Stock futures subdued as Europe markets rise

[February 17, 2012]  NEW YORK (AP) -- U.S. stock futures are slightly higher on hopes that Greece would soon get its crucial second bailout and following another batch of upbeat U.S. economic news.

Investors are growing more optimistic that European finance ministers will sign off on the Greek bailout and a bond swap agreement with Greece's private creditors on Monday.

Dow Jones industrial futures are up 33 points to 12,903. The broader S&P 500 futures are up 2 points at 1,357. Nasdaq 100 futures are up 2 points at 2,595.

Sentiment in the markets has been further buoyed by more positive U.S. economic data, particularly in the jobs market. Figures released Thursday showed jobless claims fell last week by 13,000 to 348,000, the lowest level since February 2008.

Most European and Asian markets rose Friday.

[Associated Press]

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