(CercleFinance.com) – The New York Stock Exchange should open higher Thursday morning, supported by the publication of rather solid economic indicators obscuring the caution that prevails on the health front.
Half an hour before the opening, futures contracts on the major New York indices rose between 0.1% and 0.2%, suggesting a slightly favorable opening.
The publication before the opening of several statistics better than expected, or at least in line with expectations, seems to support the odds.
In particular, household consumption expenditure rose 0.6% in November, where analysts at Jefferies had only expected an increase of 0.4%.
The number of weekly registrations for unemployment benefits remained stable during the week of December 13, at 205,000, like the revised figure for the previous week.
Durable goods orders for their part increased more than expected in November (+ 2.5%), testifying to the strength of the economy despite inflationary pressures and the health situation.
Investors are now awaiting the University of Michigan survey on US consumer sentiment, due for release early in the session, as well as the New Home Sales figures.
Already supported by encouraging indicators, Wall Street had opted for an uptrend on Wednesday, the Dow Jones having ended on an increase of more than 0.7%, while the Nasdaq Composite took 1.2%.
Having remained on the defensive in recent days, investors have relied on these favorable figures to switch back to buying equities, in particular focusing on values linked to consumption.
Fears of a deterioration in the health situation with the rapid spread of the Omicron variant before the end of the year holidays nevertheless continue to curb risk appetite.
Volumes should remain sluggish on the eve of Christmas, a lack of liquidity which could, according to observers, amplify the cautious movements.
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