Crude futures finished higher today, thanks in part to that Wall Street Journal report -- which indicated that the Fed is considering a new, "sterilized" version of its bond-buying regime, in an attempt to provide monetary accommodation without sparking inflation. The commodity also received a boost from today's upbeat jobs data, as well as easing fears over tomorrow's voluntary Greek debt restructuring. These positive catalysts helped black gold finish higher, despite a smaller-than-anticipated weekly climb in domestic crude supplies. By the close, crude for April delivery added $1.46, or 1.4%, to finish at $106.16 per barrel.
Likewise, gold futures ended a three-day losing streak today, following suit with stocks and oil. An improved outlook on Greece's impending bond swap also supported the precious metal, as the euro gained ground against the U.S. dollar. By the end of the session, April-dated gold gained $11.80, or 0.7%, to settle at $1,683.90 per ounce.
Levels to Watch in Trading:
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Mid-Caps Nearing a Triple of March 2009 Lows