Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 4-Argentine refinery workers threaten strike over pay

BUENOS AIRES, April 29 (Reuters) - The Argentine government struggled on Thursday to broker a deal between oil companies and refinery workers to avert a pay strike that threatens to halt fuel production.
As talks resumed late on Thursday, workers prepared for a possible strike that could spark fuel shortages, disrupting the harvest of corn and a record-large soybean crop in one of the world's top grain-exporting nations.
Officials from two energy companies, who asked not to be identified, expressed confidence that an agreement was close, but union leaders said the two sides were still far apart.

Breaking News-RTRS-US soy oil stocks 3.257 bln lbs in March - Census

WASHINGTON, April 29 (Reuters) - U.S. soybean oil stocks totaled 3.257 billion lbs in March, compared to 3.287 billion lbs in February, the U.S. Census Bureau said on Thursday.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 29 (Reuters) - Global markets staged a relief rally on Thursday as Greece's move to enact severe austerity measures to secure an aid package eased fears that the debt crisis will spread across Europe, boosting the euro and fueling the biggest jump in equities since early March.

Risk premiums eased and oil prices rose above $85 a barrel as a potential resolution of Greece's persistent debt problems appeared within grasp. Officials from the European Union, European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund were in Athens to negotiate the bailout and wrap up a deal within days.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> gained 122.05 points, or 1.10 percent, to 11,167.32. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 15.42 points, or 1.29 percent, to 1,206.78. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> added 40.19 points, or 1.63 percent, to 2,511.92.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 29 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended higher for a second day in a row on Thursday as risk appetite sharpened after the euro gained against the dollar on fresh hopes that financial aid to debt-strapped Greece would become available soon.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 29 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Thursday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 3 cents at $9.85-3/4 per bushel; new-crop November up 5 cents at $9.70-1/2. Spillover support from gains in corn and strong number for soy in USDA's weekly export sales report. Weak dollar and higher crude oil also supportive.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.26 cent at 38.80 cents per lb. Support from higher crude oil and unwinding of meal/oil spreads.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Reuters) - Malaysia palm oil futures extended losses for a third session on Thursday as traders booked profits in tandem with weaker commodity markets.

The benchmark July palm oil contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives dropped 0.6 percent, or 16 ringgit, to 2,531 ringgit ($787.2) a tonne. Overall traded volume was 13,894 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 29 (Reuters) - Southeast Asian stock markets rose on Thursday after positive Federal Reserve comments on the
U.S. economy, with bullish earnings views also helping.

Major markets in the region turned higher after losses in the previous two sessions caused by concern about the fiscal crises in some euro zone countries.

Singapore <.FTSTI> rose 0.9 percent, after hitting four-week lows on Wednesday, Indonesia <.JKSE> gained 0.8 percent while Malaysia <.KLSE>, Thailand <.SETI>, the Philippines <.PSI> and Vietnam <.VNI> posted smaller gains.

In Singapore, casino operator Genting Singapore shot up 8.7 percent as its casino continued to attract crowds despite the opening of a rival venue by operator Las Vegas Sands .

In Kuala Lumpur, buying continued in banks with Malayan Banking up 0.4 percent and RHB Capital up 1 percent.

Construction steel firm Ann Joo Resources rose 1.4 percent to 2.89 ringgit after it reported favourable first-quarter earnings and CIMB Investment Bank raised its target price to 3.30 ringgit.

NYMEX Crude Daily: Found some support at USD80.50-81.00

Market looks has found some support at around USD80.50-81.00 and rebounded to test the immediate upside resistance at USD85.63. Thus, market may consolidate and move in the range of USD86.40-87.00 to USD80.50. Violation of either way may provide a more clearer direction.

CPO Tender Summary and Delivery Location as at March 2010

CPO Tender Summary and Delivery Location for the year of 2009

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 28 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve pointed to signs of strength in the economy in comments that gave some relief to investors worried about debt defaults in Europe.

The seesion's climb pushed the Dow industrials back above the psychologically important 11,000 mark in a recovery from a swoon just before midday when Standard & Poor's cut Spain's credit rating. On Tuesday, the market sold off following a Standard & Poor's downgrade of Greece's debt rating to junk and a two-notch cut in Portugal's credit rating as well.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 53.28 points, or 0.48 percent, to end unofficially at 11,045.27. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> added 7.65 points, or 0.65 percent, to finish unofficially at 1,191.36. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> edged up just 0.26 of a point, or 0.01 percent, to close unofficially at 2,471.73.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 28 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures were modestly higher on Wednesday, recovering from earlier lows, as the market weighed guidance from Wall Street, which was called to open higher, and forecasts that government inventory data will show another build in domestic crude stocks.

Energy traders were also watching the currency markets, with the euro rising against the dollar and the yen on optimism that Greece will soon receive assistance to help it service its debts.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange at 9:08 a.m. EDT (1308 GMT), June crude was up 42 cents, or 0.51 percent, at $82.86 a barrel, trading from $81.29 to $82.94.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 28 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Wednesday.
NOTE: Downgrade of Spain's credit rating boosts dollar and weighs on grains.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May unchanged at $9.82-3/4 per bushel; new-crop November up 1/2 cent at $9.93-1/2. Front-month contract turns flat as dollar firms following rating agency's cut of Spain. Deferred contracts receiving support from cold and wet weather that is delaying planting in China.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.58 cent at 38.54 cents per lb. Weak crude oil, turnaround in soybean futures weigh on prices.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Reuters) - Malaysia palm oil futures extended losses for a second session on Wednesday as risk appetite for commodities weakened after a rating agency downgraded Greek and Portuguese debt.

Standard & Poor's on Tuesday cut Greece's credit rating to junk status and downgraded Portugal as investors feared that political pressures could block a multi-billion euro bailout of Greece.

The action has sparked a dollar rally, making it more costly for investors using the euro and other currencies to buy commodities.

The benchmark July crude palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled 3 ringgit lower at 2,547 ringgit ($799.7) a tonne. Overall traded volume stood at 12,204 lots of 25 tonnes each. The same contract hit more than a two-week high of 2,581 ringgit the previous session -- a level last seen on April 9.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 28 (Reuters) - Cuts in the credit ratings of Greece and Portugal depressed sentiment in Southeast Asian stock markets on Wednesday and Singapore's index fell to its lowest in four weeks, also pulled down by some big firms going ex-dividend.

Thailand fell 1.6 percent as another clash between troops and anti-government protestors deepened its political crisis. Malaysia <.KLSE> fell 0.5 percent, Indonesia <.JKSE> 1.2 percent and the Philippines <.PSI> 0.7 percent.

Singapore's Straits Times Index <.FTSTI> fell 2 percent to its lowest since April 1, with Keppel Corp down 3.7 percent, Sembcorp Industry down 3.2 percent and ST Engineering down 2.2 percent, all trading ex-dividend.

Losers also included Singapore Telecommunications , which fell 1.3 percent after its Indian affiliate, Bharti Airtel , posted a worse-than-expected 8 percent fall in quarterly profit.

In Malaysia, the index fell to its lowest since April 19. Palm plantation firm IOI Corp fell 0.7 perent, KL Kepong lost 1.4 percent and financial CIMB Group was down 0.7 percent.

CBOT Soyoil Daily: Sideways to lower

Immediate daily technical landscape weakened further following prices continue to lose ground. Thus, market may move sideways to lower in near term. Any violation of the immediate downside support at Usc38.70 may provide more room to bias downside potential. Next support will be looking at USc38.00. To the upside, resistance is pegged at USc40.20.

