As expected, we are looking at a positive opening. Better than expected CPI adds fuel.

Futures looking to a strong opening, gold flat, oil up a buck, dollar weaker. Waiting for Fed rate cut this afternoon.

What does it say about the consumers that Macy’s will open twenty-four hours and Jos. A Bank offers 50% discounts ten days before Christmas? What will their after-Christmas discounts be?

Best Buy announced better than expected earnings against sharply reduced expectations. And it is offering separation agreements to all of its corporate staff. “We view our employees as the primary strength of this organization,” added Anderson. “However, based on the recent changes we’ve seen in consumer behavior and the potential for worsening consumer spending, we need to prepare our organization to operate in a wide range of potential macro economic scenarios in the coming year.” Who will run the company?

Goldman Sachs shares being bid up for loosing only $5/share in the quarter.

Not sure the early market strength will hold. Probably will not play until after the Fed report at 2:15pm.