on Friday. Hiring was much stronger than anticipated as 165,000 new jobs were added stemming fears of a continuing malaise in the US economy. The data helped the dollar to advance against the Yen where it has increased .4% adding to Fridays 1% gains as the Dollar approaches the 100 mark VS the Yen.
The Yen had been taking a recent beating in any case due to the Bank of Japan’s announced plan to boost the economy.
Euro Stocks fell Monday and the Euro was weaker against the Dollar as Euro Zone retail sales fell for the second consecutive month. Overall Euro Zone economic data is week as unemployment continues to rise and and purchasing power is stagnant due to limited wage growth.
Overall trading in Euro markets is light as the the UK market is closed for a public holiday.
Futures indicate a flat opening for US stocks after Fridays strong showing. Asian markets are strong in response to Fridays US news with light trading due a public holiday in Japan.
Oil is up on the US employment data and over concerns over Mideast oil supplies after weekend escalation in Syrian fighting.