Breaking News-RTRS-WRAPUP 4-S&P cuts Greek debt to junk, downgrades Portugal

ATHENS/BERLIN, April 27 (Reuters) - Rating agency Standard and Poor's slashed Greek debt to junk status on Tuesday and also downgraded Portugal, as investors worried political pressures could block a multi-billion euro bailout of Greece.
Markets in Europe and the United States tumbled in reaction to signs that the Greek debt crisis was spreading to other highly indebted states on the periphery of the euro zone.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 27 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks tumbled on Tuesday as downgrades of Greece and Portugal fueled fear about euro-zone economic stability, and a grilling of Goldman Sachs on Capitol Hill heightened the possibility of financial reform.

Stocks posted their worst day in nearly three months and the CBOE Vix volatility index <.VIX>, Wall Street's barometer of investor fear, jumped about 31 percent, its biggest one-day move since October 2008.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> dropped 213.04 points, or 1.90 percent, to 10,991.99. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> slid 28.34 points, or 2.34 percent, to 1,183.71. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> lost 51.48 points, or 2.04 percent, to 2,471.47.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 27 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures were down sharply on Tuesday on expectations of another increase in crude and refined product inventories in weekly industry and government reports.

The euro's fall against the dollar on uncertainty about financial aid for debt-laden Greece also pressured crude futures as investors sought less risky assets.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange at 9:50 a.m. EDT (1350 GMT), June crude was down 65 cents, or 0.77 percent, at $83.55 a barrel, trading from $83.06 to $84.


CBOT-CHICAGO, April 27 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Tuesday.
NOTE: Chicago Board of Trade corn and soybean futures closed lower as Portugal and Greece's debt rating downgraded, hitting the stock market, boosting the dollar and weighing on crude oil.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May down 16 cents at $9.82-3/4. Pressure from downgrade of Portugal and Greece's debt rating, lower stock market, firm dollar, lower crude oil and good crop weather in the U.S..

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.17 cent per lb at 39.12. Following soybeans with lower crude oil also weighing.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures fell on Tuesday after hitting a fresh two-week high as traders booked profits but losses were limited by the weaker ringgit currency.

The benchmark July crude palm oil contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange ended 10 ringgit lower at 2,550 ringgit ($803.9) a tonne after going as high as 2,581 ringgit -- a level unseen since April 9.

Overall volumes shot up to 14,482 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual 10,000 lots in choppy trade. Malaysia's ringgit currency also eased after it hit the highest level in two years on Monday, giving some respite for refiners whose margins get eroded as crude palm oil feedstock is priced in ringgit.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-COLOMBO, April 27 (Reuters) - Thai shares closed weaker on Tuesday because of political woes despite hopes of better earnings, while Singapore fell due to selling pressure ahead of upcoming IPOs.

Singapore <.FTSTI> lost 0.4 percent, Thailand <.SETI> fell 0.3 percent, Indonesia <.JKSE> closed 0.2 percent down from a record high in the previous session, and Malaysia <.KLSE> edged down after touching one-week highs on Monday.

In Kuala Lumpur, the index <.KLSE> inched down 0.03 percent, led by fall in banking shares, with a 0.3 percent fall in both CIMB Group and Public Bank .

FCPO Daily: Holding ground

Immediate technical outlook remains sideways to bias upside potential despite prices erased its earlier gains to end lower. Thus, we continue to look for the immediate upside resistance at 2595-2600. While, downside support is lies at 2503-2497 levels (gap left over on 23/4/2010).

DJI Daily: Into Correction zone

Market hammered down with a long black candle had slow down the market upward momentum. Thus, market may enter into correction zone after the recent long run. Currently, we are looking for the downside support at 10,800-10,700. To the upside, resistance is pegged at 11,258.

FKLI Daily: Sideways likely to continue

Nothing much changes on the immediate technical landscape as prices remains in sideways move. Consolidation phase likely to extend in near term. Hence, market may continue to trade in range between 1320 to 1350.5 levels.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 26 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks edged lower on Monday as bank shares fell on fears that financial reform making its way through Congress will curb profits, while Caterpillar's strong results buoyed the Dow.

A proposal to overhaul financial regulation that could restrict lucrative derivatives trading was expected to face a crucial Senate test vote on Monday and weighed on financial shares.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> edged up 0.75 point, or 0.01 percent, to close at 11,205.03. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> dropped 5.23 points, or 0.43 percent, to 1,212.05. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> lost 7.20 points, or 0.28 percent, to 2,522.95.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 26 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures were lower in choppy trading early on Monday as the dollar strengthened in a sign of risk aversion.

The euro extended losses against the dollar after Germany's chancellor said Greece must commit to further savings measures before Germany can provide emergency aid.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, at 10 a.m. EDT (1400 GMT), June crude was down 50 cents, or 0.59 percent, at $84.62, trading from $84.53 to $85.63.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 26 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Monday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May down 1-1/4 cents at $9.98-3/4 per bushel; new-crop November down 1-1/2 at $9.77-1/2. Profit taking, drop in crude oil weighs on prices after market rallies to $10.09-1/2 early in session.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.06 cent at 39.29 cents per lb. Palm oil ends up as fall in exports slows.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures rose 0.8 percent on Monday to a two-week high, tracking stronger soyoil and crude oil markets, after the latest trade data showed that a decline in Malaysia's palm oil exports slowed.

The benchmark July crude palm oil contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives gained 20 ringgit to 2,560 ringgit ($802.5) a tonne, off a high of 2,568 ringgit -- a level last seen on April 12. Overall traded volume rose to 13,447 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual level around 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 26 (Reuters) - Thai stocks gained over 1 percent on Monday as oil and resource shares recovered ahead of quarterly results, even though prolonged anti-government protests are raising concern about the economic recovery.

Economic optimism brought more fund inflows to the region, pushing Indonesia <.JKSE> to a record high, with Singapore <.FTSTI> and Malaysia <.KLSE> touching one-week highs. The Philippines <.PSI> rose 1.5 percent and Vietnam <.VNI> added 0.4 percent.

In Singapore, the index rose 0.5 percent, climbing to its highest since April 16. The city state's factory output grew by double-digits from a year ago as the trade-dependent economy continues its rebound from its worst ever-recession last year.

Commodities firms were among gainers, with Noble Group rising 0.33 percent and Wilmar International adding 1 percent.

In Kuala Lumpur, the index <.KLSE> inched up 0.25 percent, in line with the Malaysian ringgit on foreign buying of local assets fanned by optimism about the country's economic recovery.

Financial firm CIMB Group rose 0.7 percent and Malayan Banking was up 0.3 percent.

FCPO Daily: Sideways to bias upside potential

Market rebounded for consecutive 3 trading days and violated the physiological resistance at 2500 levels had improved the immediate daily technical outlook to sideways bias upside potential. Thus, we are looking to for the immediate upside resistance at 2595-2600. While, downside support is lies at 2500 levels.

FKLI Daily: Consolidation likely to continue

Market remains stuck in tight range in between 1350.5 to 1320 levels. Thus, market looks may continue to consolidate in near term.

Breaking News-RTRS-Indonesia Q1 palm oil exports up 7 pct on China, India demand

JAKARTA, April 23 (Reuters) - Indonesia's palm oil exports in the first quarter rose 7 percent from a year ago on strong demand from India and China, the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) said on Friday.
Indonesia exported 3.62 million tonnes of palm oil products in the first three months, compared to 3.38 million tonnes in the same period in 2009, Gapki said in a statement.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-China threatens retaliation in Argentina trade spat

BEIJING/BUENOS AIRES, April 22 (Reuters) - A top Chinese trade official said Beijing has no choice but to consider retaliating against Argentina over protectionist moves, deepening a row affecting soyoil shipments, the official Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday.
China has imposed a tough new quality standard on imports of soyoil from Argentina, the world's No. 1 supplier, but Chinese officials have denied it is linked to Argentine anti-dumping measures on China's manufactured goods.

