January 18, 2019

The S&P 500 gained 1.3% on Friday, boosted by trade talk optimism and waning concerns about the U.S. economic outlook. Friday's gains extended the benchmark index's weekly gain to 2.9%.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.4%), the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%), and the Russell 2000 (+1.0%) also extended their weekly gains to 3.0%, 2.7%, and 2.4%, respectively.

Within the S&P 500, all 11 sectors finished higher with the cyclical energy (+1.9%), industrials (+1.9%), financials (+1.7%), and materials (+1.6%) groups leading the broader market higher.

January 17, 2019

  U.S. futures give back Wednesday's gains, as disappointing corporate results and lingering concerns over U.S.-China trade relations dampen investor sentiment. The S&P 500 futures trade 13 points, or 0.5%, below fair value. Morgan Stanley (MS 41.85, -2.64, -5.9%) followed up yesterday's better than expected results reported by Goldman Sachs... Read More

January 16, 2019

    The S&P 500 gained 0.2% on Wednesday, as strong earnings from Bank of America (BAC 28.45, +1.90, +7.2%) and Goldman Sachs (GS 197.08, +17.17, +9.5%) helped keep the rally going. The benchmark index was up as much as 0.6%, but succumbed to selling pressure... Read More

January 15, 2019

The S&P 500 gained 1.1% on Tuesday, as a shift to high-growth stocks helped the market rally past several earnings disappointments. The ability of the market to rally on bad news fed into a belief that the bad news was priced in already during the December rout, which in turn fueled hope that bargain-hunting efforts will keep the 2019 rally try going.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.7%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 1.7%, and the Russell 2000 gained 0.9%.

January 14, 2019

    The S&P 500 lost 0.5% on Monday, pulling back from a three-week winning streak. The benchmark index never traded in positive territory but it did cut its intraday losses in half. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.4%) also finished off its... Read More

January 11, 2019

  The S&P 500 (-0.01%) finished just a hair below its flat line on Friday. The benchmark index never traded in positive territory but did close at its session high. It also finished the week with a gain of 2.5%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (unch), the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%),... Read More

January 10, 2019

  The S&P 500 gained 0.5% on Thursday, extending its winning streak to five straight sessions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.5%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.4%, and the Russell 2000 gained 0.5%. 10 of the 11 S&P 500 sectors finished higher with real estate (+1.6%), utilities (+1.4%), and industrials... Read More

January 9, 2019

  The S&P 500 gained 0.4% on Wednesday, helped by softening trade tensions, easing anxieties over U.S. monetary policy, and rebounding oil prices ($52.20/bbl, +$2.54, +5.1%). The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.4%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.9%, and the Russell 2000 gained 0.9%. span... Read More

January 8, 2019

The S&P 500 rose 1.0% on Tuesday, notching its third straight day of gains and its fifth in the last six sessions. The benchmark index did succumb to some early selling pressure, though, surrendering an early 1.2% gain. However, the wave of improved investor... Read More

January 7, 2019

  The S&P 500 gained 0.7% on Monday, securing its fourth day of gains in the last five sessions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.4%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 1.3%, and the Russell 2000 outperformed with a gain of 1.8%. The major averages opened the session to some tepid... Read More

January 4, 2019

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January 3, 2019

  The S&P 500 dropped 2.5% on Thursday, as a revenue warning from Apple (AAPL 142.19, -15.73, -10.0%) and weak manufacturing data stoked worries about a slowdown in global economic growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.8%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 3.0%, and the Russell 2000 lost 1.8%. Nine of... Read More

January 2, 2019

Wall Street finished slightly higher on Wednesday despite global economic growth concerns and volatility extending their reach into 2019. The S&P 500 managed to squeeze out a gain of 0.1% after being down as much as 1.6% in the opening minutes. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%), the Nasdaq... Read More

December 31, 2018

  The trading session is over and so is the tumultuous 2018 that gripped the stock market. The S&P 500 (+0.9%), Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.2%), and Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%) pared yearly losses to 6.2%, 5.6%, 3.9%. The Russell 2000 (+0.8%), for its... Read More

December 28, 2018

  The S&P 500 lost 0.1% on Friday in what was another whipsaw day of trading that saw the S&P 500 up as much 1.3% at its high and down as much as 0.6% at its low. The benchmark index finished a remarkably volatile, and history-setting, week with a gain... Read More

December 27, 2018

  Thursday's stock market featured another tale of two sessions. The bulk of the trading day was marred by an inclination to sell into strength, which fed into worries that this market had more downside to come. The last part of the trading day, however, featured a huge rally from... Read More

December 26, 2018

    The S&P 500 rallied 5.0% on Wednesday from what many believed to be extremely oversold conditions on a short-term basis. Rebounding oil prices ($46.13/bbl, +$3.45, +8.1%), strong holiday sales, and some short covering helped drive the S&P 500 to its best... Read More

December 24, 2018

  The S&P 500 fell 2.7% on Monday, as follow-through selling and unsettling developments in Washington served to further dampen investor sentiment. Trading action was cut short with the stock market closing early ahead of Christmas Day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.9%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 2.2%,... Read More

December 21, 2018

  The S&P 500 fell 2.1% on Friday, as uncertainty surrounding a host of issues, which included politics and trade, continued to provide a justification to reduce risk. Friday's decline pushed the benchmark index to a new yearly low of 2408.12 and a weekly loss of 7.1%. The Dow... Read More

December 20, 2018

The S&P 500 fell 1.6% on Thursday, as ongoing concerns over trade, politics, and economic growth added to worries over a Fed policy mistake. For the month, the benchmark index is now down 10.6%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-2.0%), Nasdaq Composite (-1.6%), and the Russell 2000 (-1.7%) extend... Read More

December 19, 2018

    The S&P 500 dropped 1.5% on Wednesday in what was a tale of two trading sessions.  The first part of the day was governed by a sense of hope that the Federal Reserve would provide the stock market with a dovish-minded... Read More

December 18, 2018

  The S&P 500 finished flat on Tuesday in what was another roller-coaster session, driven by shifts in sector leadership, a 7.2% plunge in oil prices to $46.57 per barrel, and lingering uncertainty surrounding trade, monetary policy, the economic growth outlook, and the budget battle in Washington to keep the... Read More

December 17, 2018

  The S&P 500 lost 2.1% on Monday, as uncertainty surrounding a host of issues continued to drive an inclination to sell into strength and to reduce risk exposure to stocks. The benchmark index (2545.94) ran into resistance at the 2600 level amid a... Read More

