US equities were boosted by the positive employment data overnight which indicate healthy momentum in the job market growth. Nonetheless, the weak inflation reading could hold Fed's hand on hiking rates from the current near zero for longer than expected. S&P 500 gained 22.62 pts, or 1.08% to close at record high of 2121.1. DJIA also rose 191.75 pts, or 1.06% to close at 18252.24, comparing to record close of 18288.63. Both indices are likely to break out from recent range decisively today or next week. The greenback, however, remains broadly weak as it's believed that even a September rate hike is in doubt in some traders minds. And such weakness might persists if the upcoming data doesn't warrant a strong rebound in the economy in Q2 comparing to the weak Q1. Dollar index, currently at 93.4, is heading towards medium term fibonacci level at 92.18.
In Eurozone, ECB president Mario Draghi said the quantitative easing program has already showed "substantial effect" on asset prices and economic confidence. He noted that "as a result of the comprehensive easing cycle from June 2014 to January 2015, both the inflation and growth outlook have improved considerably and consumer confidence is now on the rise." Nonetheless, he noted "ultimately" ECB has to see an "equivalent effect on investment, consumption and inflation". He reiterated that ECB will "implement in full our purchase program as announced" until there is "sustained adjustment" in inflation path.
In Greece, it's reported that prime minister Yanis Varoufakis is seeking delay payment on the EUR 27b Greek bonds to ECB. That bonds were purchased by the ECB back in 2010 and 2011. And, Varoufakis said "these bonds must be pushed into the future, this is clear also to the ECB." Also, he warned that the country risks running out of cash within two weeks if no agreement could be reached with its creditors to unlock the last tranche of aids.
On the data front, Japan domestic CGPI dropped -2.1% yoy in April and consumer confidence will be released later in Asian session. In European session, Swiss PPI and UK construction output will be featured. Main focus today will be on US data, including Empire state manufacturing, industrial production and U of Michigan consumer sentiment. Canada will release manufacturing shipments and international securities transactions.