NYMEX Crude Weekly: Sideways to bias upside potential

Market retreated after facing some resistance at USD87.00. Nevertheless, market remains its sideways to bias upside potential move in near term market. Hence, look for the upside resistance at USD87 to 90.50. Immediate downside support is looking at USD80.00

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 23 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose to a 19-month high on Friday as Merck eased concerns about the impact of healthcare reform, saying its costs will be relatively low.

Energy shares lifted the broad market after oil rose 1.7 percent to above $85 a barrel on positive economic data. The S&P energy index <.GSPE> gained 2.3 percent, while Chevron was up 1.8 percent at $82.67.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> gained 69.99 points, or 0.63 percent, to 11,204.28. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 8.61 points, or 0.71 percent, to 1,217.28. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> added 11.08 points, or 0.44 percent, to 2,530.15.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 23 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures settled above $85 a barrel on Friday, the highest in a week, as economic optimism spurred by a big rise in home sales raised new hopes that the economic recovery was on course.

Risk appetite was stronger, with the dollar dipping slightly against a basket of currencies. <.DXY>. The euro rebounded from one-year lows against the dollar as Greece sought to activate a financial aid package and Germany said it was ready to commit to a plan to bail out the debt-laden country.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, June crude settled up $1.42, or $1.7 percent, at $85.12, highest since April 15's $85.51. It traded from $82.92 to $85.1.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 23 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Friday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May down 4-1/4 cents at $10.00 per bushel; new-crop November down 6 at $9.79. Profit-taking after the strong rally to a three-month high on Thursday weighs on soybean futures.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.26 cent at 39.35 cents per lb. Unwinding of meal/oil spreads lifts soyoil and weighs on soymeal. Turnaround in crude oil also supportive to prices.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures climbed 2 percent on Friday to hit one-week highs as rising vegetable oil markets and expectations of improving export data lifted prices.

Cargo surveyors are due to report April 1-25 exports for Malaysia on Monday. Shipments have slowed a downward trend, falling just 9 percent for April 1-20 from a month ago compared to declines of about a third in the first ten days of the month.

The benchmark July crude palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives settled up 50 ringgit to 2,540 ringgit ($793.2) per tonne, a level unseen since April 14. Overall traded volume shot up to 15,169 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 23 (Reuters) - Thai stocks ended almost 1 percent lower on Friday because of escalating political violence, while other markets in Southeast Asia were narrowly mixed, with some heavyweight stocks in demand after good quarterly results.

Singapore <.FTSTI> and the Philippines <.PSI> eked out gains of 0.2 percent while Malaysia <.KLSE> and Indonesia <.JKSE> were marginally lower. Vietnam was closed for a national holiday.

Singapore's Keppel Corp , the world's largest rig builder, rose 0.9 percent after reporting a better-than-expected 13 percent jump in first-quarter net profit, thanks to a strong property business.

In Kuala Lumpur, Maybank was down 0.4 percent and Sime Darby lost 1 percent. Bucking the trend, shipper MISC rose 2.3 percent after an analyst's upgrade.

FCPO Weekly: Immediate technical outlook remains weak

Weekly technical outlook remains weak despite prices close at the weekly high. We continue to look for the upside resistance at 2722-2726 while downside support lies at 2400-2393 levels.Violation of either way may provide a clearer direction to market.

FKLI Weekly: Maintain in upward posture

Market remains its upward posture with upside resistance maintain at 1350.5 and downside support still pegged at 1310-1300.

Breaking News-RTRS-Hwang DBS raises palm oil forecasts, eyes currency impacts

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Reuters) - Hwang DBS raised its crude palm oil price assumptions for 2010 to 2,460 ringgit ($769.2) from 2,380 ringgit on lower inventories.
But the rise was weak as the investment bank also priced in palm oil's narrower discount to rival soyoil. Here are some highlights on the impact of various currencies on palm oil: * Stronger yuan should make palm and soybean oils cheaper in China. But as imported soybeans are already cheaper; a yuan revaluation may prompt measures to protect domestic interests to keep domestic prices from dropping too much.

Breaking News-RTRS-China threatens retaliation in Argentina trade dispute-Xinhua

BEIJING, April 22 (Reuters) - A senior Chinese trade official said China has no choice but to consider retaliatory measures against Argentina, accusing the South American country of growing trade protectionism toward Chinese products, the official Xinhua news agency reported.
China's imports of Argentine soyoil would not be normalised unless Argentine exporters "increase the quality and safety of the product," Xinhua quoted Vice-Commerce Minister Jiang Yaoping as saying in Buenos Aires.
According to the report, Jiang said China had not set up trade barriers against Argentine products, but because of external and internal pressures resulting from protectionist moves by the South American country, China "will have no alternative other than to consider countermeasures".

Breaking News-RTRS-US Census crush data lifts nearby CBOT soy futures

CHICAGO, April 22 (Reuters) - Bullish monthly data on soy processing from the U.S. Census Bureau showing stronger-than-expected usage helped lift soybean and soymeal futures on the Chicago Board of Trade, analysts said Thursday.
The Census Bureau reported that U.S. processors crushed 156.14 million bushels of soybeans during March, up from 144.42 million a year earlier.
The crush figure was slightly above the average estimate among analysts surveyed by Reuters of 154.9 million, and pointed to tightening stocks of U.S. soybeans at the end of the 2009/10 marketing year on Aug. 31.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 22 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks staged a late-day comeback on Thursday as strong quarterly profits from consumer bellwethers like Starbucks Corp outweighed worries about Greece's shaky finances.

First-quarter earnings are on track to set a record for the percentage of companies beating estimates. Eighty-five percent of the 98 S&P 500 companies that have reported so far have beaten estimates, well above the 61 percent in a typical quarter, according to Thomson Reuters.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> climbed 9.37 points, or 0.08 percent, to 11,134.29. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 2.73 points, or 0.23 percent, to 1,208.67. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> gained 14.46 points, or 0.58 percent, to 2,519.07.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 22 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures reversed course in late trading and ended higher on Thursday, as U.S. equities regained composure also late in the day as higher quarterly earnings reinforced optimism about the economic recovery.

Prices were down most of the day on concerns about Greece's fiscal problems, which had sparked flight from commodities and equities to safer havens such as the dollar.

The late recovery in the energy markets followed losses on Wednesday arising from a government inventory report showing crude stockpiles rose last week, defying forecasts for a slight drop.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, crude for June delivery ended up 2 cents, or 0.02 percent, at $83.70 a barrel, recovering from a session low of $81.73. The day's top hit $84.07.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 22 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Thursday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 8-3/4 cents at $10.04-1/4 per bushel; new-crop November up 8 at $9.85. Rallied on technical buying, including short-covering, but spot May encounters resistance above $10 and stays below Wednesday's three-month high of $10.05.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.19 cent per lb at 39.09 cents per lb. Gains with soybeans.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures ended higher on Thursday on stronger vegetable oil markets, although some investors were still cautious on the ringgit currency.

The Malaysian ringgit erased most of its earlier losses as exporters bought the local currency for settlements, weighing on palm oil as the higher ringgit makes the commodity expensive for refiners.

The benchmark July crude palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange settled up 0.8 percent, or 19 ringgit, to 2,490 ringgit ($778.6) per tonne. Overall traded volume stood at 11,918 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 22 (Reuters) - Optimism over first-quarter earnings pushed regional markets higher on Thursday, even Thailand finishing higher after a volatile session as investors bought banks and electronics firms despite political uncertainty.

