Services sector

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) said its services index rose to 52.6 last month from 52 in November 2011. Figures over 50 indicates expansion.

The ISM survey of US services covers industries ranging from utilities and retailing, to healthcare and finance.

The ADP National Employment Report's December 2011 job tally rose by 325,000 - compared to 204,000 in November. The number was almost double the 178,000 estimated by economists.