Stocks poised to advance with labor market in the spotlight

U.S. stocks are set for a higher open Thursday. The focus this morning is on key data about the labor market. Weekly initial and continuing jobless claims data are due out before the bell, with both expected to show a continued trend of declines in job losses.

For now, Wednesday's positive momentum, spurred by several heavyweight upgrades, is poised to continue as President Obama prepares to accept the Nobel Peace Prize.

More here: Before the bell: Futures edge higher ahead of jobs data