Singapore <.FTSTI>, Malaysia <.KLSE> and Indonesia <.JKSE> rose between 0.25 and 0.50percent, while Vietnam <.VNI> rose almost 2 percent.

In Singapore, the largest real estate investment trust CapitaMall Trust rose 2.2 percent and bourse operator Singapore Exchange gained 2.5 percent after both
reported favourable quarterly results in recent sessions.

In Kuala Lumpur, contract manufacturer Unisem rose 5.8 percent and Globetronics gained 4.6 percent on expectations chip makers would deliver strong results, following Intel's stunning performance last week.

FCPO Daily: Getting closer to 2500 but yet to break through

Market getting closer to 2500 levels again but yet to break through. Market maintain its sideways to lower posture in near term. Thus, we are looking to for the immediate upside resistance 2500-2504 (left over gap since 19/4/2010)followed by 2525-2530. While, downside support is lies at 2455-2460 followed by 2440-2430.

FKLI Daily: Defended

Market defended well following prices manage to bounce back to close at intra-day high. However, it was not convincing enough to change the immediate daily technical outlook. Thus, correction mode is likely to continue in near term. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 1345-1350.5. While, immediate downside support is lies at 1327-1326 followed by 1320-1310 levels.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 21 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks finished little changed on Wednesday as disappointing outlooks from healthcare companies offset strong earnings from Morgan Stanley and Apple Inc .

Healthcare stocks took a beating after both Abbott Laboratories and Gilead Sciences Inc cut profit forecasts. Both Abbott and Gilead cited the impact of costs from U.S. healthcare reform in their outlooks.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> edged up 7.86 points, or 0.07 percent, at 11,124.92. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> dipped 1.23 points, or 0.10 percent, to 1,205.94. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> inched up 4.30 points, or 0.17 percent, to 2,504.61.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 21 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended a choppy session slightly lower on Wednesday after government oil inventory data showed crude stockpiles rose last week, against a forecast for a slight drop.

While the front-month June crude contract ended lower, nearby months and Brent crude traded in London managed gains.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, June crude fell 17 cents, or 0.2 percent, to settle at $83.68 a barrel, after trading from $82.92 to $84.64.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 21 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Wednesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 11-1/2 cents at $9.95-1/2 per bushel; new-crop November up 13-3/4 at $9.77. Persistent buying of U.S. soy by China lending support, in addition to some support from slow farmer selling and firm cash basis markets.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.17 cent at 38.90 cents per lb. Weak crude oil market pressures prices.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Reuters) - Malaysia palm oil futures dropped 1.1 percent on Wednesday as the stronger ringgit currency prompted some investors to unwind positions despite firmer agriculture markets.

A higher ringgit against the U.S. dollar has prevented the palm oil market from breaking the 2,500 ringgit level this week. The Malaysian currency , the best Asian performer this year, rose 0.3 percent.

A stronger ringgit makes palm oil more expensive for refiners as the crude palm oil feedstock is priced in that currency, chewing into their margins.

The benchmark July crude palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange ended 27 ringgit lower at 2,471 ringgit ($771.7) per tonne. On Monday the contract fell to 2,455 ringgit, a level unseen since Feb. 2. Overall traded volume stood at 11,659 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 21 (Reuters) - Thai stocks fell 1 percent on Wednesday as the market continued volatile because of political unrest in Bangkok, while Singapore and Malaysia turned lower during the day as investors took profits.

Sentiment in the region was fairly positive as listed firms kicked off the results season with favourable quarterly earnings thanks to strength in the regional economy. Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam ended in positive territory.

In Singapore, top developer CapitaLand eased 0.3 percent but Keppel Land rose 2.2 percent after it posted a 75 percent increase in quarterly net profit.

Singapore Airlines gained 0.66 percent, reversing recent losses, after it reinstated some flights to and from Europe.

Other airlines in the region were mixed, with Malaysian Airline System sliding 0.9 percent but Thai Airways rising 1 percent.

In Kuala Lumpur, chip makers gained, with Unisem up 0.6 percent. Broker AmResearch said it expected Malaysian chip makers to deliver strong results, following Intel's stunning performance last week.

FCPO Daily: Sideways to lower

Market tested 2500 levels at intra-day basis but yet to break through. Immediate daily technical outlook remains weak and may extend its sideways to lower move in near term. Thus, we are looking to for the immediate upside resistance 2500-2504 (left over gap since 19/4/2010)followed by 2525-2530. While, downside support is lies at 2455-2460 followed by 2440-2430.

FKLI Daily: Weakening

Market momentum looks weakened a little following prices continue to lose ground. Thus, correction mode is likely to continue in near term. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 1345-1350.5. While, immediate downside support is lies at 1327-1326 followed by 1320-1310 levels.

Breaking News-RTRS-Malaysian palm oil output may fall -Oil World

HAMBURG, April 20 (Reuters) - The rise in Malaysian palm oil output in March was only temporary and production falls are possible in coming months, Hamburg-based oilseeds analysts Oil World forecast on Tuesday.

\breaking News-RTRS-Indonesia plans own "green" certification for palm oil

JAKARTA, April 20 (Reuters) - Under increasing pressure from environmentalists, Indonesia plans to introduce "green certificates" for palm oil producers who meet sustainable standards, a senior agriculture official said on Tuesday.
The government plans to issue Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification to cover production from field to factory, said Achmad Manggabarani, director general of plantation crops at the agriculture ministry.
The global palm oil industry has promoted green certification through the voluntary Roundtable of Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), a group formed in 2004 to develop ethical practises including commitments to preserving rainforests and wildlife.
Some players in Indonesia, the world's biggest producer of palm oil, already subscribe to the RSPO system, but many do not.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-China may ease rules on Argentine soyoil - report

BUENOS AIRES, April 20 (Reuters) - China could relax a tough new import standard to normalize soyoil exports from top supplier Argentina, a daily newspaper reported on Tuesday.
The disruption to exports is raising concern in the South American country because it threatens a key source of hard currency and authorities have been trying to negotiate a solution with Chinese officials.
The new standard was imposed three weeks ago, but China denies it was in retaliation for Argentina's decision to restrict some Chinese imports, such as shoes and steel pipes, to protect local industry during the global slowdown.

FCPO Daily: Shies away at 2500 levels

Market shies away at 2500 levels closing off the intra-high. Prices manage to rebound to cover partial of the left over upside gap had cushioned a little the market downside momentum. However, more strength is still needed in order to change the current sideways to lower move. Currently, we are looking for the immediate upside, resistance 2500-2504 (left over gap since 19/4/2010)followed by 2525-2530. While, downside support is lies at 2455-2460 followed by 2440-2430.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 20 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose on Tuesday as oil prices lifted energy shares and investors were upbeat about the overall profits recovery, even as some high-profile results fell short of lofty expectations.

Goldman Sachs earnings trounced forecasts, but its stock slipped 2.1 percent to $159.98. UK regulators launched a probe into alleged fraud by the company, adding to worries caused by U.S. fraud charges.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> added 25.01 points, or 0.23 percent, to 11,117.06. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 9.65 points, or 0.81 percent, to 1,207.17. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> gained 20.20 points, or 0.81 percent, to 2,500.31.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 20 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures edged up in post-settlement trading on Tuesday after industry data showed that crude stocks fell more than expected last week.

