The markets may get off to a good start this morning. The techs could rise on news that Dell Computer says its demand is improving. There is also speculation that the U.S. Federal Reserve may cut rates at its next meeting to stave off a possible double dip recession. In earnings news, Comcast reported that it earned US$75.6 million in its latest quarter.

Traders are shrugging off any concerns they may have over Brazil, after the left-wing candidate, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, won the country’s presidency in an election run-off.

It was reported that average weekly earnings in August were up 0.3% from July. Most industries and all provinces recorded small earnings increases in August. Compared with August 2001, average weekly earnings were up 1.6%.

Markets are up strongly across Europe today. The Dell news is boosting the fortunes of chip stocks and electronics makers in Europe too. Traders are ignoring the news that German business confidence fell to a nine-month lowin October. The FTSE is up 71 points to 4122. The CAC 40 has gained 86 points to 3143. The DAX has jumped 120 points to 3222.

Overnight in Asia, stocks also had a stronger session. Markets got a boost from stronger than expected profits reported at Sony. And, the yen fell after the government indicated that it wants a weaker currency. The Nikkei gained 31 points on the day to close at 8757. And, the Hang Seng added 131 points to finish at 9854.

In earnings news today, Apex Silver Mines reported a loss of $2.3 million for the third quarter of 2002, compared with a loss of $1.8 million in 2001.

World Heart Corp. says that it expects third quarter operating losses, including amortization and depreciation, of approximately $9.4 million will compare favorably with the $13.4 million and $11.2 million reported for the same period last year, and the second quarter this year respectively.

Sico posted net earnings for the third quarter of $14.1 million, compared to net earnings of $8.2 million for the same period in 2001.