Quant Report for 2010-03-17

Updated 5:20am EST - The NIKKEI posted gains, closing up by +1.17%. European equity markets are all in positive territory. US equity futures continue their upward trend, higher ahead of the US open. Commodities are generally stronger. Metals are resuming recent strength led by the appreciation of gold. Crude is slightly higher, trading above the $82/barrel handle. In the currency markets, the Japanese yen is showing significant weakness while the commodity currencies (Australian dollar, Canadian dollar) continue to rise. UK employment data along with MPC meeting minutes are due out at 5:30am EST. PPI figures will be released out of the US at 8:30am EST.