Heating oil and gasoline futures also inched up, after data from the American Petroleum Institute showed that inventories of those petroleum products fell, against forecasts that they increased.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, June crude was up 93 cents, or 1.12 percent, at $84.06 a barrel. It had settled up 72 cents, or 0.87 percent, at $83.85, trading from $83.17 to $84.52.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 20 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Tuesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 7-1/4 cents at $9.84 per bushel; November up 7-1/4 at $9.63-1/4. Short-covering bounce after the sharp decline on Monday. Strong export demand and firm crude oil prices lend support.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.14 cent at 39.07 cents per lb. Short-covering, gains in soybeans and firm crude oil lift soyoil futures.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures climbed 1.1 percent on Tuesday, recovering from an 11-week low in the previous session due to better export data and rising crude prices.

The ringgit , Asia's best performing currency so far this year, rose against the U.S. dollar and curbed further gains in palm oil markets. A stronger ringgit makes crude palm oil more expensive for refiners and eats into their margins.

The benchmark July crude palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia Deravatives Exchange settled up 28 ringgit to 2,498 ringgit ($776.7) per tonne. On Monday the contract fell to 2,455 ringgit the previous session, a level unseen since Feb. 2.

Overall traded volume rose to 17,814 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-COLOMBO, April 20 (Reuters) - Thai stocks rose more than 5 percent on Tuesday, turning round from a three-session fall as some investors took the view the authorities were ready to take action to end protracted anti-government protests in the capital. Foreigners returned as valuations remained cheap, analysts said.

Regional markets that had been hurt by worries over the fraud allegations against Goldman Sachs recovered some poise, with Singapore <.FTSTI> rising 0.7 percent, Indonesia <.JKSE> 1.8 percent and Malaysia <.KLSE> 0.7 percent, led by banking shares.

In Singapore, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp gained 0.4 percent and United Overseas Bank added 0.8 percent. Bucking the trend, top lender DBS Group Holdings fell 0.4 percent.

FKLI Daily: in Correction mode

Market was in correction mode after covering the upside gap left over at 1326-1330.5 levels. Hence, market look may move bias to sideways. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 1345-1350.5. While, to the downside support is lies at 1320-1310 levels.

FCPO Daily: Sideways to lower

Market ends the consolidation phase following prices violated the 2500 levels convincingly. Thus, market may move sideways to lower in near term. To the upside, resistance is pegged at 2494-2504 (gap left over on 19/4/2010). While, downside support is lies at 2430-2400.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 2-China '09/10 soyoil imports seen down 40 pct on yr

BEIJING, April 19 (Reuters) - China's soyoil imports could fall nearly 40 percent in the year ending September thanks to delays in cargoes from Argentina, but analysts said large stocks of vegetable oil would help cushion the impact and any boost to global prices would be brief.
The country's soyoil imports could fall to 1.5 million tonnes in the year to September 2010, the China National Grain and Oils Information Centre (CNGOIC) has estimated.
There would be no Argentine soyoil cargoes to be loaded in April and loading of some previously purchased cargoes has been delayed, the center said on its web site (www.grain.gov.cn).
Although lower soyoil imports from Argentina will be supportive for the U.S. Chicago soy market, the underpinning will be brief, one analyst said.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 19 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rebounded on Monday after investors reassessed the potential fallout from the fraud charges against Goldman Sachs while the dollar rose on safe-haven demand spurred by delayed Greece debt talks.

Risk aversion eased late in the day on Wall Street as fears about the impact of the Goldman case ebbed and investors turned their attention to pending results from companies reporting first-quarter earnings.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> closed up 63.56 points, or 0.58 percent, at 11,082.22. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> gained 4.16 points, or 0.35 percent, at 1,196.29. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> slipped 4.22 points, or 0.17 percent, at 2,477.04.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 19 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended lower on Monday as investors sought safer havens and bullish sentiment continued to turn sour in the aftermath of fraud charges brought against Goldman Sachs on Friday.

Expiration of the May contract on Tuesday also pressured traders to sell off positions on the front month. Prices were down for the third session in a row.

The dollar grew stronger and Europe's shut air space curbed jet fuel demand. That pressured heating oil futures, which are used as the benchmark against which jet fuel is traded.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude settled down $1.79, or 2.15 percent, at $81.45 a barrel, the lowest since front-month crude settled at $80 March 26.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 19 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Monday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May down 8-1/2 cents at $9.76-3/4 a bushel; November down 9-1/2 at $9.56. Firm dollar and spillover pressure from corn and crude oil weigh on market, along with technical selling and profit-taking after last week's rally to three-month highs.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.87 cent at 38.93 cents per lb. Lower on meal/oil spreading and in sympathy with falling crude oil and soybeans.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 19 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures tumbled to an 11-week low as fraud charges against Goldman Sachs prompted investors to book profits in most commodity and equity markets.

The ringgit , now a key curb to any gain in palm oil prices, also eased against the U.S. dollar. But traders said the ringgit, the best performing currency in Asia so far this year, still kept refiners away from the market.

The benchmark July crude palm oil contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives fell as much as 2.5 percent, or 63 ringgit to 2,455 ringgit ($769.6), a level unseen since Feb. 2. The contract settled down 48 ringgit to 2,470 ringgit

Trade volumes were heavy in the afternoon session, rising to 17,234 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 19 (Reuters) - Thai stocks ended down 1.3 percent on Monday but recouped some losses after a plan by two former prime ministers to seek an audience with King Bhumibol Adulyadej to try to end the country's growing political crisis.

All regional markets came under selling pressure after U.S. regulators filed fraud charges against Goldman Sachs, which hurt banking stocks. Singapore <.FTSTI>, Indonesia <.JKSE> and the Philippines <.PSI> all fell more than 1 percent.

In Singapore, DBS Group Holding fell 0.8 percent, while Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp and United Overseas Bank dropped over 1 percent.

In Kuala Lumpur, Malayan Banking and Public Bank each fell 0.5 percent. In Jakarta, Bank Central Asia fell 1.7 percent and Bank Rakyat slid 0.6 percent.

FKLI Daily: Losing upward momentum

Market is losing its upward momentum following prices gap down to fully cover the downside gap at 1327.5-1320.5 levels. Thus, market may enter into correction mode after the recent strong rally. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 1326-1330.5. While, downside support is lies at 1310-1300 levels.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 16 (Reuters) - Financial stocks plunged on Friday, ending Wall Street's six-day winning streak as fraud charges against Goldman Sachs and some disappointing earnings sent investors running for cover.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> dropped 125.91 points, or 1.13 percent, to 11,018.66, according to the latest available figures. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> lost 19.54 points, or 1.61 percent, to 1,192.13. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> shed 34.43 points, or 1.37 percent, to 2,481.26.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 16 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures tumbled nearly 3 percent on Friday, the biggest one-day percentage loss in 10 weeks, as a downturn on Wall Street on news that U.S. securities regulators were charging Goldman
Sachs Group Inc with fraud, pressured commodities markets as well.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude settled down $2.27, or 2.65 percent, at $83.24 a barrel, trading from $82.52 to $85.44.

The May crude contract's drop was the biggest one-day percentage loss since Feb. 5, when prices fell 2.7 percent. For the week, prices fell $1.68, or 1.98 percent.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 1-1/4 cents at $9.85-1/4 a bushel. Fund buying amid support from bullish technical signals after May broke through resistance on Thursday at its 200-day moving average.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.27 cent at 39.80 cents per lb. Meal/oil spreading and pressure from lower crude oil.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures ended higher on Friday after a four-day losing streak, with lower crude oil prices offset by hopes of stronger exports.

The ringgit , Asia's best performing currency this year, which has been acting as a curb to any gain in palm oil prices, eased against the U.S. dollar.

Benchmark July crude palm oil contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives settled down 0.3 percent, or 8 ringgit, at 2,518 ringgit ($789.1). Trade volumes stood at 10,226 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 16 (Reuters) - Thai stocks fell to their lowest in a month on Friday on broad selling of big-cap stocks due to political uncertainty following deadly clashes between troops and anti-government protesters in Bangkok.

