The major theme of today’s trading will be the response of the energy sector in the aftermath of Hurricane Gustav. Index futures point to strong openings as crude oil and natural gas continue to sell off after posting losses during special trading sessions over the weekend and Labor Day holiday.

The storm, which barreled through the heart of Gulf Coast oil production and refining, failed to intensify as strongly as forecasters feared. Crude traded below $107 overnight, hitting 5-month lows. The dollar hit 6-month highs against the euro overnight, trading briefly over 0.69 Euros to the dollar. Commodities across the board are weaker today.

Shares of Lehman Brothers (LEH) are bid 7% higher this morning at $17.25 as the Korean state-owned Korea Development Bank confirmed reports that it is mulling an investment in the troubled broker-dealer. Financials in general are expected to fare well