Stocks set for modest gains as futures rise

Stock futures are pointing to a higher opening Monday after members of the Group of 20 nations pledged to cut budget deficits.

The modest gains come ahead of a big week of domestic economic data as well, culminating with the key monthly jobs report due out Friday. Investors will want to see private sector job growth because any signs of hiring would likely add confidence that the economy is improving. Economic reports in recent months have painted a mixed picture about the pace of a recovery.

That has led some leaders to push for new stimulus measures to bolster growth, though a jump in government spending would make it difficult to control deficits.

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