STOCKS – European stocks fell, heading for a second week of losses, as investors awaited a referendum that may lead to Crimea’s secession from Ukraine. U.S. stock-index futures were little changed, while Asian shares slid.

BONDS – Demand for Treasuries at this week’s note and bond auctions was the highest since December as investors sought a haven from the risk that turmoil in Ukraine’s Crimea region will worsen.

COMMODITIES –  Gold traded near the highest level in six months as escalating tensions in Ukraine, before a vote in Crimea on breaking away to join Russia, boosted demand for the precious metal as a store of value.

CURRENCIES – The Japanese Yen rose, extending its biggest weekly gain versus the dollar in seven weeks, as investors unwind long global stock positions in risk aversion flows.

ECONOMIC DATA – US Core PPI due at 8:30, Prelim UoM Consumer Sentiment at 9:55 ET.