Weekly Newsletter September 23rd - September 29th

Current Events: The controversial decision made by the Federal Open Market Committee on September 13th to begin an open-ended program of monthly purchases of $40 billion in mortgage-backed securities has witnessed its ups and downs since its announcement. While substantial gains were witnessed upon announcement, some question if the recent slide is a sign of what is to come.

What to Look for This Week

A slew of housing data coupled with earnings reports from popular names, such as Nike and Carnival Cruise Lines, will keep traders and investors focused on U.S. matters this week. Key data on the health of the U.S. consumer will also provide insight on the overall economy.

News Affecting the Markets

Not all have received the recent decisions of central banks around the world to pursue quantitative easing favorably. This week UBS chairman, Alex Weber, spoke out negatively on such moves, going as far as to say central bank action to support economies by printing money is distorting market prices and may create asset bubbles. While the U.S. Fed's decision to go ahead with QE3 immediately sparked massive gains across all major indexes, many question if such a drastic move is warranted, authentic, and sustainable.

Smart Investing

Riding the ETF Boom: Advisors and specialized investors are motivating the growth of exchange traded funds (ETFs), one of the newest investment tools. The investment community has described exchange traded funds (EFTs) as the most successful financial product in the past two decades, and the gap between unlisted managed funds and listed ETFs will undoubtedly narrow in coming years. Product innovation, a desire for more transparent, low-cost products, and greater use of ETFs by financial advisers is driving growth. With global ETFs assets topping $1 trillion (US) for the first time, it's clear that investor interest in exchange traded funds is swelling. Global ETF assets have continued to grow despite the financial crisis and subsequent rally. Experts say there are no signs that investor interest in ETFs is fading and that investors are finding ETFs are products that work well in every market environment.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: Lennar Corp (LEN), Red Hat Inc (RHT) {after the close}
Tuesday: Carnival Corp (CCL), Jabil Circuit Inc (JBL) {after the close}
Wednesday: Worthington Industries Inc (WOR) {after the close}
Thursday: Accenture PLC (ACN), Discover Financial Services (DFS), Global Payments Inc (GPN) {after the close}, McCormick & Company Inc (MKC), Micron Technology Inc (MU), Nike Inc (NKE) {after the close},
Friday: No major announcements.
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No scheduled announcements.
Tuesday
Case-Shiller 20-city Index @ 9:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.8% to 1.5%, Actual = 1.2%)
Consumer Confidence @ 10:00 AM for September (Est. = 62.0 to 63.0, Actual = 70.3)
FHFA Housing Price Index @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = n/a, Actual = 0.2%)
Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 09/22 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -0.2%)
New Home Sales @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 380K to 390K, Prior = 372K)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 09/22 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 8.534M)
Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/22 (Est. = 379K to 380K, Prior = 382K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/15 (Est. = 3270K to 3300K, Prior = 3272K)
Durable Orders @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = -5.0% to -6.5%, Prior = 4.1%)
Pending Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 0.5% to 2.05, Prior = 2.4%)
Friday
Personal Income @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.1% to 0.2%, Prior = 0.3%)
Personal Spending @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.5% to 0.6%, Prior = 0.4%)
Chicago PMI @ 9:45 AM for September (Est. = 52.0 to 52.9, Prior = 53.0)
Michigan Sentiment @ 9:55 AM for September (Est. = 79.0, Prior = 79.2)

Weekly Newsletter September 16th - September 22nd

Current Events: 52-week highs in both the Dow Jones Industrial and S&P 500 can be credited to the decision made on late Thursday by the Federal Reserve to commence a third round of quantitative easing. The announcement of the Fed's plan to buy $40 billion worth of mortgage-backed securities per month quickly triggered a sharp rally in the U.S. markets.

 

What to Look for This Week

The most important numbers to be released this week for investors will certainly be involving housing data, especially considering the lack of earnings and economic announcements scheduled. Statistics from the NAHB Housing Market Index and Housing Starts reports will help investors evaluate the health status of the slowly rebuilding U.S. housing market.

News Affecting the Markets

Last week, in an effort to provide much needed reassurance and support to onlookers concerning the euro zone debt crisis, the European Central Bank pledged to provide unlimited funds to rein in the debt crisis via its own bond-buying program. However, assistance cannot be extended unless a country asks for help. This is something that Spain has neglected to do till date.

Smart Investing

Fear Can Lead to Poor Retirement Choices: When considering retirement it is important to reflect on what changes need to occur to move from where you are now to where you'd like to be in 10 years. Will keeping your current jobs get you where you want to be? Will starting a business help you succeed? What do you need to do to get to where you want to be and reach all your goals, personally and financially? Many boomers have a lot of fears about retirement. Determine what your fears are. The stock market has played havoc on many boomers' retirement nest eggs. Cutbacks on savings plans at work, as well as having to contribute more to healthcare costs, less pay raises and even pay cuts have created fears about having enough money to retire. Some say we can't even truly rely on social security anymore as national debt concerns rise. Fear of not enough money can cause problems with your life today, as well as create a lot of fear based choices that might not be the best for you or your family. Pay off debt before retirement. Zero debt working on a cash basis should be your goal for retirement days.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: No major announcements.
Tuesday: No major announcements.
Wednesday: No major announcements.
Thursday: No major announcements.
Friday: No major announcements.
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
Empire Manufacturing @ 8:30 AM for September (Est. = -3.0, Prior = -5.9)
Tuesday
NAHB Housing Market Index @ 10:00 AM for September (Est. = 38, Actual = 37)
Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 09/15 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 11.1%)
Housing Starts @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.0% to 0.3%, Prior = -0.2%)
Building Permits @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.0% to 0.3%, Prior = -0.2%)
Existing Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 0.0% to 0.3%, Prior = -0.2%)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 09/15 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 1.994M)
Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/15 (Est. = 375K, Prior = 382K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/08 (Est. = 3292K to 3300K, Prior = 3283K)
Philadelphia Fed @ 10:00 AM for September (Est. = -5.0, Prior = -7.1)
Leading Indicators @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 0.0%, Prior = 0.4%)
Friday
No scheduled announcements.

Weekly Newsletter September 9th - September 15th

Current Events: Credit a very strong Thursday for last week's big gains in all major U.S. equity indexes, including the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P. Gold, which has shown some signs of life over the last two months, also had a very strong week in the markets.

