By MarketWatch MARKETWATCH FRONT PAGE U.S. stock futures rose on Wednesday, along with oil and other commodity prices, ahead of a statement from the Federal Reserve that’s expected to signal no major changes in monetary policy. See full story. U.S. consumer prices rise 0.4% in November U.S. inflation rises in November as energy prices surge, according to Labor Department data. See full story. Current account gap widens in Q3 The U.S. balance of payments deficit widens sharply in the third quarter to $108 billion from $98 billion in the second quarter. See full story. Housing starts rebound in Nov. New construction on U.S. housing units rebounds in November after dropping sharply in the previous month. See full story. Mortgage applications rose slightly last week: MBA Applications for mortgages rose a seasonally adjusted 0.3% last week, compared with the week before, the Mortgage Bankers Association reports. See full story. MARKETWATCH COMMENTARY Barclays President Bob Diamond chooses his words carefully these days. He doesn’t offer a thought or an opinion that hasn’t been considered and rehearsed. See full story. MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE At U.S. workplaces, the holidays just aren't what they used to be. Companies are scaling back on holiday parties, if they're having one at all, and the annual holiday bonus -- a Christmas tradition for some workers -- is no longer so traditional.

Source