December 14, 2018

  The S&P 500 fell 1.9% on Friday to extend its monthly loss to 5.8%. Friday's sell-off was a function of poor sentiment driven by global growth concerns and a continuation of weak price action.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.0%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 2.3%, and the Russell... Read More

December 13, 2018

  The U.S. major indices finished mixed on Thursday, as ongoing uncertainty surrounding global issues kept many buyers on the sidelines. The S&P 500 finished flat, the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.4%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.3%. In particular, the continued weakness from the Dow Jones Transportation Average... Read More

December 12, 2018

The S&P 500 rose 0.5% on Wednesday, although it gave up a good chunk of its gains in the afternoon after trading as high as 1.9% intraday. Optimism that trade relations between the U.S. and China were progressing fueled the rally effort,... Read More

December 11, 2018

The S&P 500 finished flat on Tuesday, squandering two intraday rally efforts, as headline volatility surrounding politics and trade contributed to another day of whipsaw trading action. The benchmark index traded as high as 1.4% shortly after the start of trading, but surrendered the entirety of that gain and was down... Read More

December 10, 2018

  The S&P 500 gained 0.2% on Monday in what was yet another volatile day of trading on Wall Street. The benchmark index overcame a loss of 1.9% intraday despite the uncertainty surrounding trade, growth prospects, the path of interest rates, and geopolitics.  Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

December 7, 2018

The S&P 500 lost 2.3% on Friday to close a losing week (-4.6%) on a sour note. The major averages fumbled an early morning rally effort and steadily retreated throughout the day to finish near session lows. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.2%, the Nasdaq Composite lost... Read More

December 6, 2018

  The S&P 500 lost 0.2%, but was able to fight back after being down as much as 2.9% earlier in the session.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.3% after being down as many as 785 points or 3.1%.  The Nasdaq Composite added... Read More

December 5, 2018

Reminder: The stock market and Treasury market will be closed today, December 5, in a National Day of Mourning for the late President George H.W. Bush... Read More

December 4, 2018

    The S&P 500 tumbled 3.2% on Tuesday, catalyzed by waning optimism in trade negotiations between the U.S. and China and concern over future economic growth, which was signaled by the... Read More

December 3, 2018

November 30, 2018

  WE ARE EXPERIENCING PHONE OUTAGES AT OUR MAIN OFFICE. TO CONTACT US PLEASE CALL 1-800-659-8044 OR EMAIL LEIGH@LEIGHBALDWIN.COM. The S&P 500 finished strong with a gain of 0.8% on Friday... Read More

November 29, 2018

    The S&P 500 trimmed this week's rally by 0.2% on Thursday with market participants shifting focus to this weekend's G-20 meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and China President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

November 28, 2018

  The S&P 500 confidently extended weekly gains by 2.3% on Wednesday after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said he sees current interest rates "just below" neutral. That proved to be a rally point because the language Mr. Powell used early last month indicated a... Read More

November 27, 2018

  The S&P 500 recouped losses to finish with a gain of 0.3% in a volatile session on Tuesday. The stock market was able to shrug off early angst caused by President Donald Trump reiterating his hard-nosed tariff stance. President Trump's comments struck concerns... Read More

November 26, 2018

The S&P 500 rebounded 1.6% on Monday, as Amazon (AMZN 1581.33, +79.27, +5.3%) and retail stocks led the broad-based advance from what many considered to be short-term oversold conditions. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.5%, the Nasdaq Composite gained 2.1%, and the Russell 2000 gained 1.2%. Reports of record online... Read More

November 23, 2018

  The S&P 500 lost 0.7% on Friday in what was a shortened, low-volume trading day on Wall Street. Friday's volatile session extended the benchmark index's weekly losses to 3.8%. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.7%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.5%, and the... Read More

November 21, 2018

    The S&P 500 found some reprieve on Wednesday with a slim gain of 0.3%, with cyclical sectors mounting a rebound effort. The benchmark index was up as much as 1.1% but fumbled most of its gains... Read More

November 20, 2018

The S&P 500 tumbled again on Tuesday with a loss of 1.8%, as economic growth concerns weighed, especially on energy, retail, and technology stocks. Tuesday's losses wiped out yearly gains for the benchmark index, which is now down 1.2% in 2018. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.2%, the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

November 19, 2018

  The S&P 500 tumbled 1.7% on Monday, as a rout in widely-held tech stocks led the broader market lower. A lack of leadership and the continued inclination to sell into strength have translated into a lack of... Read More

November 16, 2018

    [BRIEFING.COM] The S&P 500 chipped in a 0.2% gain on Friday after President Donald Trump again signaled China's desire to make a deal on trade. Disappointing guidance from chipmakers, however, kept gains in check. The Dow... Read More

November 15, 2018

  The S&P 500 gained 1.1% on Thursday to snap a five-session losing streak. U.S.-China trade optimism and strength from tech stocks, particularly Apple (AAPL 191.41, +4.61, +2.5%), contributed to the broader market overcoming its morning struggles.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.8%, the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

November 14, 2018

  The S&P 500 lost 0.8% in another volatile session on Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.8%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.9%, and the Russell 2000 lost 0.8%. Stocks rallied at the open after the October CPI reading showed consumer prices rose... Read More

November 13, 2018

  The S&P 500 coughed up a morning rebound effort to close Monday with a loss of 0.2%. The benchmark index had climbed as high as 1.0% amid early U.S.-China trade optimism, but energy stocks eventually led the broader market lower as oil prices... Read More

November 12, 2018

  The S&P 500 fell 2.0% on Monday, as Apple (AAPL 194.17, -10.30, -5.0%) and semiconductor companies dragged on the broader market. The rout in the information technology sector (-3.5%) underpinned the benchmark index's retreat below its 200-day moving average (2762.39) and wiped... Read More

November 9, 2018

    The S&P 500 lost 0.9% on Friday, with the pullback suggesting a natural consequence of an overreaction to this week's election spike. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.8%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 1.7%, and the... Read More

November 8, 2018

  The S&P 500 slipped 0.3% on Thursday on the heels of the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) decision to leave the fed funds rate unchanged as expected. The benchmark index traded slightly below its flat line leading up... Read More

November 7, 2018

The S&P 500 confidently finished with a gain of 2.1% on Wednesday with the benchmark index now up 6.4% since its close on October 29. Wednesday's advance follows the conclusion of U.S. congressional midterm elections that produced a split Congress.  The prevailing assumption in the market was that a newly divided... Read More

