International markets were fairly quiet overnight, with investors seemingly taking a breather after a strong run higher and ahead of the US reporting season.

In Europe the FTSE shed just three points (-0.1%) whilst the CAC lost 0.3% and the DAX added 0.3%.

Stateside, the Dow Jones shed 17 points (-0.2%) whilst the S&P 500 gained 0.1% and the Nasdaq put on 0.7%.

Investors also held their breath ahead of a bailout vote in Slovakia, the 17^th and final country to act on expansion of the eurozone's rescue fund.

The deliberations extended past the close of US trade and the measures were ultimately rejected but the result is not expected to entirely scupper the plans.

The euro gained ground against the greenback overnight ahead of the vote in Slovakia, whilst the Kiwi dollar lost ground after government financial statements showed the budget deficit widened in the year through June.

Crude oil capped its longest rally this year amid surging US gasoline prices. The black gold added 40 US cents (+0.5%) to lock in its fifth consecutive advance.

Gold and copper didn't fare so well, shedding 0.6% and 2.3% respectively.

Today's session will bring us important data in the form of Westpac Consumer sentiment (10:30am, AEDT) and home loan figures (11:30am, AEDT).

Finally, we will hear from RBA assistant governor Debelle, commencing at 3:00pm, AEDT.