We still don't know what happened in the 700MHz auction, but Verizon's going full steam ahead with its open-network policy, holding a press conference today to detail the "Any Apps, Any Device" plan announced back in November.

ENGADGET: Verizon opens up about "Any Apps, Any Device" Mobile

The Conservative party has also opted to keep an "open mind" on the report, with the promise of unveiling its own policy on higher education later in the year.

BBC: Students could face big fee rise

Also, the market began working its way higher again after a policy statement following a U.S. Federal Open Market Committee meeting Wednesday showed that the Fed intends to stick with its accommodative monetary policy, said Sean Lusk, gold and silver analyst with Ironbeam.

FORBES: Comex Gold Rebounds On Easing Prospects, Indian Demand, Technical Factors