What to Look for This Week

All eyes will be on the Fed this week as the U.S. and the world a wait to see if QE3 will take place. Another round of quantitative easing is being heavily debated as many investors worry such drastic measures may hurt the overall health of the U.S. more than it will benefit from the move. While serious discussions will take place this week on the hot topic, it is unlikely that Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will give the go ahead on QE3 this week.

 News Affecting the Markets

 Lackluster August jobs data surprisingly fueled the markets last week as speculation grew that the Federal Reserve may start another round of monetary stimulus. This stir in the markets helped U.S. equities finish modestly higher Friday, following Thursday's massive surge. Such speculation, coupled with relatively favorable progress being made within euro zone, has boosted major indexes to their highest levels in years.

Smart Investing

 Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPS):  Dividend Reinvestment Plans (also known as DRIPS) are investment plans that allow individuals to reinvest dividends and to use dividends to buy more stocks without paying brokerage commissions. Some Dividend Reinvestment Plans allow purchasing additional stocks, also without paying brokerage commissions. Usually Dividend Reinvestment Plans don't charge commissions. On the other hand the company might give you a discount of 2-5%. To sign in to the Dividend Reinvestment Plans you should already have at least one share of the company on your name. Some companies request owning a minimal number of shares in order to sign in to their Dividend Reinvestment Plan. Therefore, you must use a broker to buy the first shares, or buy them directly from the company. Note that not all companies allow direct purchasing. Usually a company that allows direct purchase allows Dividend Reinvestment Plans.

Earnings for the Week

 Monday: No major announcements.

Tuesday: No major announcements.

Wednesday: No major announcements.

 Thursday: No major announcements.

Friday: No major announcements.
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday

Consumer Credit @ 3:00 PM for July (Est. = $8.0b to $10.0B, Prior = $6.5B)

Tuesday

Trade Balance @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = -$44.0B to $-46.0B, Actual = -$42.9B)

 Wednesday

MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 09/08 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -2.5%)
Wholesale Inventories @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.0% to 0.3%, Prior = -0.2%)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 09/08 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -7.426M)

 Thursday

Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/08 (Est. = 369K to 370K, Prior = 365K)

Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/01 (Est. = 3315K to 3300K, Prior = 3322K)

PPI @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 1.2%, Prior = 0.3%)

FOMC Rate Decision @ 12:30 PM for September (Est. = 0.25%, Prior = 0.25%)

 Friday

Retail Sales @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.7% to 1.0%, Prior = 0.8%)
CPI @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 0.6%, Prior = 0.0%)
Industrial Production @ 9:15 AM for August (Est. = 0.2% to 0.3%, Prior = 0.6%)
Capacity Utilization @ 9:15 AM for August (Est. = 78.9% to 79.2.%, Prior = 79.3%)
Michigan Sentiment @ 9:55 AM for September (Est. = 73.0 to 73.3, Prior = 74.3)
Business Inventories @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.2% to 0.4%, Prior = 0.1%)

Weekly Newsletter September 2nd - September 8th

Current Events: A choppy and somewhat stagnant market attempts to hold on to gains experienced earlier in the year, even following a poor August showing in both performance and volume. With U.S. elections just around the corner, decisive help may not come soon enough as uncertainty appears to reign supreme, at least for the time being.

What to Look for This Week

Key data on the health of the U.S. job market set to be released early Friday morning will greatly impact U.S. markets, with for investors undoubtedly focusing in on the unemployment rate. While the unemployment rate has be stuck at 8.3% for some time now, some analysts are forecasting a slight improvement in this week's report.

News Affecting the Markets

A two-week high for the NYSE composite in terms of volume is a glimmer of hope for eager investors looking to jump back into the relatively lackluster U.S. markets. Tuesday, September 4th marked the largest volume trading day for the exchange since August 21st with 3.06 billion shares traded on the day. While the average daily volume for the year has been roughly 3.63 billion shares a day, the up-tick in volume is certainly hungry investors can hang their hats on as a sign of progress. The Nasdaq also experienced its largest volume day on Tuesday since August 21st, as well, reaching 1.49 billion shares on the day.

Smart Investing

The World of Investing: Governments do it. Companies do it. Fund managers do it. Millions of ordinary working people, from business owners to factory workers, do it. Housewives do it. Even farmers and children do it. 'It' here is investing: the science and art of creating, protecting and enhancing your wealth in the financial markets. Getting involved with investing can seem challenging, confusing, and very risky to someone looking from the outside in. In fact, to some actually involved with investing it too seems that way. However, the process and methodology of investing can be quite manageable and practical if taken step by step. Two key things that must be considered prior to beginning the process of investing are goals and resources. First it is important to determine what is the ultimate goal; is to gain security, income, wealth, or a combination of the before-mentioned. The second is to determine what amount is truly disposable income, what amount is desired, and what amount is needed to survive. Often individuals fail to decide on these and unclear, unrealistic expectations lead them into avoidable mistakes. Thus, map out what your goals are for investing and how much financial backing you have to accomplish these goals prior to jumping into the world of investing.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: No major announcements.

Tuesday: Campbell Soup Co (CPB), Pep Boys-Manny Moe and Jack (PBY) {After the Close}, Smithfield Foods Inc (SFD)

Wednesday: Dollar General Corp (DG), H & R Block Inc (HRB) {After the Close}, Men's Wearhouse Inc (MW) {After the Close}, VeriFone Systems Inc (PAY) {After the Close}

Thursday: Hovnanian Enterprises Inc (HOV), Navistar International Corp (NAV), Quiksilver Inc (ZQK) {After the Close}, Smith & Wesson Holding Corp (SWHC) {After the Close}, Ulta Salon Cosmetics and Fragrance Inc (ULTA) {After the Close}

Friday: Kroger Co (KR)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
ISM Index @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 49.0 to 50.0, Actual = 49.6)
Construction Spending @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.5%, Actual = -0.9%)
Auto Sales @ 2:00 PM for August (Est. = n/a, Prior = 5.0M)
Truck Sales @ 2:00 PM for August (Est. = n/a, Prior = 6.0M)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 09/01 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -4.3%)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 09/01 (Est. = 373K to 375K, Prior = 374K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/25 (Est. = 3300K, Prior = 3316K)
ISM Services @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 51.0 to 52.4 Prior = 52.6)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 11:00 AM for 09/01 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 3.778M)

Friday
Unemployment Rate @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 8.2% to 8.3%, Prior = 8.3%)

Weekly Newsletter August 26th - September 1st

Current Events: The battle for the White House has become a growing factor in the market. With little news coming from earnings, economic data, or abroad, many investors will look to U.S. politics to gauge the current health of the economy.