November 6, 2018

  The S&P 500 added 0.6% for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, as investors awaited results from the U.S. congressional midterm elections. It was a largely broad-based performance, as all 11 S&P sectors finished in positive territory. Also, the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.6%, the... Read More

November 5, 2018

  The S&P 500 gained 0.6% on a subdued Monday, as investors remained cautious ahead the U.S. congressional midterms elections on Tuesday. Technology stocks largely underperformed, but a strong showing from financial companies helped offset tech losses. Meanwhile, the tech-sensitive Nasdaq Composite lost 0.4%, though... Read More

November 2, 2018

  Stocks fell on Friday following conflicting U.S.-China trade reports and softer-than-expected sales guidance from Apple (AAPL 207.48, -14.74, -6.6%). Futures rallied overnight on a Bloomberg report indicating U.S. President Trump asked his cabinet to draft a trade deal, but stocks eventually fell into negative territory after... Read More

November 1, 2018

The S&P 500 added 1.1% for a third straight day of gains on Thursday, as a favorable trade-related tweet by U.S. President Trump lifted stocks from their early downtrend. The benchmark index briefly turned negative in the early going before comfortably trading in positive territory for most of the session. The... Read More

October 31, 2018

    The S&P 500 advanced 1.1% on Wednesday, securing a second straight day of gains to end a bruising October with a monthly loss of 6.9%. Mega-cap technology stocks were in... Read More

October 30, 2018

    The S&P 500 gained 1.6% in Tuesday's session, in which it traded mostly in positive territory with all 11 S&P sectors closing higher. The notable gain reduces the benchmark index's month-to-date loss to 7.9% and puts... Read More

October 29, 2018

The S&P 500 lost 0.7% in another volatile session on Monday, extending its monthly losses to 9.4%. Continued tech weakness shook investor confidence, and reports of another possible round of Chinese tariffs helped accelerate losses in the afternoon. Stocks opened strong, with the S&P 500 trading as high as 1.8% early... Read More

October 26, 2018

    The S&P 500 lost 1.7% in a volatile session on Friday, in which it never touched positive territory. Disappointing earnings reports from Amazon (AMZN 162.81, -139.36, -7.8%) and Alphabet (GOOG 1071.47, -24.10, -2.2%) rattled... Read More

October 25, 2018

  The U.S. stock market is in much better form today than yesterday, supported by reassuring earnings results and guidance from leading companies, influential sector leadership, and an underlying sense that the market was due for a spring-loaded rebound effort given the scope of... Read More

October 24, 2018

Stocks took another beating on Wednesday, with losses accelerating into the closing bell. The S&P 500 lost 3.1%, completely wiping out its gains for the year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also fell into the red for the year, dropping 608 points, or 2.4%, and the Nasdaq Composite lost 4.4%. There... Read More

October 23, 2018

  The S&P 500 closed Tuesday on stronger footing after tumbling as low as 2.2% in early morning trading. Discouraging price action in foreign markets and some disappointing earnings contributed to early negative sentiment, but the benchmark index gradually recouped intraday losses, finishing lower by... Read More

October 22, 2018

  The S&P 500 closed Monday 0.4% lower after squandering opening gains and trading mostly in negative territory throughout the day. Another round of disappointing investor response to earnings, possibly rooted in the belief that corporations are at,... Read More

October 19, 2018

The S&P 500 closed Friday at its flat line, a fitting end to a flat week; the benchmark index ended just 0.02% above last Friday's close. The session began with a bang, with the S&P 500 adding as much as 1.0%, following a positive... Read More

October 18, 2018

  The S&P 500 has fallen 1.1% today and is currently trading near session lows as investors express concern over global economic growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is lower by 1.1%, the Nasdaq Composite is lower by 1.6%, and the Russell 2000 has... Read More

October 17, 2018

The S&P 500 finished at its flat line on Wednesday following a volatile day of trading. A late morning surge in the financials sector (+0.9%) lifted the benchmark index from its early depths — the S&P 500 was down as much as 1.0% — and the release of the September... Read More

October 16, 2018

  Stocks cruised considerably higher on Tuesday, ignited by strong earnings at the open and then fueled by a resurgence in the heavily-weighted information technology sector (3.0%) throughout the day. The S&P 500 rocketed through its 200-day moving average, closing 2.2% higher and reducing... Read More

October 15, 2018

  U.S. stocks oscillated around the S&P 500's flat line on Monday before whipping noticeably lower in the final hour of trading. Renewed weaknesses in the information technology (-1.6%) and financials (0.5%) sectors coupled with ongoing concerns about the global economic growth outlook kept... Read More

October 12, 2018

Stocks rebounded on Friday, recouping a good chunk of their weekly losses in a volatile day of trading. The S&P 500 added as much as 1.7% at the start of the session, but nearly wiped it all out intraday before rallying to finish higher by 1.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

October 11, 2018

  The stock market has been on a bit of a roller-coaster ride today with a mostly downside orientation.  The lack of buy-the-dip conviction has been disappointing and invited follow-through selling efforts that had the Dow Jones Industrial Average down nearly 700 points, or... Read More

October 10, 2018

Stocks tumbled on Wednesday as bond yields held steady at multi-year highs and amid continued concerns about economic and earnings growth prospects. The S&P 500 lost 3.3%, extending its losing streak to five sessions in a row, which is its longest losing streak since 2016. The Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

October 9, 2018

  U.S. futures are pointing to a lower start again this morning as U.S. Treasury yields continue to rise. The S&P 500 futures are currently trading 14 points, or 0.5%, below fair value. Yesterday's volatile session was marred by a continued weakness of highly valued... Read More

October 8, 2018

    The U.S. stock market closed a volatile day of trading on a mixed note. The S&P 500 was down as much as 0.8% on Monday, but rebounded in the afternoon to reclaim its 50-day moving average... Read More

October 5, 2018

  The stock market fell on Friday as bond yields continued to climb following the release of the Employment Situation report for September. The S&P 500 and the Dow lost 0.6% and 0.7%, respectively. The tech-heavy Nasdaq dropped... Read More

October 4, 2018

    Stocks tumbled in Thursday's trading session, extending yesterday afternoon's slow and steady retreat, which was triggered by U.S. Treasury yields reaching multi-year highs. The S&P 500 was down as much as 1.4% in intraday trade, but... Read More

October 3, 2018

    Stocks have been trending sideways today, hovering a step above yesterday's closing levels. The S&P 500 is flirting with record territory, up 0.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average has extended the record high it hit... Read More

