Dec 16: Taper talk, Japan aid pledge, Singapore retail sales

Singapore share prices closed 0.23% higher on Friday, in line with most regional markets. Singapore's blue-chip Straits Times Index (STI) rose 6.98 points to end at 3,066.02. Here are some stocks and factors that could affect the market this Monday morning:

Steady economic gains, including a sharp fall in the unemployment rate, should stir the US Federal Reserve to begin trimming its stimulus programme at its policy meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday pledged US$20 billion of aid and loans to Southeast Asia, as he looks to drive exports and bolster friendships in the region.

Singapore retail sales fell 9.4% in October 2013 compared to a year ago due to lower motor vehicles sales. In September, retail sales fell 5.9% compared to a year ago.