What to Look for This Week

For the 10th day this month, NYSE volume has come in below 3 billion shares traded for the day. The last time such an occurrence was recorded in the NYSE was September 2007. At this pace, this month will be the lowest volume of the year.

News Affecting the Markets

With Hurricane Isaac hitting Louisiana today as a category 1 hurricane oil futures are quickly rising. The spike is undoubtedly tied to concerns that the hurricane is affecting oil production out of the Gulf of Mexico.

Smart Investing

Control Credit Cards before Investing: Any profitable trader or investor knows that you must only use disposable income when aggressively participating in the markets. However, for some it's not that easy as credit card debt has eliminated such options. For this reason it is clear that if you want to get ahead financially you want to use credit cards and not let credit cards use you. Of course, as mentioned, this is easier said than done. Try to only spend money that you have. If you struggle with spending control, keep your credit limit low. Utilize only relevant credit card rewards and pay off your balance every single month. Do not let your balance become outstanding as this compiles quickly. If credit card debt is a struggle even after wise adjustments, be weary of seeking financial resolve from participating aggressively in the markets as buy and sell decisions can be clouded.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: Perfect World Co Ltd (PWRD) {After the Close}, PVH Corp (PVH), Seadrill Ltd (SDRL), Tiffany & Co (TIF)

Tuesday: Brown Shoe Co Inc (BWS)

Wednesday: Collective Brands Inc (PSS), H.J. Heinz Co (HNZ), JA Solar Holdings Co Ltd (JASO), Joy Global Inc (JOY), Pandora Media Inc (P) {After the Close}, Vera Bradley Inc (VRA) {After the Close}

Thursday: Ciena Corp (CIEN)

Friday: Rosetta Genomics Ltd (ROSG)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
Case Shiller 20-city Index @ 9:00 AM for June (Est. = -0.3%, Actual = 0.5%)
Consumer Confidence @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 65.7 to 66.5, Actual = 60.6)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 08/25 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -7.4%)
Pending Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.0%, Prior = -1.4%)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 08/25 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -5.412M)
Fed Beige Book @ 2:00 PM for August

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/25 (Est. = 370K, Prior = 372K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/18 (Est. = 3300K, Prior = 3317K)

Friday
Chicago PMI @ 9:45 AM for August (Est. = 53.0 to 53.8, Prior = 53.7)
Michigan Sentiment @ 9:55 AM for August (Est. = 73.6 to 74.0, Prior = 73.6)
Factory Orders @ 10:00 AM for July 8 (Est. = 2.0% to 2.1%, Prior = -0.5%)

Current Events: A very strong week across all major U.S. indexes has each within striking distance of new year-to-date highs. The lack in data from an earnings and economic standpoint this week may leave the market without enough fuel to break through obvious resistance that will be waiting at index highs. Moreover, with a big five day surge in oil prices last week, concerns over rising gas prices affecting consumers may soon weigh on investor's minds.

What to Look for This Week

With this clearly being the a very quiet week of the year thus far in regards to earnings announcements, investors will look elsewhere for signs of strength and stability in the U.S. and global economy. However, barring the housing data, few signals will come from economic reports as this week is a relatively light one for such scheduled data announcements. Thus, most investors will look abroad and play close attention for key updates on the euro-zone crisis.

News Affecting the Markets

A report released on Sunday by a German magazine outlines a radical new plan that the European Central Bank is considering. This controversial plan would cap borrowing costs for struggling euro-zone governments by buying unlimited amounts of bonds. Such a move would mark an aggressive and drastic turn by the central bank in an effort to bring down borrowing costs for Spain and Italy. Designed to prevent borrowing costs from climbing to unsustainable levels and ensuring that the spread between peripheral and core yields does not grow too wide, this plan would see the ECB step in to buy bonds when the spread between yields on distressed government bonds moved above a certain, unspecified level versus German government debt.

Smart Investing

Set Investment Goals:  The fact is setting goals is not just about achieving success, but experiencing an enriching journey while on the process of acquiring your goal. There is so much to be had when you have set your goals in life. One of which is achieving self-development. Setting goals is a sign of maturity in a person. Clear cut intent will help develop motivation and forces you to practice some of the important values in life like determination, perseverance and discipline. Setting a goal will also give you a clear road map on which direction and will enhance your self-esteem as you know what you want to achieve and how to get there. People who lack goals in life have no clear cut directions and are just relying on fate and luck to lead their life. Even though there is no guarantee that you will achieve every goal, what matters most is the growing process that you will experience even as making that journey that will enable you to take on similar or even better opportunities. Thus, whether dealing with investments, or life as a whole, it is essential to set clear and realistic goals for yourself in order to achieve success.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: No earnings announcements

Tuesday: No earnings announcements

Wednesday: No earnings announcements

Thursday: No earnings announcements

Friday: No earnings announcements
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

 Economic Data this Week

Monday

No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday

FOMC Minutes @ 2:00 PM for 7/31

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 08/18 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -4.5%)
Existing Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 4.30M to 4.55M, Prior = 4.37M)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 08/18 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -3.699M)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/18 (Est. = 365K, Prior = 366K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/11 (Est. = 3298K to 3300K, Prior = 3305K)
FHFA Housing Price Index @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = n/a, Prior = 0.8%)
New Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 368K to 375K, Prior = 35K0)

Friday

Durable Orders @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 2.5% to 3.5%, Prior = 1.3%)

Weekly Newsletter August 12th - August 18th

Current Events: Last week proved to be a very choppy week in the financial markets as investors seemed uncertain on the long-term direction and stability of the U.S. and global economy.

What to Look for This Week

The plethora of retail giants announcing earnings this week indicates that the end of the summer earnings season is fast approaching. Popular retailers, Wal-Mart, Target, Gap, and Saks are just a few of the household names which will release highly anticipated earnings this week.

News Affecting the Markets

Groupon, whose shares have already plunged nearly 70% over the last six months, took a further tumble after its release of its second quarter earnings following the closing bell Monday. While better-than-expected profits were announced, a gloomy third quarter forecast has set the stock on track to hit a record new low on Tuesday.