October 2, 2018

  Investors awoke to continued Italian drama on Tuesday, but were able to shrug it off for the most part, leaving the S&P 500 little changed. The Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed, climbing 0.5% to a new all-time... Read More

October 1, 2018

    U.S. stocks opened the fourth quarter Monday on a higher note, boosted by Canada joining Mexico and the United States in a trade agreement. The S&P 500 closed the session +0.4%, down from its +0.8% intraday... Read More

September 28, 2018

    Wall Street finished Friday little changed, securing big gains for the third quarter. The S&P 500 kept near its flat line throughout the session, closing just a tick below its unchanged mark. The Nasdaq and the... Read More

September 27, 2018

  The S&P 500 got its first win of the week on Thursday, adding 0.3%, as investors continued to chew on Wednesday's policy statement from the Fed. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.2%, and the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

September 26, 2018

The Federal Reserve increased short-term interest rates on Wednesday, as expected, raising the fed funds target range by 25 basis points to 2.00-2.25%. Stocks were up modestly ahead of the release of the Fed's decision, which crossed the wires at 2:00 PM ET, and extended... Read More

September 25, 2018

Stocks had a mixed outing on Tuesday, with the major averages settling little changed. The S&P 500 lost 0.1%, the Nasdaq ticked up 0.2%, and the Dow slid 0.3%. The flat performance happened as the Federal Reserve kicked off a two-day policy meeting in D.C., and as President Trump appeared... Read More

September 24, 2018

  Stocks opened the week on a mostly lower note after the U.S. implemented tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods at midnight on Sunday. The S&P 500 lost 0.4% in Monday's trade, and the Dow lost 0.7%, breaking its two-session streak of... Read More

September 21, 2018

  Wall Street had a mixed outing on Friday, with the underperformance of financial and technology shares balancing gains most elsewhere. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.3%, closing at a new all-time high for the second day in a row. The S&P 500... Read More

September 20, 2018

    Wall Street soared on Thursday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average adding 1.0% and finishing at a new all-time high for the first time since January 26. With trade war... Read More

September 19, 2018

The S&P 500 finished Wednesday with a slim gain of 0.1%, buoyed by financial shares, which rallied amid another rise in interest rates. The blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed, adding 0.6%, but the tech-heavy Nasdaq lagged, closing lower by 0.1%. The small-cap Russell 2000 fell 0.5%. Wednesday's mixed outing followed... Read More

September 18, 2018

  Stocks rallied on Tuesday as investors shrugged off a fresh exchange of tariffs between the world's two largest economies. The S&P 500 climbed 0.5%, reclaiming its Monday decline, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite advanced 0.7% and 0.8%, respectively.... Read More

September 17, 2018

Wall Street fell on Monday, with tech shares leading the retreat, as investors prepared for another tranche of U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. The S&P 500 declined 0.6%, breaking a five-session winning streak, and the Dow lost 0.4%. The Nasdaq and the Russell 2000 underperformed, losing 1.4% and 1.1%, respectively. This... Read More

September 14, 2018

The stock market saw limited movement on Friday, ending a positive week on a flat note. The S&P 500 (unch) settled just above its flat line, locking in a 1.2% gain for the week. The Dow (unch) and Nasdaq (-0.1%) also finished near their flat lines, ending the week with... Read More

September 13, 2018

  After a pause on Wednesday, stocks have resumed this week's upward trend in today's session, with the S&P 500 tacking on another 0.5%, which brings its weekly gain to 1.1%. The benchmark index is roughly 10 points, or 0.3%, away from its August... Read More

September 12, 2018

  Wall Street struggled for direction on Wednesday, initially pulled lower by lagging tech shares only to regain its footing on headlines that the U.S. is proposing a new round of trade talks with China. The S&P 500 finished just slightly higher (+0.04%), and the... Read More

September 11, 2018

The U.S. equity market has taken off following a slow start to today's session, extending Monday's rebound. The S&P 500 was down as much as 0.4% earlier, but is now up 0.5%, hovering near its best mark of the day. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq is up 0.6%, and the blue-chip Dow is also higher by 0.6%. Read More

September 10, 2018

The S&P 500 advanced for the first time this month on Monday, tacking on 0.2%, in what was a range-bound day of trading on Wall Street. Most S&P sectors climbed, but continued concerns over U.S.-China trade relations kept gains in check. The tech-heavy Nasdaq advanced 0.3%, but the blue-chip Dow underperformed, losing 0.2%. Read More

September 7, 2018

Stocks slipped on Friday, giving the bears a clean sweep for the abbreviated week, after the Employment Situation report for August showed a stronger-than-expected increase in average hourly earnings and after President Trump threatened yet another round of tariffs on Chinese goods. The S&P 500 finished lower by 0.2%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.3% apiece. Read More

September 6, 2018

Stocks have fallen once again today, putting the S&P 500 on track for its fourth loss in five sessions. The benchmark index is currently drifting just a step above its session low with a loss of 0.6%, extending its weekly decline to 1.0%. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq is underperforming, down 1.2%, but the Dow is down just 0.1%. Read More

September 5, 2018

The S&P 500 dropped for the third time in four sessions on Wednesday, losing 0.3%, as technology and consumer discretionary shares weighed, overpowering gains most elsewhere. The tech-heavy Nasdaq showed relative weakness, tumbling 1.2%, while the blue-chip Dow outperformed, tacking on 0.1%. Read More

September 4, 2018

Stocks opened the holiday-shortened week on a modestly lower note, pulling back from last week's record highs amid continued uncertainty over U.S.-Canada trade relations. The S&P 500 finished with a loss of 0.2%, but did close in the upper half of its daily range. Meanwhile, the Dow slipped 0.1%, and... Read More

August 31, 2018

  Friday's trading session — the last session ahead of an extended Labor Day weekend — was an eventful one in terms of trade-related headlines, but a largely uneventful one for the major averages, which finished roughly flat. The S&P 500 (unch) added less... Read More

August 30, 2018

  Stocks look ready to take a breather this morning following four straight record-setting sessions on Wall Street. Futures are pointing towards a modestly lower open, with the S&P 500 futures trading five points, or 0.2%, below fair value. The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 futures... Read More

August 29, 2018

  Wednesday was another record-setting day on Wall Street with the S&P 500 (+0.6%), the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%), and the small-cap Russell 2000 (+0.4%) closing at all-time highs for the fourth day in a row. The Dow Jones... Read More

