The Non-Manufacturing PMI Index registered 53.4 percent in February, 0.1 percentage point lower than the January reading of 53.5 percent. This represents continued growth in the non-manufacturing sector at a slightly slower rate. According to the NMI, 14 non-manufacturing industries reported growth in February. The majority of the respondents' comments continue to be positive about business conditions. The respondents are projecting a slight optimism in regards to the overall economy.
Tomorrow's session will be marked by Australian Retail Sales figures. Increase by 0.4% is forecasted. In the US session NFP and Trade Balance figures will be released. Analysts predict incline to 195,000 in NFP, while Unemployment Rate should remain unchanged at 4.9%. Trade Balance deficit should widen to $43.8 billion.
Figures to watch:
Non-Farm Employment Change/Unemployment Rate/Average Hourly Earnings (Friday 14:30)
Trade Balance (Friday 14:30)