WORLD HEADLINES – Stocks in Europe advanced as energy companies gained after a bullish outlook from one of the sector’s bellwethers. The dollar steadied and Treasuries edged lower ahead of a Federal Reserve confirmation hearing and debate on U.S. tax reform.

STOCKS – US stocks futures traded slightly higher ahead of busy schedule of speeches from Fed and central bankers through out the trading day.

BONDS – The yield on 10-year Treasuries was unchanged at 2.33 percent. Germany’s 10-year yield decreased one basis point to 0.33 percent, the lowest in almost three weeks.

COMMODITIES – Copper and nickel led industrial metals lower as weakening Chinese macro data and slowing home sales increase concern about the outlook for demand in the world’s top user. Crude oil extended its decline from the highest level in more than two years before OPEC and its allies meet this week.

CURRENCIES – The Japanese yen decreased 0.2 percent to 111.29 per dollar.

ECONOMIC DATA – US FOMC Member Dudley Speaks at 9:15, Fed Chair Designate Powell Speaks at 9:45, CB Consumer Confidence at 10:00, FOMC Member Harker Speaks at 10:15, BOC Gov Poloz Speaks at 11:30, RBNZ Financial Stability Report at 15:00, Treasury Sec Mnuchin Speaks at 15:45, RBNZ Gov Spencer Speaks at 19:00 ET.