The Thai SET index <.SETI> ended 3.25 percent lower, after a 3.6 percent loss on Monday before the three-day New Year holiday.

In Indonesia <.JKSE>, losses were led by a 4.4 percent fall in cigarette firm Gudang Garam . Banks fell on profit-taking, with Bank Central Asia down 0.9 percent and Bank Mandiri off 2.9 percent.

The Jakarta rally has made it one of the more expensive markets in the region, with a price-to-book ratio of 3.4 times, higher than Singapore <.FTSTI>, Malaysia <.KLSE> and Thailand at less than 2.0, according to StarMine, a Thomson Reuters company.

In Kuala Lumpur, Axiata Group fell 2.1 percent following its plan to issue $300 million in notes, with the proceeds to be used for repament of term loans.

FCPO Weekly: in Tight range

Market extended its tight rangy mode between 2722-2726 to 2400-2393 levels.Violation of either way may provide a clearer direction to market.

DJI Weekly: Remains in positive mode

Immediate weekly technical landscape remains in positive mode despite prices ended sharply lower for the week. As for now, we are looking for the immediate upside resistance at 11,400 to 11,500. To the downside, support is lies at 10,700 to 10,500.

FKLI Weekly: Slowing down its upside move

Market maintain its upward posture but had show some sign of slowing down. Thus,market may due for consolidation mode in near term with upside resistance is pegged at 1350.5. To the downside, support is pegged at 1315-1300.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 2-Chinese importers delay Argentine soyoil orders

BUENOS AIRES, April 14 (Reuters) - Chinese soyoil importers are asking Argentine exporters not to send shipments of the oil that had been bought before Beijing started imposing a new import standard, traders in Buenos Aires said on Wednesday.
Chinese authorities have denied the new rules were imposed in retaliation for Argentina's decision to restrict some Chinese imports, such as shoes and steel pipes, to protect local industry during the global economic crisis.
The disruption to exports is raising concern in Argentina because it threatens a key source of hard currency.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 15 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks posted their sixth straight day of gains on Thursday as an encouraging profit forecast from United Parcel Service lifted transportation shares, though concerns about a rise in weekly jobless claims limited the market's advance.

Financial stocks weighed on the S&P 500 as they gave back some gains after Wednesday's strong rally.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 21.46 points, or 0.19 percent, to end at 11,144.57. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> edged up 1.02 points, or 0.08 percent, to 1,211.67. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> gained 10.83 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 2,515.69.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 15 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended lower on Thursday, roiled by pre-expiry trading on options on the front-month May crude contract, analysts said.

The downturn follows a 2 percent rally on Wednesday that was sparked by a surprise crude inventory drawdown and a bigger-than-expected fall in gasoline stocks.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude settled down 33 cents, or 0.38 percent, at $85.51 a barrel, trading from $85.27 to $86.27. NYMEX May crude expires on April 20.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 15 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Thursday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 15 cents at $9.84 a bushel; November up 14-3/4 cents at $9.61. Slow farmer selling in the U.S. and in South America and brisk demand lifted cash markets and soy futures followed. Short-covering technical rally and fund buying also cited.


CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.21 cent at 40.07 cents per lb. Following soybeans.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures fell for the fourth straight session on Thursday as the ringgit currency strengthened against the U.S. dollar, eating into refining margins.

Weak Malaysian palm oil exports in the first half of April and prospects of stocks rising higher also weighed on the market, although the rise of crude oil above $86 a barrel limited losses.

By midday, the benchmark June crude palm oil contract on Bursa Malaysia Derivatives shed 0.3 percent, or 8 ringgit, to settle at 2,520 ringgit ($788) a tonne. Volume fell to 3,453 lots of 25 tonnes from the usual 5,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-COLOMBO, April 15 (Reuters) - Positive economic data from China and the U.S. helped Southeast Asian stocks led by Indonesia, but Philippines shed earlier gains to close in the red.

Indonesia <.JKSE> gained 0.54 percent, Malaysia <.KLSE> rose 0.22 percent, and Vietnam closed 1 percent firmer.

Singapore's Straits Time Index <.FTSTI> edged down 0.1 percent after hitting a new 21-month high during trade, while Philippines index <.PSI> closed 0.6 percent weaker on profit taking ahead of the elections on May 10.

In Kuala Lumpur, the index <.KLSE> closed up 0.2 percent led by a 2.4 percent gain in telecoms firm Axiata Group and a 1.4 percent rise in Genting Group .

CBOT Soyoil Daily: Sideways to bias upside potential

Market is maintaining its sideways to higher posture following prices surged to close at the intra-day high. As for now, we continue to look for the upside resistance at USc40.96-41.00. While, downside support is lies at USc39.85-39.50.

Breaking News-RTRS-Indonesian palm oil exports to grow despite sales halt -industry

JAKARTA, April 14 (Reuters) - A decision by top palm oil buyers to halt purchases from Indonesia is unlikely to affect palm oil exports from Southeast Asia's biggest economy given strong demand, an industry official said on Wednesday.

Breaking News-RTRS-China April soy imports seen at 4.3 mln T-MOFCOM

BEIJING, April 14 (Reuters) - China's Commerce Ministry said buyers had reported imports of 4.3 million tonnes of soybeans for April.
That was slightly higher than the 4 million tonnes of actual arrivals in March recorded by China's Customs. Rains in Brazil had delayed loadings of cargoes to China from April to May, when China was expected to import a record amount of more than 5 million tonnes, traders said.
The China National Grain and Oils Information Center (CNGOIC) expected May imports at between 5 to 5.5 million tonnes.

Breaking News-RTRS-Chinese importers cancel Argentine soyoil orders

BUENOS AIRES, April 14 (Reuters) - Chinese soyoil importers are asking Argentine exporters not to send shipments of the oil that had been bought before Beijing started imposing a new import standard, traders in Buenos Aires said on Wednesday.
One trader said they did not want Argentine soyoil orders to be shipped even if they met the new requirement.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 14 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks notched a fifth straight day of gains on Wednesday as stronger-than-expected corporate results and March retail sales pushed the S&P 500 past 1,200 for the first time in 18 months.

Dow components Intel Corp and JPMorgan Chase & Co paced the market after both posted better-than-expected results.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> was up 103.69 points, or 0.94 percent, at 11,123.11. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> was up 13.35 points, or 1.12 percent, at 1,210.65. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> was up 38.87 points, or 1.58 percent, at 2,504.86.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 14 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended 2.13 percent higher on Wednesday after the government reported an unexpected drop in domestic crude stockpiles last week, snapping a 10-week supply buildup.

Upbeat economic data on U.S. retail sales, a weaker dollar and falling fuel stocks in China lifted crude futures early as crude broke a string of five consecutive lower settlements.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude rose $1.79, or 2.13 percent, to settle at $85.84 a barrel, trading from $83.71 to $86.39.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 14 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex closing trends on Wednesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 1 cent at $9.69 a bushel; November up 1-1/4 cents at $9.46-1/4. Technical picture bullish early but nearby contract gave up gains after briefly breaking resistance point at 200-day moving average of $9.74-1/4. Reports of farmer sales in South America added pressure to the market, limiting gains.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.12 cent at 39.86 cents per lb. Gains in crude oil lend support to soyoil market.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures made a little headway on Wednesday as firmer crude oil played tug-of-war with expectations of slower demand and improving production for this month.

The benchmark June contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange fell 3ringgit or 0.12 percent to 2,528 ringgit ($790) per tonne. Traded volume was just 10,596 lots of 25 tonnes each.

