The USD outperformed overnight registering...>

DOLLAR: The USD outperformed overnight registering modest gains across G10. AUD

& NZD were the biggest losers on the session following the release of soft

regional data, with added weight from a weaker China Caixin Services/Composite

PMI release.

- The DXY extended its recovery off the Feb 28 low (95.82) to close above the

100-dma (96.49) in NY. The index remained at elevated levels through Asia with

topside focus on a break of the 76.4% retracement level of 97.36-95.82 & Feb 19

high at 97.00/08, above here opens a run at the Feb 15 high of 97.36.

- Gold extended the downtrend to $1282.92 its lowest levels since mid-January,

and is now registering losses of 4.75% off its Feb 20 high ($1346.80). This

brings the 38.2% retracement level of $1160.39-1346.80 into view at $1275.59, a

break opens the 100-dma at $1266.50.

- Crude futures have stuck to tight ranges thus far, with WTI & Brent each

trading $0.20 worse off.

- Main highlights today from ISM Non-mfg & New Home Sales at 1500GMT. ISM

Non-mfg is anticipated to rise to 57.4 after a prior reading in January of 56.7.