Major U.S. stock-indexes little changed on Thursday, a day ahead of a crucial employment report that would show whether the economy is strong enough to absorb an interest rate hike. A growing number of U.S. Federal Reserve officials have argued for higher rates as the labor market remains solid and inflation inches towards the central bank's 2% target.

Dow stocks mixed (15 in positive area, 15 in negative area). Top gainer - The Home Depot, Inc. (HD, +1.38%). Top loser - American Express Company (AXP, -3.76%).

S&P sectors also mixed. Top gainer - Basic Materials (+0.9%). Top loser - Healthcare (-0.7%).

At the moment:

Dow 18175.00 -25.00 -0.14%

S&P 500 2154.00 +0.75 +0.03%

Nasdaq 100 4871.50 -2.00 -0.04%

Oil 50.40 +0.57 +1.14%

Gold 1253.90 -14.70 -1.16%

U.S. 10yr 1.74 +0.02