US stock futures rise as fear wanes over Greece

US stock futures rise as fear wanes over Greece

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock futures rose today after the government issued a positive report on the number of people filing for unemployment benefits, while fears eased in Europe over the deal to stave off a Greek financial collapse.

The Labor Department said new unemployment benefit applications held steady last week at their lowest point since March 2008, a sign that the job market is improving. Applications have been falling since October.

Dow Jones industrial average futures gained 22 points to 12,938, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 1.8 points to 1,357.70. The Nasdaq composite index futures gained 6.5 points to 2,585.25.

Meanwhile, in Europe, Greece moved ahead with reforms demanded in return for its second bailout in as many years, and a measure of business confidence in Germany rose more than expected. World markets were mixed, however, as oil prices hit nine-month highs and tensions rose in the Persian Gulf over Iran’s nuclear program.