Credit: Shutterstock photoThere are several important manufacturing reports on today's agenda.
The HSBC/Markit purchasing managers indexes were announced for China late last night, followed by Europe's report this morning. Both could affect sentiment early in the session.
The big U.S. data release comes at 10 a.m. ET, when the Institute for Supply Management publishes its monthly index. Economists anticipate a reading of 54, up from 53.2 in the previous month. A strong number would likely push stock prices higher.
Construction spending for February, scheduled for the same time, is expected to show growth of 0.1 percent. It will probably have little effect on trading.
Apollo Group reports earnings after the closing bell, and auto makers will release monthly sales data.
Tomorrow's calendar is more active, featuring European gross domestic product, ADP's private-sector payrolls report, Monsanto's quarterly results, and weekly crude-oil inventories.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
