• According to the former Fed chairman, Alan Greenspan, the probability of recession in the US caused by high-risk mortgage problems is about one half to one third. The most probable alternative is economic growth retardation. The worst part of the mortgage crisis is gone, unless there are any secondary effects.
• The US Non-manufacturing Index (ISM) dropped to 54.8 points, slightly below expectations. The adjacent indexes were rising, which is perceived positively by the market.
• The Slovak prime minister Fico assured that the government will reach this year's budget deficit target level of 2.9 percent of the GDP. Should a revision indicate a higher deficit, the cabinet will lower the expenses.
• July Eurozone retail sales rose by 0.1 percent m/m, less than expected by the market. The y/y increase is one percent.