August 28, 2018

  The S&P 500 (unch) eked out a very narrow victory on Tuesday, closing at a new record high for the third session in a row. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) and the Russell 2000 (unch) also notched new records, and the Dow Jones Industrial... Read More

August 27, 2018

  Wall Street extended Friday's push into record territory on Monday, with the S&P 500 (+0.8%) registering its second straight record close. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.9%) and the small-cap Russell 2000 (+0.2%) also notched new records, while the... Read More

August 24, 2018

    Friday was a record-setting day for the stock market, with the S&P 500 (+0.6%) notching its first record close (2874.69) since January 26. The Nasdaq (+0.9%) also registered a fresh record finish, as did the small-cap Russell... Read More

August 23, 2018

  It's been another range-bound day of trading thus far that's left the S&P 500 just a tick lower at midday. The benchmark index remains within striking distance of record territory, hovering about 0.4% below its January 26 record close, but political uncertainty surrounding... Read More

August 22, 2018

  The S&P 500 held steady on Wednesday, finishing just a tick below its flat line, in what was a range-bound day of trading. Investors had several headlines to work through, including criminal convictions of two former advisers... Read More

August 21, 2018

The S&P 500 notched its fourth straight advance on Tuesday, adding 0.2%, and touched a new intraday record (2873.23) before pulling back in the afternoon, eventually settling 0.4% below its January 26 record close (2872.87). The benchmark index kept within a pretty narrow range,... Read More

August 20, 2018

  The S&P 500 advanced 0.2% on Monday, closing higher for a third straight session. The benchmark index is now just 0.6% below its January 26 record high. As for the other major averages, the Dow climbed 0.4% on Monday, hitting its best level... Read More

August 17, 2018

    The S&P 500 advanced 0.3% on Friday, securing a weekly gain of 0.6%, helped by a Wall Street Journal report that Chinese and U.S. negotiators are planning talks to try to end their trade disagreement ahead... Read More

August 16, 2018

  Stocks have rebounded today following reports that China and the U.S. will resume trade talks as early as next week, the first official talks since negotiations broke down two months ago. The major averages have largely been climbing since the opening bell, but some... Read More

August 15, 2018

  Stocks dropped for the fifth time in six sessions on Wednesday as tensions between the U.S. and Turkey tightened and as oil prices tumbled to a two-month low, weighing on energy shares. The S&P 500 finished lower by 0.8% after being down as much as 1.3% intraday. The Dow and... Read More

August 14, 2018

The S&P 500 rebounded on Tuesday, ending its four-session losing streak with a gain of 0.6%. The Nasdaq and the Dow also advanced, adding 0.7% and 0.5%, respectively. The major averages quickly extended modest opening gains, but then trended sideways for the final five hours of trading, ending near their... Read More

August 13, 2018

  The S&P 500 notched its fourth straight loss on Monday, sliding 0.4%, as the Turkish lira extended Friday's tumble, causing further concerns over the financial health of lenders with heavy exposure to the economically-struggling country. The Nasdaq slipped 0.3%, and the Dow declined 0.5%. Turkey's... Read More

August 10, 2018

    A plunging Turkish lira sent shock waves through global equity markets on Friday, causing concerns over the financial health of lenders with heavy exposure to the economically-struggling country. The S&P 500 lost 0.7%, dropping into the... Read More

August 9, 2018

  Stocks look ready to continue yesterday's sideways trend this morning, as the S&P 500 futures are currently trading in line with fair value. The S&P 500 enters today's session with a weekly gain of 0.6% and remains roughly 0.5% below the all-time high... Read More

August 8, 2018

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August 7, 2018

  Stocks advanced for a fourth straight session on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 climbing 0.3% to 2858. The benchmark index is now within 0.5% of its January 26 record high. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.3% as well, and the blue-chip Dow Jones... Read More

August 6, 2018

Stocks drifted higher on Monday, underpinned by a halfhearted effort from the bulls, who looked a little tired following last week's advance — the fifth straight weekly advance for the S&P 500. All three major averages finished in the green, with the S&P 500 adding 0.4%, the tech-heavy Nasdaq climbing... Read More

August 3, 2018

Stocks added to their weekly gains on Friday as investors took the July Employment Situation report in stride, pushing the S&P 500 higher by 0.5%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.5% as well, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq ticked up 0.1%. Small caps struggled though, sending the Russell 2000 lower... Read More

August 2, 2018

The U.S. stock market is on course for a solidly lower open, as the S&P 500 futures are trading 19 points, or 0.7%, below fair value. The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 futures are in a similar spot, trading 61 points, or 0.8%, below fair value. Asian equities ended Thursday solidly lower,... Read More

August 1, 2018

The S&P 500 ended a three-session slide on Tuesday, but looks poised to open today's session flat, with the S&P 500 futures trading in line with fair value. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 futures are up 0.3% following an upbeat earnings report and guidance from Apple (AAPL), which has... Read More

July 31, 2018

Stocks broke a three-session losing streak on Wednesday, with industrial shares leading the charge. The major averages extended modest opening gains throughout the morning, but slipped a bit in the final stretch, closing a step below their session highs. The S&P 500 added 0.5%; the Dow climbed 0.4%; the Nasdaq rose 0.6%; and the small-cap Russell 2000 jumped 1.1%. Read More

July 30, 2018

July 27, 2018

Stocks started Friday stable, but began tumbling in the afternoon, with tech shares pacing the broad-based retreat.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq dropped 1.5%, ending the week lower by 1.1%. The S&P 500 and the Dow also declined, losing 0.7% and 0.3%, respectively, but managed to keep in positive territory for the week (+0.6%; +1.6%). The small-cap Russell 2000 underperformed (-1.9%), extending its weekly loss to 2.0%.

