Currency Updates:
U.S. Dollar Trading (USD) a strong day in commodities sent the USD lower across the board. End of year position adjustments in a thin market meant moves were sharp and whippy with most traders returning in January. In US stocks, DJIA +7 points closing at 11577, S& P -1 points closing at 1256 and NASDAQ -10 points closing at 2652. Looking Ahead, December ISM Manufacturing at 56.9 vs. 56.6.
The Euro (EUR) rallied above 1.3400 as the Dollar came under pressure and fears subsided temporarily about the future of EU debt. With most stock markets closed there was little catalyst or reason for the moves.   EUR/USD traded with a low of 1.3280 and a high of 1.3425 before closing at 1.3390. Looking ahead, December PMI forecast at 56.8.
The Japanese Yen (JPY) tested Y81 after being under pressure all day due to Dollar weakness. Most crosses held their ground or even rallied however as risk appetite remains quite strong. Overall the USDJPY traded with a low of 80.92 and a high of 81.60 before closing the day around 81.10 in the New York session. Looking ahead, Bank Holiday.
The Sterling (GBP) was extremely strong going into the US open up over 200 pips on the day with EUR/GBP and GBP/JPY crosses supporting the major. Overall the GBP/USD traded with a low of 1.5435 and a high of 1.5665 before closing the day at 1.5595 in the New York session. Looking ahead, Bank Holiday.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) traded at new record highs above 1.0250 as the market continues to buy dips on the commodity currency. AUD/NZD is a notable exception as the pair eases from year highs in recent sessions. Overall the AUD/USD traded with a low of 1.0150 and a high of 1.0255 before closing the US session at 1.0180.
Oil & Gold (XAU) was strong the whole day up $15 an ounce. Overall trading with a low of USD$1405 and high of USD $1420 before ending the New York session at USD$1418 an ounce. Oil led the market higher up nearly $2 a barrel. WTI Oil Closed +$1.90 at $91.40 a barrel.
