Major U.S. stock-indexes rallied for the third straight day, led by sharp gains in energy stocks, as a rebound in crude oil prices boosted sentiment heading into the Christmas holidays. Oil prices were up after U.S. inventories fell, but still hovered near multi-year lows as oversupply concerns continued to weigh.

U.S. stock markets will have a shortened session on Thursday and stay closed on Friday for Christmas. Trading volumes are expected to remain relatively light through the holiday period.

Most of all Dow stocks in positive area (27 of 30). Top looser - NIKE, Inc. (NKE, -2,63%). Top gainer - Chevron Corporation (CVX, +3.20%).

All S&P sectors in positive area. Top gainer - Basic Materials (+3,9%).

At the moment:

Dow 17477.00 +120.00 +0.69%

S&P 500 2051.50 +15.50 +0.76%

Nasdaq 100 4607.75 +16.75 +0.36%

Oil 37.60 +1.46 +4.04%

Gold 1069.00 -5.10 -0.47%

U.S. 10yr 2.26 +0.02