Pre-Market Outlook: U.S. Futures Higher on Monday

Futures contracts for the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and Dow Jones Industrial Average are pointing to a higher U.S. opening on Monday, following strong Asian stocks. Asian shares rose to their highest levels in nearly three years after a Friday report showed stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs growth. The news temporarily distracted investors over Japan's ongoing problems with its nuclear facilities, with the day's focus on optimism about the global economy. Japan's Nikkei and China's Shanghai Composite Index both finished higher. Southwest Airlines LUV grounded more than 75 Boeing BA airplanes this past weekend after a plane was forced to make an emergency landing. It was found to have significant weakening, and the airline grounded some of the fleet, while returning others to the air. Blockbuster is expected to be the subject of attention, with several investors including Dish Networks DISH and Carl Icahn possibly bidding for the bankrupt retailer. Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero announced this weekend that he will not run for reelection in May. Commodities are mostly higher today, with gold, crude oil, silver, and copper all making upside moves.