Smart Investing

Structured Settlements: Typically paid out in response to personal injury claim, a structured settlement is a series of relatively small, periodic payments meant as a steadier alternative to the lump sum for one who doesn’t want all of their eggs in one basket. However, this is not meant to imply that structured settlements are only given to injured unfortunates, as lottery winners who choose to gradate their winnings into a series of weekly or monthly payments, for example, are also owners of structured settlement agreements. Structured settlements are not ‘better’ or ‘worse’ than other formats of payment; they, like any other payment plan, meet the need of a specific demographic of people. If you are currently in the process of receiving some money and have the opportunity to decide upon how it will be distributed to you, then give structured settlements the consideration they rightfully deserve. They are equally capable of making a good situation better and compensating for harm wrongfully done to one’s physical or mental well being.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: Groupon Inc (GRPN) {After the close}, Sysco Corp (SYY)

Tuesday: Dick's Sporting Goods Inc (DKS), Estee Lauder Companies Inc (EL), Home Depot Inc (HD), Michael Kors Holdings Ltd (KORS), Nationstar Mortgage Holdings Inc (NSM), Saks Inc (SKS), The Valspar Corp (VAL), TJX Companies Inc (TJX)

Wednesday: Abercrombie & Fitch Co (ANF), Agilent Technologies Inc (A) {After the close}, Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO) {After the close}, Deere & Co (DE), Limited Brands Inc (LTD) {After the close}, NetApp Inc (NTAP) {After the close}, PetSmart Inc (PETM) {After the close}, Target Corp (TGT), VimpelCom Ltd (VIP)

Thursday: Aeropostale Inc (ARO) {After the close}, Brocade Communications Systems Inc (BRCD) {After the close}, GameStop Corp (GME), Gap Inc (GPS) {After the close}, Wal-Mart Stores Inc (WMT)

Friday: ANN INC (ANN), Foot Locker Inc (FL)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
Retail Sales @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 0.0% to 0.2%, Prior = -0.5%)
PPI @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 0.2%, Prior = 0.1%)
Business Inventories @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 0.2%, Prior = 0.3%)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 08/11 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -1.8%)
CPI @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 0.2%, Prior = 0.0%)
Empire Manufacturing @ 8:30 AM for August (Est. = 5.0, Prior = 7.4)
Industrial Production @ 9:15 AM for July (Est. = 0.6% to 1.0%, Prior = 0.4%)
Capacity Utilization @ 9:15 AM for July (Est. = 79.3% to 79.4%, Prior = 78.9%)
NAHB Housing Market Index @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = 35, Prior = 35)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 08/11 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -3.729M)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/11 (Est. = 365K to 368K, Prior = 361K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/04 (Est. = 3300K, Prior = 3332K)
Housing Starts @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 763K to 770K, Prior = 760K)
Building Permits @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 750K to 770K, Prior = 755K)
Philadelphia Fed @ 10:00 AM for August (Est. = -5.0%, Prior = -12.9%)

Friday
Michigan Sentiment @ 9:55 AM for August (Est. = 71.0 to 72.2, Prior = 72.3)
Leading Indicators @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 0.2%, Prior = -0.3%)

Weekly Newsletter August 5th - August 11th

Current Events: For the second straight week the U.S. markets finished the week strong. Friday's massive surge was enough to reverse a minor down-trending week with the release of somewhat favorable economic data on the health of the job market.

What to Look for This Week

While only a few blue chips are scheduled to announce this week, earnings are likely to take center stage as few economic reports are to be released this week. Household favorites such as Walt Disney and MGM are scheduled to report this week, along with popular retail giants J C Penny's, Macy's and Nordstrom.

News Affecting the Markets

On Monday, the U.S. stock markets (including the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500) successfully closed at their highest point in three months. This is in large part due to better-than-anticipated corporate earnings and a recent diminishing concern about Europe’s debt troubles.

Smart Investing

Most Common Way Your 401k Leaks Money: Picking the right funds for your retirement account is vital, but so is understanding how to take full advantage of your savings. Make sure to avoid the common costly mistakes to ensure your 401k stays healthy and prosperous. For starters, pay attention to detail. Awareness of the fees and logistics of your 401k or IRA plan can be just as important as picking the right places to put your money. Investors who don't read the fine print or perform regular portfolio maintenance can see their retirement accounts suffer, even if they have the right funds picked out. The most obvious charges that 401k investors have to endure are the "expense ratios" of their mutual funds. You might have seen these on your portfolio documents and just shrugged them off. After all, what's the big deal about a 1% fee? However, little fees add up fast. In real terms, that 1% fee gets shaved off your 401k account each year. In 30 years, those small fees can end up costing you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Thus, be cognoscente of the health of your 401k, it will greatly benefit you in the long run.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: AES Corp (AES), Boston Properties Inc (BXP) {After the close}, Brookdale Senior Living Inc (BKD) {After the close}, CF Industries Holdings Inc (CF) {After the close}, Chesapeake Energy Corp (CHK) {After the close}, Cinemark Holdings Inc (CNK), Concho Resources Inc (CXO) {After the close}, Dillard's Inc (DDS), Goodrich Petroleum Corp (GDP) {After the close}, HCA Holdings Inc (HCA), Health Care REIT Inc (HCN), Manitowoc Co Inc (MTW) {After the close}, McDermott International Inc (MDR) {After the close}, Mindray Medical International Ltd (MR) {After the close}, Rosetta Genomics Ltd (ROSG), Strategic Hotels and Resorts Inc (BEE) {After the close}, Titanium Metals Corp (TIE), Tyson Foods Inc (TSN), Vornado Realty Trust (VNO) {After the close}, WMS Industries Inc (WMS) {After the close}

Tuesday: AECOM Technology Corp (ACM), Cablevision Systems Corp (CVC), Coeur d'Alene Mines Corp (CDE), CVS Caremark Corp (CVS), Emerson Electric Co (EMR), Energy Transfer Partners LP (ETP) {After the close}, Firstenergy Corp (FE), Fossil Inc (FOSL), Hecla Mining Co (HL), Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc (MMC), MGM Resorts International (MGM), Office Depot Inc (ODP), Pepco Holdings Inc (POM), PG&E Corp (PCG), Quicksilver Resources Inc (KWK), Rackspace Hosting Inc (RAX) {After the close}, Rosetta Resources Inc (ROSE) {After the close}, Sirius XM Radio Inc (SIRI), Sotheby's (BID), Tenet Healthcare Corp (THC), Walt Disney Co (DIS) {After the close}, XL Group PLC (XL) Zillow Inc (Z)

