Stocks set to advance at the open on economic hopes

U.S. stocks were set for a higher open to start the trading for the month of August Monday morning, seemingly continuing July's strong performance. Investors reacted to news about manufacturing improving or at least stabilizing around the globe, meaning the end of the global recession may be in sight. The news boosted commodities and world markets. In the U.S., expectation of positive sales results for car manufacturers added to optimism.

More here: Before the bell: Stock futures advance on economic hopes