MARKETS SPECTATOR: Energy watch

US markets are flat to modestly higher in late Thursday trade following stronger-than-expected core durable goods data and unemployment claims that met market expectations. Tech giant Apple delivered 4Q sales of $36 billion, beating estimates.

The S&P 500 is the top performer, up 0.16 per cent while both the Dow Jones Industrial Average and NASDAQ are flat on the session.

Looking ahead to Australian trade and it's looking like a pretty flat start to the session following yesterday's modest gains. SPI futures are calling the index to open a couple of points firmer around the 4512 mark, just above the psychologically important 4500 level.

Ever since the October interest rate cut, we've seen the domestic market outperforming. And this week hasn't been any different with the local index down 1.15 per cent versus a fall of 1.55 per cent for the S&P 500. There have been plenty of signs of real buying too as institutional investors look to put money into the market on the dips, which is an encouraging sign.

So in terms of trade today, we should see a bit of interest in the energy and healthcare sectors as they were the best performers during the US session. Although, overall it's likely to be a relatively quiet session as there is little in terms of economic data due in the region.

On the corporate front, the steady flow of news will continue with Macquarie Group due to release their interim earnings figures. Analysts are tipping the group will post a 26.6 per cent rise in cash profit to $386 million.

Elsewhere, AMP is due to release third quarter funds under management while ResMed will release quarterly sales data. On the AGM calendar Toll Holdings and Carsales.com.au are due to convene today.