Pre-Market: 5 stocks to watch; Q3 GDP data eyed

Markets are likely make a flat opening tracking mixed global cues. The early indicator, SGX Nifty was trading at 6,350 up 11 points at 0830 hrs.

The government will unveil data on gross domestic product (GDP) for Q3 December 2013 after trading hours today

The S&P 500 closed at a record on Thursday and ended in positive territory for the year after Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen said harsh weather seems to be to behind recent US economic softness.

That gave some relief to investors who supported the view that heavy snowstorms and unusually cold weather - and not worsening fundamentals - were to blame for weak US employment, retail sales and other data.

The advance lifted the S&P 500 above its 2013 year-end closing level of 1,848.36, which has served as resistance in recent sessions.

Asian stocks were steady on Friday, tracking gains on Wall Street after US Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen's comments reiterated her confidence in the US economy. Yellen's testimony to a Senate committee helped the S&P 500 shrug off fears of rising tension in Ukraine and Russia and close at a record high.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan held steady, while Australian shares were up 0.1%.

STOCKS TO WATCH

Shipping stocks will be in action after Shipping Corp announced hiked. European Freight rates by $200/teu from March 1.

Tata Power will be in focus on plans to sell 30% stake in Indonesian coal block.

Tech Mahindra and United Spirits will be in focus as the stocks will be included in the Nifty from March 28.

Financial Technologies (FTIL) announced on Thursday it was setting up a committee to find a strategic partner and also to divest stake in its various ventures, including 24 per cent in the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX).

Bosch will be in action after 19.2% drop in Q4 net profit.