The highly anticipated FOMC meeting gets underway today and while there is a slew of economic data reports out this morning it is unlikely any of them will change sentiment

The highly anticipated FOMC meeting gets underway today and while there is a slew of economic data reports out this morning it is unlikely any of them will change sentiment surrounding the continuation of quantitative easing in its current form. Home prices were up in August according to the S&P.Case Shiller 20 city index, as were retail sales in September according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Inflation remains stagnant and consumer confidence is waning. The Conference Board index fell to 71.2 this month, all the way from 79.7 in the last reading! In mining news, The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) has voted to strike at Impala, the world’s #2 platinum producer. However, platinum’s response remains rather muted as any strike action must be preceded by a 48 hour strike notice. Have a great day!