Regional markets

Merval rises in early trade

The Merval benchmark index rose 0.82 percent in early trade, closing at 3,418.87 points, registering a 4.5 percent raise so far December and a 46.7 lift in 2010.

Meanwhile, the US currency traded for $4/$3.97, remaining unchanged compared to Friday's close price.

As for the Brazilian stocks markets, the Bovespa index rose 1.15 percent and closed at 69,126.32 points.