The DXY comfortably held above the 100-dma...>

DOLLAR: The DXY comfortably held above the 100-dma (96.40) yesterday with the

recovery extending to 96.80/85 in holiday themed markets. The stronger dollar

theme spilled over into Asia amid the backdrop of modest risk-aversion, DXY

improved to 96.93 and largely consolidated gains throughout the session. Bulls

target a break back above the 97 level, before challenging the Dec 17 high at

97.45. Near-term support remains at 96.52 from the 38.2% retracement of

95.16-97.36, ahead of the 100-dma.

- Gold touched 10-month highs of $1327.71 yesterday, before fading. The yellow

metal weighed by a firmer dollar drifted throughout Asia and holds toward the

base of its $1322.97-1326.80 range. Bulls continue to focus on the topside with

next resistance at $1332.75 which marks the Apr 24 high, above here opens the

Apr 23 high at $1335.57, ahead of a run toward the $1350 level. Support seen at

$1315.09 from the 50% retracement of $1302.48-1327.71.

- Crude & WTI hold narrow ranges, last $55.96/66.50.

- In the US today data is largely second tier, with the US NY Fed Business

Leaders Index and the NAHB home builder index slated for publication.