Dow Jones closed up 0.8%, ASX futures down ahead of market open in Sydney

The Dow Jones rose 0.8% to finish the trading day up 262 points to close at 34,870 points.

Earlier, markets in Europe had strong sessions as London's FTSE and Germany's DAX finished the trading day higher.

Asian markets are set to open lower with ASX futures down 35 points (-0.5%) ahead of the open in Sydney.

The Australian dollar is stronger against the major currencies and is buying 73.72 US cents.

Gold is trading at US$ Iron Ore per ounce with copper up 0.13% to US$4.23 per pound.

WTI Crude oil is selling for US$69.28 per barrel while Brent oil is higher at US$72.66 per barrel.