Major U.S. stock-indexes rose on Thursday as data pointed to a strengthening U.S. economy and the European Central Bank indicated it could prolong its stimulus program. The ECB also cut its inflation and growth forecasts for the euro zone in the wake of lower oil prices, weaker growth in China and a strengthening euro. Investors, however, were cautious ahead of the critical monthly U.S. jobs report on Friday, which may feed into the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision.

Almost all of Dow stocks in positive area (28 of 30). Top looser - Caterpillar Inc. (CAT, -1.95%). Top gainer - Intel Corporation (INTC, +2.49).

All S&P index sectors also in positive area. Top gainer - Basic materials (+1,5%).

At the moment:

Dow 16494.00 +164.00 +1.00%

S&P 500 1967.00 +20.00 +1.03%

Nasdaq 100 4284.00 +24.00 +0.56%

10 Year yield 2,18% -0,02

Oil 47.62 +1.37 +2.96%

Gold 1123.90 -9.70 -0.86%