>> STOCKS – European stocks were little changed after the Stoxx Europe 600 Index climbed to its highest level since May 2008. U.S. stock-index futures were little changed and Asian shares gained.

>> BONDS – Treasury 10-year yields were about two basis points from the highest level in two years as an improving U.S. economy bolstered speculation the Federal Reserve will end its bond purchases in 2014.

>> COMMODITIES – Gold fell for the first time in five days in London, set for its biggest annual loss in three decades, as an improving economy cut demand for a protection of wealth. CURRENCIES –

>> The pound headed for a second year of gains versus the dollar after an industry report showed a gauge of U.K. house prices rose for an 11th month in December.

>> ECONOMIC DATA – US Pending Home Sales due at 10:00 ET.