U.S. stock futures advanced after earnings at companies including Caterpillar Inc.  exceeded analysts’ projections.

Caterpillar, the largest construction and mining-equipment maker, rallied 3,6% after its full-year profit forecast also beat estimates amid higher demand for shovels and trucks.

Benchmark gauges rose yesterday, sending the Dow to the highest level since May, as the Federal Reserve signaled low rates through at least late 2014 and didn’t rule out bond purchases to bolster the economy.

Orders for U.S. durable goods rose more than forecast in December, led by demand for aircraft, autos and business equipment that signals further manufacturing gains. Claims for U.S. jobless benefits rose last week, another report showed, reflecting the usual volatility around holidays that has masked an improvement in the labor market.