July 26, 2018

  Stocks are on course for a lower start to today's session following a late-afternoon spike on Wednesday. The S&P 500 futures are 10 points, or 0.4%, below fair value. The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 futures are 104 points, or 1.4%, below fair value after Facebook... Read More

July 25, 2018

The S&P 500 (+0.9%) advanced for a third straight session on Wednesday, extending its weekly gain to 1.6%. The Dow (+0.7%) and the Nasdaq (+1.2%) also climbed, with the Nasdaq hitting a new record. Stocks held modest gains with 30 minutes left in the session, but spiked to new highs following headlines that President Trump has secured trade concessions from the EU. Read More

July 24, 2018

It was an erratic day of trading on Wall Street, with tech shares being the primary source of volatility. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite jumped 1.1% at the start of Tuesday's session, touching a new intraday record, but gave it all back, settling a tick below its flat line. The S&P 500 and the Dow also reversed course intraday, but managed to tack on 0.5% and 0.8%, respectively, nonetheless. Small caps struggled, pushing the Russell 2000 lower by 1.1%. Read More

July 23, 2018

Financial shares helped to nudge the market a tick higher on Monday, underpinned by a steepening of the yield curve. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite tacked on 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively, but the Dow underperformed, shedding 0.1%. Action was range-bound, with the S&P 500 keeping between -0.2% and +0.2%. Read More

July 20, 2018

  Stocks finished a range-bound Friday session little changed, shrugging off potentially rattling comments from President Trump. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite both lost 0.1%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average finished unchanged. Friday's stumble left the S&P 500 flat for the... Read More

July 19, 2018

U.S. equities stumbled on Thursday, breaking a five-session winning streak for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which finished with a loss of 0.5%. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite declined as well, losing 0.4% apiece, but the small-cap Russell 2000 managed to advance, adding 0.6%. Read More

July 18, 2018

  The market ticked higher on Wednesday, with financial and industrial shares doing the heavy lifting. The S&P 500 and the Dow advanced 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively, but the tech-heavy Nasdaq lagged, closing just a tick below its unchanged mark and narrowly missing a... Read More

July 17, 2018

Today started with a whimper, but it eventually unfolded with a bang as the stock market overcame the shock of a reporting disappointment from growth-stock darling Netflix (NFLX 379.48, -21.00, -5.2%).  Remarkably, it was Netflix that helped turn the tide of negative sentiment and fostered a broad-based rebound effort... Read More

July 16, 2018

Stocks opened the week with a sleepy performance on Monday that ended with a slim loss of 0.1% for the S&P 500. The Nasdaq Composite also declined, losing 0.3%, but the Dow Jones Industrial Average managed to add 0.2%. The Russell 2000 underperformed, dropping 0.5%. Read More

July 13, 2018

July 12, 2018

Wall Street is looking to resume its upward trend after hitting a bump in the road on Wednesday when the S&P 500 dropped for the first time in five sessions. The S&P 500 futures are trading 14 points, or 0.5%, above fair value, and the benchmark index enters today's session... Read More

July 11, 2018

  Stocks snapped a four-session winning streak on Wednesday as U.S.-China trade tensions retook center stage and as crude oil prices tumbled, weighing on energy shares. The S&P 500 dropped 0.7% to 2774, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.9% to 24700, and the... Read More

July 10, 2018

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July 9, 2018

Stocks rallied for a third consecutive session on Monday as investors shelved their trade war fears and set their sights on the Q2 earnings season, which will unofficially kick off on Friday. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq advanced 0.9% apiece, and the Dow added 1.3%, climbing back into positive... Read More

July 6, 2018

  Apparently, a trade war started on Friday — or so it was said — yet the stock market acted as if there was a daisy stuck in the barrel of every trade threat.  For the second day in a row, the stock market... Read More

July 5, 2018

    The stock market has traded predominately with a bullish mindset today, although it did have a moment around mid-morning when its mindset wavered and the major indices threatened to give back all of their morning gains. ... Read More

July 3, 2018

  The market ended an abbreviated Tuesday session on a disappointing note, falling victim to a late tech-led sell off. The S&P 500 ended lower by 0.5%, closing near its worst mark of the day and dropping about six points below its 50-day moving... Read More

July 2, 2018

A tech-charged afternoon rally saved the U.S. equity market from kicking off the abbreviated Fourth of July week on a lower note. The S&P 500 advanced 0.3%, closing at its best mark of the day and about eight points above its 50-day moving average. The Dow added 0.2%, the Nasdaq... Read More

June 29, 2018

June 28, 2018

Stocks rebounded on Thursday, reclaiming around a third of their weekly losses. The S&P 500 advanced 0.6%, but some late selling left it just a tick below its 50-day moving average. The Nasdaq did a little better, adding 0.8%, while the Dow and the Russell 2000 underperformed, climbing 0.4% and 0.3%, respectively. Read More

June 27, 2018

Stocks ended Wednesday's session on a solidly lower note, despite getting off to a good start. The S&P 500 was up as much as 0.9%, but finished lower by 0.9%, closing below its 50-day moving average for the first time in seven weeks. The Dow declined 0.7%, and the Nasdaq and the Russell 2000 lost 1.5%-1.7% apiece.

June 26, 2018

Stocks rebounded modestly on Tuesday -- reclaiming less than a fifth of their Monday losses -- with energy shares leading the way, helped by a spike in oil prices. The S&P 500 ended higher by 0.2% after finding early support at its 50-day moving average. Small caps outperformed, pushing the Russell 2000 up 0.7%. Read More

June 25, 2018

June 22, 2018

The S&P 500 ended the week on a positive note by advancing 0.2% on Friday. Energy shares led the broad-based rally thanks to a spike in oil prices, which surged to a four-week high as OPEC wrapped up its latest summit in Vienna. However, financials, technology, and consumer discretionary... Read More

June 21, 2018

  The stock market ended a three-session losing streak yesterday, but is on course to open today's session slightly lower. The S&P 500 futures are down 0.1%. Oil ministers from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and other major oil-producing countries, including Russia,... Read More

June 20, 2018

    Stocks ended a three-session skid on Wednesday as a heap of corporate news served to distract investors from escalated U.S.-China trade tensions. The Nasdaq and the Russell 2000 rallied to new record highs, adding around 0.7%... Read More

June 19, 2018

  U.S. stocks retreated for a third consecutive session on Tuesday as U.S.-China trade tensions continued to weigh on sentiment. However, also for the third straight session, an intraday rebound made the close look notably better than the open. The S&P 500, for instance,... Read More

June 18, 2018

Wall Street is on course to begin the week on a lower note, as the S&P 500 futures are trading 18 points, or 0.6%, below fair value. Fears over a trade war between the U.S. and China have been the widely-cited catalyst behind this morning's sell off — although there haven't... Read More

June 14, 2018

  Stocks are mostly higher this afternoon, but financial shares have been selling off amid a flattening of the yield curve. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite are up 0.2% and 0.8%, respectively, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average is slightly lower, down... Read More

June 13, 2018

  Stocks drifted flat to slightly higher for much of Wednesday's session, but slipped in the afternoon following the Fed's decision to up its rate-hike forecast. The S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average finished lower by... Read More

