WHEAT THINS: Wheat futures extended this month's decline as traders returned from the Christmas break. Wheat fell 2.4 percent in thin trading, taking this month's decline to 10 percent.

METALS EDGE HIGHER: Copper logged the biggest gain as the dollar weakened against the euro and a group of other currencies.

OIL JUMPS: Oil advanced after a report showed that the U.S. housing market was maintaining its recovery, boosting the outlook for economic growth and increased energy usage.