In the US session, Durable goods Orders and Unemployment Claims figures were released. Orders for durable goods fell in February for the third time in four months, reflecting a broad-based slowdown that underscores lingering softness in U.S. capital investment. Bookings for goods and materials meant to last at least three years declined 2.8% after a 4.2% gain that was less the previously reported, Commerce Department data showed Thursday. Bookings for non-military capital goods excluding aircraft dropped 1.8%, more than estimated.
Separate report, on Unemployment Claims showed that in the week ending March 19, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 265,000, an increase of 6,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised down by 6,000 from 265,000 to 259,000. The 4-week moving average was 259,750, an increase of 250 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised down by 8,500 from 268,000 to 259,500.
There will be no data releases from Australia tomorrow. In the US session Final GDP figures will be published. Analysts forecast no change from 1% increase.
Figures to watch:
Final GDP (Friday 13:30)
Last modified on Thursday, 24 March 2016