Wednesday: Accretive Health Inc (AH), Alpha Natural Resources Inc (ANR), Avnet Inc (AVT), BrightPoint Inc (CELL) {After the close}, CenturyLink Inc (CTL) {After the close}, Cincinnati Bell Inc (CBB), Computer Sciences Corp (CSC), Continental Resources Inc (CLR) {After the close}, Corrections Corp Of America (CXW) {After the close}, Dean Foods Co (DF), Macy's Inc (M), MBIA Inc (MBI) {After the close}, Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp (MRX), NRG Energy Inc (NRG), PPL Corp (PPL), Ralph Lauren Corp (RL), Stillwater Mining Co (SWC), SunPower Corp (SPWR) {After the close}

Thursday: Advance Auto Parts Inc (AAP), Assured Guaranty Ltd (AGO) {After the close}, Brinker International Inc (EAT), CareFusion Corp (CFN) {After the close}, DeVry Inc (DV) {After the close}, Emulex Corp (ELX) {After the close}, GenOn Energy Inc (GEN), Kohl's Corp (KSS), Kronos Worldwide Inc (KRO), Magnum Hunter Resources Corp (MHR), Medical Properties Trust Inc (MPW), Nordstrom Inc (JWN) {After the close}, Northern Oil and Gas Inc (NOG), NVIDIA Corp (NVDA) {After the close}, The Wendy's Co (WEN), Windstream Corp (WIN)

Friday: Energy Transfer Equity LP (ETE), Harman International Industries Inc (HAR), J C Penney Company Inc (JCP), VirnetX Holding Corp (VHC)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
Consumer Credit @ 3:00 PM for June (Est. = $10.0B, Prior = $17.1B)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 08/04 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 0.2%)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 08/04 (Est. = n/a, Prior = -6.522M)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 08/04 (Est. = 375K to 385K, Prior = 365K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 07/28 (Est. = 3290K to 3300K, Prior = 3272K)
Trade Balance @ 8:30 AM for June (Est. = -$47.5B to -$48.0B, Prior = -$48.7B)
Wholesale Inventories @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 0.3% to 0.6%, Prior = 0.3%)

Friday
Treasury Budget @ 2:00 PM for July (Est. = n/a, Prior = -$129.4B)

Weekly Newsletter July 29th - August 4th

Current Events: The gains experienced across the major U.S. indexes on Thursday and Friday were enough to finish the week on a high note. Moreover, with these recent gains further confirmation that the prevailing two-month choppy upward trend continues, rebutting the large slide witnessed throughout May. However, a slow-to-recover U.S. economy likely means the nation’s unemployment rate will remain idle around a lackluster 8%, reducing the likelihood of an economic recovery before the end of the year, especially with the ongoing debt crisis occurring overseas.

What to Look for This Week

Earnings reports will take a backseat this week as investors will focus on the heavy dose of key economic reports, including data on the unemployment rate, the Fed rate, consumer spending, and consumer confidence.

News Affecting the Markets

The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment report released on Friday came in at the lowest point of the year. The report stated that while consumers are seeing relief at the pump, there’s now concern about food prices. The index, which is not seasonally adjusted, has not been above 80 since the recession. It was as high as 96.9 in July 2007.

Smart Investing

Choosing the Right Retirement Plan: Having a retirement plan in place is essential to your future financial well-being. Choosing the right retirement plan and the right investment choices will insure your retirement will be all that you hope it will be. Whether you have a 401(k), a traditional IRA, a Roth IRA or a combination of plans, investing now for retirement is smart move. A 401(k) plan is a great way to prepare for retirement through your current employer. However, for self-employed individuals and those seeking additional plans traditional IRA and Roth IRA plans are needed. Depending on when you wish to pay taxes on your investments will determine which you will setup.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: Alere Inc (ALR), Anadarko Petroleum Corp (APC) {After the close}, Arrow Electronics Inc (ARW), CapitalSource Inc (CSE) {After the close}, CubeSmart (CUBE), Eastman Chemical Co (EMN) {After the close}, Extra Space Storage Inc (EXR) {After the close}, Forest Oil Corp (FST) {After the close}, Franklin Resources Inc (BEN), HCA Holdings Inc (HCA), Herbalife Ltd (HLF) {After the close}, Hertz Global Holdings Inc (HTZ) {After the close}, Hologic Inc (HOLX) {After the close}, Ion Geophysical Corp (IO), Jacobs Engineering Group Inc (JEC) {After the close}, Leucadia National Corp (LUK), Loews Corp (L), Masco Corp (MAS) {After the close}, Northeast Utilities (NU) {After the close}, Plum Creek Timber Company Inc (PCL) {After the close}, Rosetta Genomics Ltd (ROSG), Seagate Technology PLC (STX) {After the close}, StemCells Inc (STEM), Superior Energy Services Inc (SPN) {After the close}, Tim Participacoes SA (TSU) {After the close}, UDR Inc (UDR), Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (VRTX) {After the close}, W&T Offshore Inc (WTI) {After the close}

Tuesday: A123 Systems Inc (AONE), Aetna Inc (AET), Allstate Corp (ALL) {After the close}, Archer Daniels Midland co (ADM), Axis Capital Holdings Ltd (AXS) {After the close}, BMC Software Inc (BMC) {After the close}, BrightPoint Inc (CELL), CBRE Group Inc (CBG) {After the close}, Coach Inc (COH), Con-way Inc (CNW) {After the close}, Cummins Inc (CMI), DDR Corp (DDR) {After the close}, DDR Corp (XRAY), Ecolab Inc (ECL), Edison International (EIX) {After the close}, Electronic Arts Inc (EA) {After the close}, Entergy Corp (ETR), EXCO Resources Inc (XCO) {After the close}, FMC Corp (FMC), Frontier Communications Corp (FTR) {After the close}, Genworth Financial Inc (GNW) {After the close}, Harris Corp (HRS), HCP Inc (HCP), Kimco Realty Corp (KIM) {After the close}, Life Technologies Corp (LIFE) {After the close}, Louisiana Pacific Corp (LPX), ONEOK Inc (OKE) {After the close}, Pfizer Inc (PFE), Pioneer Natural Resources Co (PXD) {After the close}, Pioneer Southwest Energy Partners LP (PSE) {After the close}, Polypore International Inc (PPO) {After the close}, Public Service Enterprise Group Inc (PEG), Quantum Corp (QTM) {After the close}, Revlon Inc (REV), Silicon Image Inc (SIMG) {After the close}, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co (GT),TRW Automotive Holdings Corp (TRW), Tyco International Ltd (TYC), United States Steel Corp (X), USEC Inc (USU) {After the close}, Valero Energy Corp (VLO), Vishay Intertechnology Inc (VSH), Wabash National Corp (WNC) {After the close}