The market traded in a narrow range as players awaited fresh leads from cargo surveyors who are due on Thursday to unveil export numbers for the first 15 days of April.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-SINGAPORE, April 14 (Reuters) - Singapore stocks jumped to their highest level since June 2008 on Wednesday as the local economy accelerated, prompting the central bank to declare the country had fully recovered from its worst-ever recession.

Singapore's trade-dependent economy expanded 13.1 percent in the first quarter from a year ago, the strongest since 1994 and beating expectations for an 11 percent rise.

The Singapore government also raised its 2010 growth forecast to between 7 and 9 percent, from a previous 4.5-6.5 percent.

The Straits Times Index <.FTSTI> ended 1.6 percent higher at 3,019.7 points, breaching the psychologically important 3,000 level and convincingly moving above the 61.8 percent retracement level of its downward move between September 2007 and March 2009.

Other Southeast Asian markets were tepid, however, with the year's strongest performer this year, Indonesia, ending little changed on the day. Malaysia closed up 0.1 percent.

FCPO Daily: range between 2500 to 2600 levels

Range trading between 2500 to 2600 looks likely to continue in near term as nothing much changes to the immediate daily technical landscape.

FKLI Daily: in sideways mode

Market continue to hover in sideways mode to trade in between 1330-1350 levels in upward posture. Thus, we are waiting a significant breakout from the either way for a more clearer direction.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 3-Argentina says China soyoil talks progressing

BUENOS AIRES, April 13 (Reuters) - Argentine officials said on Tuesday talks to resolve a trade spat with China over soyoil were progressing and many exporters would be able to meet tough new import standards imposed by Beijing.
The new requirements have put a question mark over a key hard currency earner for the South American country, the world's biggest soyoil exporter. They also threaten to squeeze supplies in China, the top consumer of the edible oil.
Chinese authorities have denied the new rules were imposed in retaliation for Argentina's decision to restrict some Chinese imports like shoes and steel pipes to protect local industry during the global economic crisis.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 13 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks closed slightly higher on Tuesday on hopes that key upcoming earnings results would provide evidence the global economy is recovering, while the euro was pressured by lingering concerns about Greece.

U.S. Treasury debt prices mostly rose on safe-haven buying as investors remained cautious about the fiscal problems of the weakest euro zone members and before a slew of key corporate earnings that will help gauge the strength of the economy.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> ended 13.45 points higher, or up 0.12 percent, at 11,019.42, while the Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> edged up 0.82 point, or 0.07 percent, at 1,197.30. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> rose 8.12 points, or 0.33 percent, to 2,465.99.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 13 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended lower for the fifth day in a row on Tuesday, ahead of weekly inventory reports forecast to show the 11th straight week of a buildup in crude inventories. A flurry of late short-covering limited the day's losses, traders said.

Crude futures were also aided briefly by the release of minutes of the Federal Reserve's mid-March meeting, in which policy makers noted that modest recovery was under way but also raised questions about its sustainability.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude settled down 29 cents, or 0.34 percent, at $84.05 a barrel, trading from $82.51 to $84.36.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 13 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Tuesday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 8 cents at $9.68 a bushel; November up 10 cents at $9.45. Turned higher after weak open as lack of cash selling by U.S. and South American farmers limiting supplies at processors and elevators.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.15 cent at 39.74 cents per lb. Weak crude oil market weighs on prices.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 13 (Reuters) - Malaysian crude palm oil futures ended little changed on Tuesday as selling on the back of weaker exports in April was offset by buying on the back of last month's lower stocks data.

Cargo surveyors reported that Malaysian palm oil exports for the first ten days of April fell by a third. But this week, industry regulator Malaysian Palm Oil Board said palm oil stocks dropped to six month lows in March.

The benchmark June crude palm oil contract on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives ended 1 ringgit lower to settle at 2,524 ringgit ($787.5) a tonne after going as low as 2,511 ringgit. Overall traded volume stood at 11,203 lots of 25 tonnes each.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-HONG KONG, April 13 (Reuters) - Philippine shares ended at a two-year high on Tuesday, outperforming other Southeast Asian markets, underpinned by expectations that the economy would rise at a faster clip this year, helping lift corporate earnings.

Other markets were lower on profit-taking. Escalating political tensions in Thailand weighed on sentiment, analysts said. Singapore <.FTSTI> fell 0.2 percent, Malaysia <.KLSE> eased 0.4 percent and Vietnam <.VNI> shed 0.4 percent.

NYMEX Crude Daily: Losing ground

Market continue to lose ground following prices ended down for straight five days and tested the support at USD83.00 in intra-day basis. As for now, we are looking at the immediate upside resistance at USD85.71-85.88 followed by USD86.37. To the downside, immediate support is lies at USD82.00-81.50.

FCPO Daily: Sideways

Market extended its sideways move in between 2500-2600 levels and nothing much changes on the immediate technical outlook. Thus, we continue to wait for a significant breakout from the either way to provide a more clearer direction to market.

FKLI Daily: Due for Consolidation

Market slowing down its upward move after the recent strong rally. Thus, market may due for consolidation in near term with upside resistance is pegged at 1350.5 While, downside support is adjusted to 1330 followed by 1327.5-1320.5 (gap left over on 1/4/2010).

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-Chinese buyers stop seeking Argentine soyoil imports

BEIJING/BUENOS AIRES, April 12 (Reuters) - Chinese buyers have stopped applying for new import permits after authorities in Beijing slapped new quality standards on shipments from the South American nation around two weeks ago.
Importers are exploring alternative origins, including Brazil for soyoil and Malaysia for palm oil imports, although high domestic stocks and firm prices were discouraging buyers from entering into new deals, traders said on Monday.
Some cargoes were postponed, while at least one cargo was switched to India, they said.

NYMEX Crude Daily: May due for consolidation phase

Market is facing some resistance at USD87.00 and looks may due for a consolidation in near term. As for now, we are looking at the immediate upside resistance at USD87.09. To the downside, immediate support is lies at USD83.95 followed by USD83.00

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 12 (Reuters) - The Dow industrials closed above 11,000 for the first time in almost 19 months on Monday as expectations of solid first-quarter earnings spurred buying in financial, energy and industrial sectors.

Even so, some investors said stock prices already reflect lofty expectations for first-quarter results, with both the Dow and the S&P 500 near 19-month highs.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> rose 8.62 points, or 0.08 percent, to 11,005.97 -- its highest close since September 2008. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> climbed 2.11 points, or 0.18 percent, to 1,196.48. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> added 3.82 points, or 0.16 percent, to 2,457.87.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 12 (Reuters) - U.S. crude futures fell on Monday, a fourth consecutive lower settlement, as concerns about high inventories and tepid demand offset support from a weaker dollar.

Crude futures seesawed, with oil lifted at times during the session by plans to aid Greece, which strengthened the euro against the dollar, and data showing China imported a near record monthly amount of crude oil in March.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude fell 58 cents, or 0.68 percent, to settle at $84.34 a barrel, trading from $84.08 to $85.71.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 12 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Monday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 7-3/4 cents at $9.60 a bushel; November down 1-1/2 cents at $9.35. Nearbys gain sharply against deferreds on bull spreads, supported by slow farmer sales in U.S. and South America, along with news of fresh sales of old-crop U.S. soybeans to China.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May down 0.45 cent at 39.59 cents per lb. Losing ground to soymeal as oil/meal spreads unwind and setting back from last week's gains.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 12 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures ended mixed on Monday due to a technical correction with the benchmark June contract down 2.3 percent after hitting a near three-week high the previous session.

