Treasury prices are slightly higher this morning amidst several overnight stories from overseas.  The most noteworthy included a surprise announcement from the Bank of Japan that it plans to increase asset purchases to help stimulate its economy, as well as news that Moody's cut the credit ratings of several European countries. 

Also in the news, Italy's borrowing costs dipped after successful debt auctions.  In US economic news, the headline Jan retail sales report showed a disappointing 0.4% increase vs expectations of a +.7% increase.  However, this was offset by a better than expected results in the retail sales ex autos and gas that showed a .6% increase vs .5% expected. 

Currently, the 10yr yield is at 1.957% (2.00% Monday) and the 2-10 yield spread is at 167bps, 6bps flatter since Friday morning.