Wednesday: Allergan Inc (AGN), Amdocs Ltd (DOX) {After the close}, American Tower Corp (AMT), Amerigroup Corp (AGP), Automatic Data Processing Inc (ADP), Avis Budget Group Inc (CAR) {After the close}, Avon Products Inc (AVP), BioMed Realty Trust Inc (BMR) {After the close}, Burger King Worldwide Inc (BKW), Cal Dive International Inc (DVR) {After the close}, Cavium Inc (CAVM) {After the close}, Consolidated Edison Inc (ED), DaVita Inc (DVA) {After the close}, Devon Energy Corp (DVN), Dominion Resources Inc (D), Enterprise Products Partners LP (EPD), Exelon Corp (EXC), General Growth Properties Inc (GGP) {After the close}, Georgia Gulf Corp (GGC) {After the close}, Harley-Davidson Inc (HOG), Hospira Inc (HSP), Huntsman Corp (HUN), IntercontinentalExchange Inc (ICE), Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc (IVR) {After the close}, LeapFrog Enterprises Inc (LF) {After the close}, Lincoln National Corp (LNC) {After the close}, Macerich Co (MAC), Marathon Oil Corp (MRO), MasterCard Inc (MA), Metlife Inc (MET) {After the close}, Murphy Oil Corp (MUR) {After the close}, Onyx Pharmaceuticals Inc (ONXX) {After the close}, Owens Corning (OC), Penn Virginia Corp (PVA) {After the close}, Phillips 66 (PSX), Piedmont Office Realty Trust Inc (PDM) {After the close}, Prudential Financial Inc (PRU) {After the close}, R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co (RRD), Radian Group Inc (RDN), Rockwood Holdings Inc (ROC), ServiceNow Inc (NOW) {After the close}, SM Energy Co (SM) {After the close}, Stone Energy Corp (SGY) {After the close}, Tesoro Corp (TSO) {After the close}, The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc (HIG) {After the close}, Time Warner Inc (TWX), Transocean Ltd (RIG) {After the close}, Two Harbors Investment Corp (TWO) {After the close}, Unum Group (UNM) {After the close}, Vonage Holdings Corp (VG), Walter Energy Inc (WLT) {After the close}, Weight Watchers International Inc (WTW) {After the close}, Williams Companies Inc (WMB) {After the close}, Willis Group Holdings PLC (WSH) {After the close}, Wisconsin Energy Corp (WEC)

Thursday: Activision Blizzard Inc (ATVI) {After the close}, Ameren Corp (AEE), American International Group Inc (AIG) {After the close}, Apache Corp (APA), Apartment Investment and Management Co (AIV) {After the close}, ARIAD Pharmaceuticals Inc (ARIA), AuthenTec Inc (AUTH) {After the close}, Beam Inc (BEAM), Becton Dickinson and Co (BDX), Bill Barrett Corp (BBG), Body Central Corp (BPDY) {After the close}, Boise Inc (BZ), Cardinal Health Inc (CAH), CBS Corp (CBS) {After the close}, CenterPoint Energy Inc (CNP), Cigna Corp (CI), Cimarex Energy Co (XEC), DCT Industrial Trust Inc (DCT) {After the close}, Denbury Resources Inc (DNR), DIRECTV (DTV), Dolby Laboratories Inc (DLB), Duke Energy Corp (DUK), Exterran Holdings Inc (EXH), Fluor Corp (FLR) {After the close}, General Motors Co (GM), Halcon Resources Corp (HK), Kellogg Co (K), Kodiak Oil & Gas Corp (KOG) {After the close}, Kraft Foods Inc (KFT) {After the close}, Lear Corp (LEA), Lender Processing Services Inc (LPS) {After the close}, MasTec Inc (MTZ) {After the close}, MDU Resources Group Inc (MDU), MFA Financial Inc (MFA), MGIC Investment Corp (MTG), Molycorp Inc (MCP) {After the close}, Monster Worldwide Inc (MWW), National Retail Properties Inc (NNN), NorthStar Realty Finance Corp (NRF), Och-Ziff Capital Management Group LLC (OZM), Ocwen Financial Corp (OCN), OfficeMax Inc (OMX), OpenTable Inc (OPEN) {After the close}, Orient-Express Hotels Ltd (OEH) {After the close}, Parker Hannifin Corp (PH), PerkinElmer Inc (PKI) {After the close}, PetroQuest Energy Inc (PQ), Pinnacle West Capital Corp (PNW), Pitney Bowes Inc (PBI) {After the close}, Plains Exploration & Production Co (PXP), Progressive Corp (PGR), Quanta Services Inc (PWR), ResMed Inc (RMD) {After the close}, Rowan Companies PLC (RDC), Sally Beauty Holdings Inc (SBH), SandRidge Energy Inc (SD) {After the close}, Scripps Networks Interactive Inc (SNI), Sealed Air Corp (SEE), Sempra Energy (SRE), Southwestern Energy Co (SWN) {After the close}, Spectra Energy Corp (SE), Sunoco Inc (SUN) {After the close}, Sunstone Hotel Investors Inc (SHO) {After the close}, Swift Energy Co (SFY), TECO Energy Inc (TE), Teradata Corp (TDC), The Clorox Co (CLX), Time Warner Cable Inc (TWC), Titanium Metals Corp (TIE), Ultra Petroleum Corp (UPL), ValueClick Inc (VCLK) {After the close}, Western Refining Inc (WNR), WPX Energy Inc (WPX), Xcel Energy Inc (XEL), Xylem Inc (XYL)

