Before the Bell: Six things you need to know
*Political polls released over the weekend in Greece shows increased support for that country's conservative party which supports the austerity measures required for it remain in the Eurozone. That in-turn has given European stocks a boost on Monday with optimism likely continuing for Canadian markets.
*Spain's banking sector remains a prime concern. Europe's fourth largest economy is struggling to keep its head above water as Standard & Poor's cut its ratings on five Spanish banks last Friday and warned the country is headed into a double-dip recession. Investors' fears are on high as Spain could be forced to seek an international financial bailout.
*Among to the financial calamity that would ensue if Greece was to leave the Eurozone: there's serious concern that European mortgage costs could rise and the availability of home loans could tighten significantly.
*Asian bourses reacted positively on Monday to developments in Greece with most rising modestly. The Eurozone debt crisis remains a serious concern however, with Spain figuring prominently.
*On the economic data calendar for today, investors will be eyeing an Italian bond auction of €2.5 billion-€3.5 billion of a new series of zero coupon notes, and €500 million to €750 million of inflation-linked bonds.
*Monday is expected to be fairly quiet overall with U.S. markets closed for Memorial Day and several European nations observing the Whit Monday holiday.