The ECB is likely to keep interest rates on hold on Thursday but may offer clues on its policy path for next year with updated forecasts likely to present a grim outlook for the euro zone economy in 2013..
"The market will be looking for signs in terms of (ECB) policy responses in early 2013," a trader said.
German Bund futures were up 5 ticks on the day at 143.33.
Financial markets have been sensitive to any comments on progress of US talks to avert a fiscal crisis and US Treasuries firmed in Asian trading with little signs of progress in Congressional talks on Wednesday.
Before the ECB meeting, investors were expected to easily take up 3 to 4 billion euros of French supply. The bonds have generally benefited from investors seeking some pick-up over Germany whose yields are at ultra-low levels.