Friday: Beazer Homes USA Inc (BZH), Elster Group SE (ELT), EOG Resources Inc (EOG) {After the close}, Exelis Inc (XLS), Health Net Inc (HNT), ITT Corp (ITT), Merge Healthcare Inc (MRGE), NYSE Euronext (NYX), Procter & Gamble Co (PG), Sotheby's (BID), Viacom Inc (VIAB), Wellcare Health Plans Inc (WCG)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
Personal Income @ 8:30 AM for June (Est. = 0.4% to 0.9%, Prior = 0.2%)
Personal Spending @ 8:30 AM for June (Est. = 0.1%, Prior = 0.0%)
Case-Shiller 20-city Index @ 9:00 AM for May (Est. = -1.8%, Prior = -1.9%)
Chicago PMI @ 9:45 AM for July (Est. = 51.0 to 52.5, Prior = 52.9)
Consumer Confidence @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 61.0, Prior = 62.0)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 07/29 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 0.9%)
ADP Employment Change @ 8:15 AM July (Est. = 125K, Prior = 179K)
ISM Index @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 49.0 to 49.9, Prior = 49.7)
Construction Spending @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 0.5% to 0.7%, Prior = 0.9%)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 07/28 (Est. = n/a, Prior = 2.717M)
Auto Sales @ 2:00 PM for July (Est. = n/a, Prior = 4.9M)
Truck Sales @ 2:00 PM for July (Est. = n/a, Prior = 6.1M)
FOMC Rate Decision @ 2:15 PM for July (Est. = 0.25%, Prior = 0.25%)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 07/28 (Est. = 365K to 385K, Prior = 353K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 07/21 (Est. = 3298K to 3300K, Prior = 3287K)
Factory Orders @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 0.6% to 1.0%, Prior = 0.7%)

Friday
Nonfarm Payrolls @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 85K to 100K, Prior = 80K)
Nonfarm Private Payrolls @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 100K to 105K, Prior = 84K)
Unemployment Rate @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 8.2% to 8.2%, Prior = 8.2%)
Hourly Earnings @ 8:30 AM for July (Est. = 0.1% to 0.2%, Prior = 0.3%)
ISM Services @ 10:00 AM for July (Est. = 52.0 to 52.2, Prior = 52.1)

Weekly Newsletter July 22nd - July 28th

Current Events: Spain and Greece continue to worry investors as both countries debt managing ability is large question. The fear generated from the euro-zone crisis has set off the U.S. markets resulting in a hefty two-day hit. The recent slide has caused the Dow Industrials to slip to its first consecutive triple-digit point loss since April.

What to Look for This Week

Investors will look to the large stream of second-quarter earnings announcements this week for an opportunity admits the on-going saga with the euro-zone. Stocks from a wide variety of sectors are set to report this week, including energy, housing, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Every day names such as Chevron, Apple, Merck, Facebook, Amazon, and 3M will announce.

News Affecting the Markets

On Monday Moody's Investors Service lowered on Germany's triple-A rating from stable to negative. Growing uncertainties from the euro-zone crisis was the main culprit for the lowering. Other European countries were downgraded Monday as well, including the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Moody's stressed the fear of Greece abandoning the euro-zone and the catastrophic impact it would impose subsequently on Spain and Italy. Such a calamity would cause better rated countries, such as Germany, to step in and absorb most of the burden.

Smart Investing

When a Stock Price Declines: There are numerous reasons why a stock's price falls and it is up to you as a stock investor to determine the cause. By identifying why the price is falling, you are far better equipped to decide if it is time to sell your stock position or if the fall in value presents an opportunity to purchase additional shares of a stock. The key is neither to react every time a stock you own dips, nor to become so emotionally attached to an investment; the decision to sell a stock should be similar to the decision to buy a stock. But the price paid for a stock must be put aside when deciding if it is time to sell. Maintaining your objectivity during these times is important to your investing success. Unfortunately, there are no simple, mechanical rules that are effective for when to sell a stock. Nothing substitutes for an understanding of what economic, industry, and firm fundamentals drive your stock's price. By examining the situation rationally and doing your homework to determine if the fundamentals of the company have changed, you are better equipped to determine whether the time has come to sell your stock.

Earnings for the Week

Monday: Assured Guaranty Ltd (AGO), Baidu Inc (BIDU) {After the close}, Celanese Corp (CE) {After the close}, Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc (CCE), Eaton Corp (ETN), Fidelity National Financial Inc (FNF) {After the close}, Halliburton Co (HAL), Hasbro Inc (HAS), Health Management Associates Inc (HMA) {After the close}, Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc (HLX) {After the close}, McDonald's Corp (MCD), Steel Dynamics Inc (STLD) {After the close}, Texas Instruments Inc (TXN) {After the close}, VMware Inc (VMW) {After the close}, Zions Bancorporation (ZION) {After the close}

Tuesday: ACE Limited (ACE) {After the close}, Aflac Inc (AFL) {After the close}, AK Steel Holding Corp (AKS), Altera Corp (ALTR) {After the close}, Altria Group Inc (MO), Apple Inc (AAPL), AT&T Inc (T), Avery Dennison Corp (AVY), Boyd Gaming Corp (BYD), Broadcom Corp (BRCM) {After the close}, Cabot Oil & Gas Corp (COG) {After the close}, Centene Corp (CNC), Chicago Bridge and Iron Company NV (CBI) {After the close}, Compuware Corp (CPWR) {After the close}, Domino's Pizza Inc (DPZ), E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Co (DD), Edwards Lifesciences Corp (EW) {After the close}, EMC Corp (EMC), FMC Technologies Inc (FTI) {After the close}, Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW), International Game Technology (IGT), Juniper Networks Inc (JNPR) {After the close}, Lexmark International Inc (LXK), Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT), Nabors Industries Ltd (NBR) {After the close}, Netflix Inc (NFLX) {After the close}, Newfield Exploration Co (NFX) {After the close}, Norfolk Southern Corp (NSC) {After the close}, Peabody Energy Corp (BTU), Regions Financial Corp (RF), Reynolds American Inc (RAI), Robert Half International Inc (RHI) {After the close}, Rockwell Collins Inc (COL), Ryder System Inc (R), Simon Property Group Inc (SPG), Tempur-Pedic International Inc (TPX) {After the close}, TripAdvisor Inc (TRIP) {After the close}, Under Armour Inc (UA), United Parcel Service Inc (UPS), Waters Corp (WAT), Weatherford International Ltd (WFT) {After the close}, Western Union Co (WU), Whirlpool Corp (WHR)

