[SAJ]

Didn't seem to help much -- the Ruble fell bigtime late last week and Monday's opening looks to be lower still.

The 'war', if such occurs in Ukraina and/or Crimea, is not apt to be a major mkt mover worldwide. To the practical observer, Putin can take over or control Ukraina, effectively, whenever he likes. The more interesting question is: will Ukraina partition itself into two nations with the dividing line being, of course, the Dniestr.

Remember: this is "central bank week" plus the ridiculous non-farm payroll burlesque comedy. The CBs of Canada and Australia won't do squat. The ECB, aka Dildoes United, if they offer any changes at all, will content themselves with cosmetic ones. The BLS will, as usual, pluck a "jobs" number out of its arse, then quietly revise the figures lower next week.

1800 is a possibility this week on the SP. Traders should consider a **light** position long the March SP puts, perhaps the 1830 strike, for a quick hit.

Crude and the products rate to stay well bid all week on the Russian/Ukrainan uncertainty. Natural gas will be bid early on this week, but likely will tail off toward week-end as the last major US cold wave starts to vanish.

Good trading to all, and FReegards!

[SevenofNine]

I hate to say it I think you are so right

[MeneMeneTekelUpharsin]

Nothing which should affect the markets these days actually affects the markets. Only those things which can superficially be blamed for affecting the markets affect the markets so key players can make a profit matter. Someone behind the scenes can push the right buttons to drive prices in the direction they wish for them to go when a superficial headline is available.

Dow futures down -138 at this posting.

[expat_panama]

"central bank week" plus the ridiculous non-farm payroll burlesque comedy."

Whatever it is it's now worse & getting worser.  Trying to decide if I want to just go back to bed or hide under it.