OPEC Ministers Likely to Keep Output Steady

With oil prices still above $60 a barrel, OPEC ministers probably will keep output steady when they meet this week to set strategies for the spring and early summer.

A warmer-than-usual winter in the U.S. has built inventories, which should drive prices lower. But worries about supply disruptions from such countries as Iran are keeping prices high.

That adds to the quandary as the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries meets Wednesday to look ahead to the traditionally low-demand season sandwiched between winter and the summer driving season.

From the Associated Press

The Week Ahead

Today

* The Commerce Department reports on factory orders for January.

Tuesday

* The Federal Reserve reports on consumer credit for January.

* The Labor Department reports revised data on fourth-quarter productivity and costs.

* Earnings reports expected from Albertsons Inc., Kroger Co. and Pixar Animation Studios.

Wednesday

* Earnings reports expected from Gemstar-TV Guide International Inc. and TiVo Inc.

Thursday

* The Commerce Department reports on international trade for January.

* Quarterly earnings report expected from DreamWorks Animation SKG.

Friday

* The Labor Department reports on February employment.