The market will probably trade in a tight range in the immediate term said a trader from a foreign brokerage, pegging the support and resistance levels for crude palm oil futures at 2,500 and 2,600 ringgit.

The benchmark June contract on Bursa Malaysia's derivatives exchange closed 59 ringgit lower at 2,535 ringgit ($796.2) a tonne. Traded volume rose to 14,632 lots of 25 tonnes each from the usual 10,000 lots.

Malaysia's March palm oil stocks dropped 7.5 percent to six-month lows as overseas demand outweighed a strong production recovery in absolute terms, industry regulator Malaysia Palm Oil Board said on Monday.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 12 (Reuters) - Thai stocks fell 3.6 percent to four-week lows on Monday as investors unloaded big caps after a deadly anti-government protests, while Indonesia rose over 1 percent, with bank stocks leading the way.

Other Southeast Asian markets extended gains, with Singapore <.FTSTI> edging up 0.17 percent, Malaysia <.KLSE> adding 0.4 percent, the Philippines <.PSI> climbing 1.3 percent and Vietnam <.VNI> finishing 0.5 percent higher.

In Singapore, actively traded stocks included Cosco Corp , which jumped 9.3 percent. Top bank DBS Group rose 1.8 percent and Singapore Telecoms was up 0.6 percent.

Among outperformers in Kuala Lumpur, financial CIMB Group gained 0.7 percent and Tenaga Nasional rose 0.5 percent.

FCPO Daily: Traded in between 2500-2600

Market continue to trade in between 2500 to 2600 level. We are still waiting for a significant breakout from the either way to provide a more clearer direction to market.

FKLI Daily: Maintain in upward posture

Market maintain its upward posture and looks likely to challenge again the recent high at 1350.5 followed by the next upside resistance at 1360-1375. While, downside support is adjusted to 1330 followed by 1315-1310.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 1-Malaysia's March palm stocks fall to 6-month lows

KUALA LUMPUR, April 12 (Reuters) - Malaysia's March palm oil
stocks dropped to six month lows as overseas demand outweighed a
strong production recovery in absolute terms.
The Malaysian Palm Oil Board said on Monday that stocks in
the world's No.2 producer of the vegetable oil dropped 7.5
percent to slightly more than 1.65 million tonnes, a level unseen
since September and staying within market expectations.
But pace of the decline in stocks has slowed as palm oil
yield improved in key producing states of Sabah on Borneo island
and Johor on the mainland while the drier weather from El Nino
weather condition appeared to ease.

FCPO Weekly: still in consolidation

Consolidation looks likely to extend in near term as prices remains traded in rangy mode between 2722-2726 to 2400-2393 levels.Violation of either way may provide a clearer direction to market.

Breaking News-RTRS-China soy, grains market weekly report - CNGOIC

BEIJING, April 9 (Reuters) - China's new orders for imported soybeans are likely to remain at a low level in coming weeks, with soy crushers expected to import a record volume in May, the China National Grain and Oils Information Center (CNGOIC) said on Friday.
China, the top soy buyer, was likely to import between 4.6 million and 5 million tonnes of the oilseed in May. March imports were estimated at 4 million to 4.2 million tonnes, the official think tank said.

DJI Weekly: Strengthened further

Market surpassing 11,000 had strengthened further the overall immediate technical outlook to bias upside potential. As for now, we are looking for the upside resistance at 11,140-11,160 followed by 11,500. To the downside, support is lies at 10,700 followed by 10,500.

Trader's Highlight

DJI-NEW YORK, April 9 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks rose on Friday with the Dow surpassing 11,000 for the first time in a year-and-a-half after Chevron's upbeat outlook and wholesale inventories data reinforced bets on an improving economy.

The S&P energy sector <.GSPE>, up 1.1 percent, led the market's advance. Chevron Corp climbed 2.4 percent to $79.50 a day after it said its refining and marketing arm would return to profit in the first quarter.

The Dow Jones industrial average <.DJI> gained 70.28 points, or 0.64 percent, to end at 10,997.35. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index <.SPX> rose 7.93 points, or 0.67 percent, to 1,194.37. The Nasdaq Composite Index <.IXIC> added 17.24 points, or 0.71 percent, to 2,454.05.

NYMEX-NEW YORK, April 9 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil futures ended lower for a third consecutive session on Friday, as concerns about demand, high inventories and technical weakness combined to push oil lower.

Trading seesawed as hopes for a rescue solution for debt-laden Greece strengthened the euro against the dollar -- usually a bullish scenario for oil -- while a ratings agency downgrade of Greece's credit ratings sparked concern about oil demand.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, May crude fell 47 cents, or 0.55 percent, to settle at $84.92 a barrel, trading from $84.12 to $86.37.

CBOT-CHICAGO, April 9 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade grains and soy complex close on Friday.

CBOT-SOYBEANS - May up 5-3/4 cents at $9.52-1/4 a bushel; November down 1 at $9.36-1/2. Lower-than-expected U.S. soy ending stocks figure in USDA's April report viewed supportive, along with weaker dollar.

CBOT-SOYOIL - May up 0.12 cent at 40.04 cents per lb. Following soybeans despite weak crude oil market.

FCPO-KUALA LUMPUR, April 9 (Reuters) - Malaysia crude palm oil futures closed broadly higher on Friday ahead of a key industry report on Monday which traders said will likely show a drop in the country's palm oil inventory.

At the close, the benchmark June contract jumped 3.8 percent to 2,594 ringgit ($810.9) per tonne and the May contract added 1.3 percent to close at 2,553.

Overall traded volume stood at 16,708 lots of 25 tonnes each -- sharply higher than the usual 10,000 lots.

REGIONAL EQUITIES-BANGKOK, April 9 (Reuters) - Thai stocks ended 0.7 percent higher on Friday, recouping losses after prominent emerging market fund manager Mark Mobius recommended the market, while Indonesia fell after investors took profits on bank stocks.

Other Southeast Asian markets extended gains because of optimism over the region's economic growth and the earnings prospects of listed companies.

Singapore <.FTSTI> ended up 0.3 percent, Malaysia <.KLSE> inched up 0.08 percent and Vietnam <.VNI>, the region's smallest market, rose 0.29 percent.

FKLI Weekly: Likely to move higher

Market remains its bullishness after fully covered the gap left over at 1345-1348 levels. Thus, uptrend remains intact and looks may continue to challenge the next resistance at 1385-1395. To the downside, support is pegged at 1315-1300.

Breaking News-RTRS-Pertamina to buy palm oil from state firms for biofuel

JAKARTA, April 8 (Reuters) - Indonesia's state plantation firms plan to supply state oil firm Pertamina with 300,000 tonnes of palm oil-based biofuel per year from their new jointly owned biofuel plant, a company president director said on Thursday.
The biofuel plant owned by the consortium -- which consists of state plantation firms PT Perkebunan III, PT Perkebunan IV, and PT Perkebunan V -- will cost about 500 billion rupiah ($55.28 million) to build and will have capacity of up to one million tonnes within five years, officials said.

Breaking News-RTRS-UPDATE 2-Geithner, Wang exchange views on US-China concerns

WASHINGTON, April 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, facing pressure from Congress to name China a currency manipulator, met Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan in Beijing on Thursday but there was no word on whether they discussed a possible yuan revaluation.

Breaking News-RTRS-PREVIEW - USDA to confirm burdensome grains supplies

CHICAGO, April 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) early on Friday is expected to confirm a burdensome supply of grains that drove Chicago Board of Trade wheat and corn futures to nearly six-month lows last week.
And, the abundant supply of soy in the United States coupled with record output this year in South America is limiting buying enthusiasm keeping soy rangebound at roughly the $9.50 per bushel level.