With just a few trading days left in 2012 the fiscal cliff remains at the forefront

With just a few trading days left in 2012 the fiscal cliff remains at the forefront of investor concern. The President is apparently cutting his vacation short in a last minute attempt to strike a deal with the GOP over spending cuts and tax increases before the end of the year. With little on tap for economic reports and with many market participants on extended Holiday schedules, thin trading conditions are expected for the remainder of the week. The sole economic report released today came in the form of the S&P/Case-Shiller home price index which indicated that the housing market is continuing to improve. The index showed an increase of .7% for the month of October. Recent sell-offs in the precious complex have given rise to some bargain hunting opportunities. Plaitnum, palladium, gold and silver are all in positive territory to start the day. Have a great day!