Stocks eke out modest gains as focus turns to US earnings

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks edged mostly higher in early trading as first-quarter company earnings got off to a mixed start.

Aluminum maker Alcoa sank 5 percent after reporting weaker than expected revenue.

European stock markets were steady Tuesday as traders awaited the next set of U.S. corporate earnings statement.

Oil prices will also be a key point of interest in financial markets ahead of further U.S. inventory data and this Sunday's meeting of oil producers in Doha, Qatar.

Benchmark U.S. crude oil was up 36 cents at $40.73 a barrel while the international standard, Brent, rose 48 cents to $43.31.

ANALYST TAKE: "U.S stock markets are poised to open slightly higher on Tuesday as traders eye API inventory data and a few Fed speeches throughout the session," said Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at OANDA.