Wednesday: Akamai Technologies Inc (AKAM) {After the close}, Allegheny Technologies Inc (ATI), Ameriprise Financial Inc (AMP) {After the close}, AOL Inc (AOL), Assurant Inc (AIZ) {After the close}, Boeing Co (BA), Bristol-Myers Squibb Co (BMY), Caterpillar Inc (CAT), Cliffs Natural Resources Inc (CLF) {After the close}, CNO Financial Group Inc (CNO) {After the close}, Community Health Systems Inc (CYH) {After the close}, ConocoPhillips (COP), Cooper Industries PLC (CBE), Corning Inc (GLW), Delta Air Lines Inc (DAL), Digital Realty Trust Inc (DLR), Duke Realty Corp (DRE) {After the close}, Eli Lilly and Co (LLY), Equifax Inc (EFX) {After the close}, Equity Residential (EQR) {After the close}, General Dynamics Corp (GD), Hess Corp (HES), KBR Inc (KBR) {After the close}, Las Vegas Sands Corp (LVS) {After the close}, Lorillard Inc (LO), LSI Corp (LSI) {After the close}, Motorola Solutions Inc (MSI), New York Community Bancorp Inc (NYB), Northrop Grumman Corp (NOC), Oceaneering International Inc (OII) {After the close}, Omnicare Inc (OCR), Owens-Illinois Inc (OI) {After the close}, PepsiCo Inc (PEP), Praxair Inc (PX), Questar Corp (STR) {After the close}, RadioShack Corp (RSH), Rockwell Automation Inc (ROK), Ryland Group Inc (RYL) {After the close}, Senior Housing Properties Trust (SNH), Shutterfly Inc (SFLY) {After the close}, Skechers USA Inc (SKX) {After the close}, Southern Co (SO), Teradyne Inc (TER) {After the close}, Terex Corp (TEX) {After the close}, Tesla Motors Inc (TSLA) {After the close}, The Cheesecake Factory Inc (CAKE) {After the close}, The Jones Group Inc (JNY), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc (TMO), Trinity Industries Inc (TRN) {After the close}, US Airways Group Inc (LCC), Visa Inc (V) {After the close}, W. R. Grace & Co (GRA), WellPoint Inc (WLP), Western Digital Corp (WDC) {After the close}, Whiting Petroleum Corp (WLL) {After the close}, Whole Foods Market Inc (WFM) {After the close}, Wyndham Worldwide Corp (WYN), Zynga Inc (ZNGA) {After the close}

Thursday: 3D Systems Corp (DDD), 3M Co (MMM), Acme Packet Inc (APKT), Agco Corp (AGCO), Alaska Air Group Inc (ALK), Amazon.Com Inc (AMZN) {After the close}, Ball Corp (BLL), Boston Scientific Corp (BSX), Brunswick Corp (BC), Bunge Ltd (BG), CA Inc (CA), Cameron International Corp (CAM), CBL & Associates Properties Inc (CBL) {After the close}, CBRE Group Inc (CBG), Chubb Corp (CB) {After the close}, CME Group Inc (CME), CMS Energy Corp (CMS), Colgate-Palmolive Co (CL), CONSOL Energy Inc (CNX), Covidien PLC (COV), Dr Pepper Snapple Group Inc (DPS), Ensco PLC (ESV), EQT Corp (EQT), Exxon Mobil Corp (XOM), Facebook Inc (FB) {After the close}, Federated Investors Inc (FII) {After the close}, Gilead Sciences Inc (GILD) {After the close}, GNC Holdings Inc (GNC), Ingram Micro Inc (IM) {After the close}, International Paper Co (IP), Janus Capital Group Inc (JNS), Kennametal Inc (KMT), Key Energy Services Inc (KEG) {After the close}, Kimberly-Clark Corp (KMB), L-3 Communications Holdings Inc (LLL), McGraw-Hill Companies Inc (MHP), McKesson Corp (MCK) {After the close}, MetroPCS Communications Inc (PCS), Molina Healthcare Inc (MOH) {After the close}, Moodys Corp (MCO), Mylan Inc (MYL), National Oilwell Varco Inc (NOV), Noble Energy Inc (NBL), Occidental Petroleum Corp (OXY), Old Republic International Corp (ORI), Oshkosh Corp (OSK), Patterson-UTI Energy Inc (PTEN), Power-One Inc (PWER) {After the close}, Principal Financial Group Inc (PFG) {After the close}, Prologis Inc (PLD), PulteGroup Inc (PHM), Raytheon Co (RTN), Regal Entertainment Group (RGC) {After the close}, Safeguard Scientifics Inc (SFE), Sprint Nextel Corp (S), Standard Pacific Corp (SPF) {After the close}, Starbucks Corp (SBUX) {After the close}, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc (HOT), Tenneco Inc (TEN), The Hershey Co (HSY), United Continental Holdings Inc (UAL), United Technologies Corp (UTX), Universal Health Services Inc (UHS) {After the close}, Veeco Instruments Inc (VECO) {After the close}, Ventas Inc (VTR), Verisign Inc (VRSN) {After the close}, Vulcan Materials Co (VMC), Waddell & Reed Financial Inc (WDR), Waste Management Inc (WM), Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc (WPI), Zimmer Holdings Inc (ZMH)

Friday: Aon PLC (AON), Arch Coal Inc (ACI), Calpine Corp (CPN), Chevron Corp (CVX), Colfax Corp (CFX), Coventry Health Care Inc (CVH), DR Horton Inc (DHI), Helmerich & Payne Inc (HP), Hercules Offshore Inc (HERO), KKR & Co. L.P. (KKR), Legg Mason Inc (LM), LyondellBasell Industries NV (LYB), Merck & Co Inc (MRK), Newell Rubbermaid Inc (NWL), Newmont Mining Corp (NEM), Rosetta Genomics Ltd (ROSG), Weyerhaeuser Co (WY)
* Earnings dates and times are subject to change

Economic Data this Week

Monday
No announcements scheduled.

Tuesday
FHFA Housing Price Index @ 10:00 AM for May (Est. = n/a, Prior = 0.8%)

Wednesday
MBA Mortgage Index @ 7:00 AM for 07/21 (Est. = n/a, Prior = n/a)
New Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 373K to 375K, Prior = 369K)
Crude Oil Inventories @ 10:30 AM for 07/21 (Est. = n/a, Prior = n/a)

Thursday
Initial Claims @ 8:30 AM for 07/21 (Est. = 381K to 385K, Prior = 386K)
Continuing Claims @ 8:30 AM for 07/14 (Est. = 3300K, Prior = 3300K)
Durable Orders @ 8:30 AM for June (Est. = 0.3% to 1.0%, Prior = 1.3%)
Pending Home Sales @ 10:00 AM for June (Est. = 0.9% to 1.0%, Prior = 5.9%)

Friday
GDP @ 8:30 AM for Q2 (Est. = 0.3% to 1.2%, Prior = 1.9%)
Michigan Sentiment @ 9:55 AM for July (Est. = 71.5 to 72.0, Prior = 72.0)