June 12, 2018

    Equities settled Tuesday little changed as investors showed a muted reaction to President Trump's historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The S&P 500 ticked higher for a third straight session, adding 0.2%, while... Read More

June 11, 2018

  The stock market is on course for a flattish start to today's session following last week's rally, which left the S&P 500 at a three-month high, and ahead of President Donald Trump's meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and policy meetings... Read More

June 8, 2018

  It's been a range-bound day on Wall Street thus far as investors keep an eye towards Quebec where G7 leaders are holding their annual summit. The S&P 500 was down modestly this morning, but a recent uptick in buying has pushed it into... Read More

June 7, 2018

The U.S. equity market is on course for a slightly higher start to today's session, looking to extend its winning streak to five sessions. The S&P 500 futures are currently trading two points, or 0.1%, above fair value after the benchmark index finished Wednesday at its best level in three... Read More

June 6, 2018

U.S. equities are looking to extend their winning streak to four sessions this morning, as the S&P 500 futures are trading eight points, or 0.3%, above fair value. Both the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite and the small-cap Russell 2000 will be attempting to settle at new record highs for the third... Read More

June 5, 2018

Stocks ended Tuesday on slightly higher note, with the S&P 500 adding 0.1%. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) and the Russell 2000 (+0.7%) outperformed, finishing at new all-time highs for the second day in a row, but the Dow lagged, closing lower by 0.1%. The major averages kept within pretty narrow ranges... Read More

June 4, 2018

  The equity market kicked off the week with a quiet victory on Monday, adding to last week's advance. The tech-heavy Nasdaq climbed 0.7% to 7606.46, closing at a new record high for the first time since March 12. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 and... Read More

June 1, 2018

  The month of May might have ended with a whimper, but the month of June started with a bang.  Driven by an easing of the political tension in Europe and another employment report out of the U.S. that produced strong job growth, modest... Read More

May 31, 2018

The U.S. stock market is on track for a flattish start to today's session following a volatile start to the week that featured a 1.2% decline for the S&P 500 on Tuesday followed by a 1.3% surge on Wednesday. The S&P 500 futures are currently trading two points, or 0.1%,... Read More

May 30, 2018

  Wall Street regained Tuesday losses on Wednesday, and a little extra, as investors walked back their bearish reaction to Italy's ongoing political crisis. The S&P 500 and the Dow advanced 1.3% apiece, while the Nasdaq finished with a gain of 0.9%. Smaller companies... Read More

May 29, 2018

    Uncertainty surrounding the future of the Italian government sent equity markets lower around the globe on Tuesday as U.S. investors returned to the trading desk for the first time this week following an extended Memorial Day... Read More

May 25, 2018

    The stock market ended Friday on a mostly lower note, but managed to keep in positive territory for the week. The S&P 500 declined 0.2% on Friday, closing the week higher by 0.3%. The Dow also... Read More

May 24, 2018

  Stocks are a ways above their session lows this afternoon, but still in the red following President Trump's decision to cancel his June 12 summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The S&P 500 is down 0.3% after opening flat and being... Read More

May 23, 2018

The major indices were already in the process of paring larger losses registered earlier in the session, yet they jumped noticeably following the release of the FOMC Minutes for the May meeting. The impetus for the positive, knee-jerk response was the acknowledgment in the minutes that, "... a temporary period... Read More

May 22, 2018

  Stocks held slim gains through most of Tuesday's session, but a late bout of selling left the major averages in negative territory. The Dow led the retreat, losing 0.7%, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq ended with losses of 0.3% and 0.2%,... Read More

May 21, 2018

  Weekend comments from Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who said that a trade war between the U.S. and China has been put on hold, helped the U.S. stock market rebound from last week's losses on Monday. The major averages did settle below their session... Read More

May 18, 2018

  Stocks were range-bound on Friday, drifting near their flat lines from open to close. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq ended with losses of 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively, while the Dow eked out a very slim victory, adding less than 0.1%. Small caps... Read More

May 17, 2018

  The stock market is flat this afternoon, but held a modest gain through much of the morning. Small caps are outperforming, pushing the Russell 2000 (+0.5%) to a new all-time high. Energy (+1.2%) is the top-performing S&P sector, by a comfortable margin, as crude... Read More

May 16, 2018

  U.S. equities have rebounded today, reclaiming a good chunk of their Tuesday declines. A recent spike has taken the major averages to new session highs, with the Dow up 0.3%, the S&P 500 up 0.5%, and the Nasdaq up 0.8% at midday. The... Read More

May 15, 2018

The Dow's eight-session winning streak came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as Treasury yields spiked, returning to multi-year highs. The Dow and the Nasdaq finished with losses of 0.8% apiece, while the S&P 500 ended lower by 0.7%. The small-cap Russell 2000 held... Read More

May 14, 2018

  The stock market began the week on a slightly higher note, but intraday action saw the major averages back off their opening highs. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after being up 0.5% in the early going. The Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed, rising... Read More

May 11, 2018

    Equities ticked higher on Friday, locking in big gains for the week, as a positive performance from the health care sector narrowly outweighed a modest pullback from the information technology group. The S&P 500 and the... Read More

May 10, 2018

  Stocks have cooled off following yesterday's unexpected surge, leaving the market on track for a flattish open. The S&P 500 futures are six points, or 0.2%, above fair value. Investors are set to receive some key inflationary data this morning — namely, the April... Read More

May 9, 2018

  Equities made a strong move higher on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq climbing 1.0% apiece, and the Dow advancing 0.8%. The day began on a mildly higher note as investors continued to digest President Trump's Tuesday decision to withdraw the U.S.... Read More

May 8, 2018

The stock market ended Tuesday little changed as investors chewed on President Trump's decision to pull the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear agreement all the way through the closing bell. The Dow and the Nasdaq finished a tick higher, while the S&P 500 finished a tick lower. Small caps... Read More

May 7, 2018

  Stocks were range-bound for much of Monday's session, cruising towards what looked like an easy victory, but news that President Trump will announce his decision regarding the Iran nuclear deal on Tuesday prompted a wave of selling in the late afternoon. The market... Read More

May 4, 2018

    U.S. equities rallied on Friday following the publication of the monthly jobs report, with technology names leading the charge — including Apple (AAPL 183.83, +6.94), which rallied 3.9% after Warren Buffet revealed his company, Berkshire Hathaway... Read More

