US equity futures are now pointing to a slightly higher start to the session. That follows the release of better than expected data on durable goods orders, not to mention the positive comments from ratings agency Fitch as regards the very short-term outlook for the United States´ AAA credit rating.

Of interest as well, the Financial Times reports today on how shale 'boom' is firing up opposition from environmental groups, but also investors, with US gas flaring nowadays clearly visible from outer space and with a luminosity rivalling that of cities such as Chicago.

On a more negative note, earth moving machinery giant Caterpillar said Monday it expects 2013 earnings per share of between $7 to $9, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.54 a share.

Goldman Sachs has lowered its recommendation on AK Steel to 'sell' form `neutral'.

Goldman Sachs is expected to raise $1bn from the sale of a stake in Chinese lender ICBC.

US durable goods orders spiked higher in December, rising at a 4.6% month-on-month clip, versus the 2.0% increase which was forecast.

The critical 'core' series for durable goods, which excludes both Defense and civil aircraft, came in comfortably ahead of economists´ expectations.

Pending home sales figures are due for release at 15:00.

10 year US Treasury yields are now rising by 4 basis points, to the 1.97% mark.

Front month West Texas crude futures are now moving higher by 0.45% to the 96,31 dollar per barrel mark on the NYMEX.

AB

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