The NASDAQ index futures traded higher during the overnight session in response to favorable Chinese PMI readings and perhaps from the fresh merger and buyout news. There remains concern regarding the overall outlook for the global economy, which traders say is likely to remain the primary driving force for equity prices. Additionally, the NASDAQ could be undermined in the wake of slack U.S. August Auto Sales figures that will be released later today. Traders also mention that volumes have been low this week which seems to suggest a lack of buying interest interested in picking up cheaper valuations in the market.