Us equities slightly weaker after soft manufacturing data $SP500.I

US markets ended the month on a weaker note after Business Activity in the US expanded at its slowest pace since April of 2009. The ISMChicago Index, a barometer for manufacturing fell from 62.2 in March to 56.2 in April. This was lower than expected but still signals growth
Europe continues to struggle with Spain, the EU’s fourth largest economy entering into its second recession since 2009
US majors continue to provide strong earnings data with construction and mining equipment maker Caterpillar posting better than expected profit along with raising its earnings forecast
Leading the moves on the Dow was MRK which was up 2.03%, CAT, BAC and PG all fell 1.71%, 1.70% and1.24% respectively
DOW –0.11%, S&P500 –0.39%, NASDAQ –0.74%
RBA will release its interest rate setting this afternoon at 2.30 PM AEST. The cash rate is currently at 4.25% with the chance of a 0.25% cut
USD was stronger against the EUR as Spain entered a recession
Gold moved higher this morning and Crude is trading around USD105.00