COMPANIES. Amazon cuts robotics jobs. Amazon eliminated at least ONE HUNDRED corporate roles in its robotics division. The company says the move is part of a review of advanced technology teams. The robotics unit develops automated systems for fulfillment centers across the United States. Amazon states robotics remains STRATEGIC, even as it restructures teams. The cuts follow earlier workforce reductions this year. THE ECONOMY. Services activity hits FIFTY SIX POINT ONE. The Institute for Supply Management says its non manufacturing index rose to FIFTY SIX POINT ONE in February, up from FIFTY THREE POINT EIGHT in January. Economists expected a lower reading. Any number above FIFTY signals expansion. Business activity and new orders increased. The data indicates continued MOMENTUM in the services sector. INTERNATIONAL. Brazil advances European Union and MERCOSUL trade pact. Brazil’s Senate approved the agreement after more than TWENTY YEARS of negotiations. Argentina and Uruguay have ratified it. Paraguay still needs a lower house vote. The agreement covers tariffs and market access. MARKETS. United States stock futures edge lower as investors track Middle East tensions and oil prices. Volatility remains ELEVATED.