The US markets closed higher as signs of economic improvement were seen in the latest economic news.  The Dow was up by 168 points or 2.1% at 8185, the  S&P500 was up 18 points or 2.1% at 873 and the Nasdaq was up 38 points or 2.2%  at 1711.Â
Gold and oil both were higher as the US dollar weakened. Â Gold was up by $6.90 at $900.50/oz and crude oil was up $1.05 Â at $50.73/bbl.
