UPDATED 6:45 ET

STOCKS – European stocks were little changed, trading near their highest level since May 2008, before a report on hiring by U.S. companies that may help investors assess the strength of America’s economic recovery. U.S. index futures fluctuated, while Asian shares climbed.

BONDS – Treasuries fell for the first time in three days before the U.S. sells $21 billion of 10-year notes as signs the economic recovery is gathering pace spurred bets the Federal Reserve will keep reducing its debt purchases.

COMMODITIES – Crude Oil rose for a second day on speculation government data will show crude stockpiles declined a sixth week in the U.S., the world’s biggest oil consumer.

CURRENCIES – The US Dollar strengthened for a second day against the euro before the Federal Reserve releases the minutes of its December policy meeting as investors debate how quickly policy makers will reduce stimulus.

ECONOMIC DATA – US ADP Non-Farm Employment Change due at 8:15, Crude Oil Inventories at 10:30, FOMC Meeting Minutes at 14:00, Building Approvals at 19:30, CHY CPI at 20:30 ET.