1.   Firmer European bond markets and a stable dollar lent the market some support.

2.   In the Kansas City Value Line, stock-index futures rose partly on firmer bonds and expiration-related trading, said Kansas City trader Paul Dow.

3.   ITALIAN stocks surged, with Eni SpA climbing, as investors were encouraged by firmer bonds and gains in U.S. and European shares.

4.   Shares fell even with bonds firmer throughout the session.

5.   Stocks prices moved higher Wednesday, fueled by a rally in high-technology issues, signs of a steadier dollar in Europe and a firmer bond market.

6.   Blue chip stocks shot higher near the close Thursday, wrapping up a lackluster session in which investors reacted to individual earnings reports and firmer bonds.

7.   Firmer bond prices provided a favorable backdrop.

8.   Stocks inched higher at the opening bell Friday, assisted by firmer bond prices and a slightly better dollar.

9.   Stocks were continuing to press higher in a holiday rally, and they were getting some help from a slightly firmer bond market.

10.   Before Thursday, the DAX had risen by a total of almost three percent in the previous two sessions thanks to dollar stabilization and a firmer bond market.