European stocks are falling today, pressured by disappointing news about the US economy, as well as concerns about what is happening in the eurozone.

Right now, concerns about the US economic recovery are high, with GDP numbers missing estimates, and with jobless claims on the rise again. Thanks to US data, European stocks are lower, and the situation isn't being helped by continued confusion about what's next for Greece.

European stock indices are lower today. The CAC 40, IBEX, DAX and FTSE 100 are all lower, and the Stoxx 600 has dropped. The news is also brining US stocks lower in early trading. 

Disappointing US data is weighing on equities, sending stocks lower today. US GDP data came in at 2.8% growth, when many analysts were expecting 3% growth. The news has put a damper on equities, and stocks are starting out lower.

Additionally, the news that jobless claims in the US are on the rise again is not helping. With all of this disappointment, it is little surprise that stocks are down. Indeed, US stocks are lower after seeing a good start yesterday that turned into losses.

US stocks are down, following European equities. European indices, including the FTSE 100, are lower today on the news out of the US, and on concerns about Greece. US stocks are heading lower on uncertainty and risk aversion. 

The Dow is surging higher today, heading toward 12,800 today, reaching highs not seen since May 2008. Good earnings data, and the prospect of low interest rates until 2014, are boosting stocks today.

US stocks are getting a boost as the Federal Reserve indicates that another round of stimulus is coming, and as commodities rise in response. Additionally, earnings have been great. Apple especially came in with great earnings. With this good news, and with risk appetite on the rise, it is little surprise that US stocks are doing well.

Spread bets and CFDs on the stock market should also consider that most Asian stocks ended higher today, and European stocks, including those on the FTSE 100 index, ended higher as well. A global stock rally is underway, and the US is in the thick of it. 

Gold prices are surging today, heading higher as many see quantitative easing in the future for the US economy. The Federal Reserve, headed by Chairman Ben Bernanke, announced that it would keep rates low until 2014. Additionally, there is speculation that more easing could be coming.

As a result of this expected inflation, gold prices are on the rise. Gold prices have hit $1,728 an ounce, and there is talk of $1,800 an ounce, especially with the expectation that more stimulus is on the way.

The US dollar is weighed down against the euro in spot forex trading, and the commodities and equities are higher today. Spread betting and contracts for differences on commodities should also consider that oil prices are higher, topping $100 a barrel again.