Markets around the world surged on the speculation that central banks will increase stimulus in reaction to the recent tumultuous financial markets. Particularly European markets improved significantly off word that ECB President Mario Draghi aims to further quantitative easing, expanding the bond buying programs and potentially moving into new asset classes. U.S. Existing home sales soared 14.7 percent, the largest monthly jump ever recorded.

"This record increase is a substantial rebound from lackluster November housing figures and demonstrates the strong demand for houses driven by a tight labor market. Oil advanced with global markets, increasing over 5 percent, comfortably back above $30, mitigating some of the worst fears with oil prices", says Voya Global Perspectives.