The market for initial public offerings is thawing, but retail investors shouldn't expect to find access to this notoriously exclusive market any easier -- though a few back doors are open for those who know where to look.

U.S. stock futures slip after markets registered advances in nine of the last 11 sessions, with the housing market returning to the spotlight as Home Depot reports signs of stabilization. Target and Exxon Mobil also merit pre-open attention from investors.

Stocks expected to move significantly in trading on Tuesday include CapitalSource, Exxon Mobil, Home Depot, Jacobs, NeurogesX, Pacific Sunwear and UBS.

Among the companies whose shares are expected to see active trade in Monday’s session are the European banks as well as CIT, CNA, Dean Foods, Encore Acquisition, Ford, Humana, Loews, Nice, Terra and U.S. Bancorp.

Here are five overseas plays to help your portfolio make better use of your time.

NOTE TO EDITORS: The Following Is an Investment Opinion Being Issued by WallStSense.com