May 3, 2018

U.S. equities are on course for a lower open, as the S&P 500 futures are trading 12 points, or 0.5%, below fair value. The S&P 500 has declined in two of this week's three sessions — most recently on Wednesday, when the benchmark index dropped 0.7%. Week to date, the... Read More

May 2, 2018

  The major averages finished the midweek session on a lower note despite an upbeat quarterly earnings report from Apple (AAPL 176.57, +7.47) and a status quo directive from the Federal Open Market Committee. The S&P 500 and the Dow lost 0.7% apiece,... Read More

May 1, 2018

Strength in technology shares carried the broader market to a modest victory on Tuesday, leaving the major averages at their best marks of the day. The S&P 500 added 0.3%, the tech-heavy Nasdaq rallied 0.9%, and the small-cap Russell 2000 jumped 0.6%. The Dow underperformed, however, losing 0.3%. The major averages... Read More

April 30, 2018

Stocks got off to a decent start on Monday, but ended the session on a lower note. The major averages finished at their worst marks of the day due to a sharp bout of selling in the final minutes; the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq settled with losses of 0.8%... Read More

April 27, 2018

  The major averages ended Friday little changed despite strong earnings reports from Amazon (AMZN 1572.62, +54.66), Microsoft (MSFT 95.82, +1.56), and Intel (INTC 52.73, -0.32) — three high-profile names that helped pace last year's... Read More

April 26, 2018

  It's been a positive day on Wall Street thus far, with the major averages reclaiming a good chunk of their losses for the week. The S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average are up 0.8% apiece, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite shows... Read More

April 25, 2018

The stock market fell sharply yesterday, with the major averages losing more than 1.0% apiece, and looks poised to keep on dropping this morning, as the S&P 500 futures are trading nine points, or 0.3%, below fair value. The S&P 500's 200-day moving average (2608) is in play today after... Read More

April 24, 2018

    Equities tumbled on Tuesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average notching its fifth straight loss, as the benchmark 10-yr Treasury yield continued its climb towards 3.0% and as investors digested the latest batch of first quarter... Read More

April 23, 2018

The stock market enters the week on a two-session skid, hoping that some good earnings news can lure buyers away from the sidelines. Equity futures are currently pointing towards a flat open, with the S&P 500 futures trading just one point above fair value. More than one third of S&P 500... Read More

April 20, 2018

Stocks retreated for the second day in a row on Friday, with shares of tech giant Apple (AAPL 165.72, -7.08, -4.1%) falling sharply. The S&P 500 lost 0.9%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.8%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite declined 1.3%, but all three major averages managed to... Read More

April 20, 2018

Stocks retreated for the second day in a row on Friday, with shares of tech giant Apple (AAPL 165.72, -7.08, -4.1%) falling sharply. The S&P 500 lost 0.9%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.8%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite declined 1.3%, but all three major averages managed to... Read More

April 19, 2018

  Stocks have given back about a third of their weekly gains today, as investors try to digest a heap of corporate news — most of which is earnings related. The major averages have extended their opening losses over the course of the session... Read More

April 18, 2018

Equity indices are mixed at midday after a range-bound first half of trading. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite are up 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average is down 0.1%. All three major averages are looking for their third consecutive win and are up between... Read More

April 17, 2018

    Stocks climbed for the second straight session on Tuesday, as investors turned their attention from geopolitical tensions to Q1 corporate earnings — which have been largely upbeat thus far. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite was particularly strong,... Read More

April 16, 2018

  Investors breathed a sigh of relief on Monday, pushing stocks solidly higher, after a U.S.-led strike on Syria over the weekend turned out to be less dramatic than many had feared. The S&P 500 finished higher by 0.8% at 2677.84 after getting rejected at... Read More

April 13, 2018

  Stocks slipped on Friday, ending a positive week on a disappointing note, as some geopolitical angst prompted investors to take some money off the table ahead of the weekend. The S&P 500 declined 0.3%, the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.5%, and the Dow Jones... Read More

April 12, 2018

  Stocks revived a rebound rally on Thursday following a midweek slump, pushing the S&P 500 higher by 0.8%. The Nasdaq Composite and the Dow Jones Industrial Average did even better, climbing 1.0% and 1.2%, respectively, while the small-cap Russell 2000 lagged a bit,... Read More

April 11, 2018

  Increased tensions between the U.S. and Russia over the ongoing situation in Syria has weighed on sentiment today — although things have gotten a little more cheerful since the opening bell. The S&P 500 is currently down 0.2%, while the Nasdaq trades a... Read More

April 10, 2018

    Stocks were up big from start to finish on Tuesday following conciliatory remarks from Chinese President Xi Jinping, which helped ease fears of a global trade war. The major averages endured some intraday volatility to finish... Read More

April 9, 2018

  Equities look ready to rebound this morning following a big drop on Friday that left the major averages with losses of around 2.0% apiece. The S&P 500 futures are up 14 points (or 0.6%), the Nasdaq futures are up 43 points (or 0.7%),... Read More

April 6, 2018

  The stock market closed the week on a decidedly lower note, falling victim to fears about potential trade wars, the Federal Reserve's tightening bias, and the specter of earnings growth not living up to this year's high expectations.  The Dow, Nasdaq, S&P 500,... Read More

April 5, 2018

  Equities advanced for a third consecutive session on Thursday, with energy and materials shares leading a broad-based rally. The benchmark S&P 500 jumped 0.7% to 2662.84, trimming its yearly loss to 0.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.5% to 7076.55, and the Dow Jones... Read More

April 4, 2018

  Stocks fought through trade war fears on Wednesday to advance for the second session in a row. The S&P 500, which opened Wednesday with a loss of around 1.5%, finished higher by 1.2% at 2644.69. The Nasdaq and the Dow also opened solidly... Read More

April 3, 2018

U.S. equities rebounded on Tuesday, reclaiming a little more than half of their Monday losses in a broad-based rally. The S&P 500 advanced 1.3% to 2614.45, the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 1.7% to 24033.36, and the Nasdaq Composite jumped 1.0% to 6941.28.  The major averages bounced around with modest gains... Read More

April 2, 2018

U.S. equities registered big losses on Monday, with declining issues outpacing advancing issues four to one at the New York Stock Exchange. The S&P 500 dropped 58.99 points, or 2.2%, to 2581.88, falling to its lowest level since mid-November and closing below its 200-day simple moving average (2589.85) for the first... Read More

March 29, 2018

  Technology shares rebounded on Thursday, leading a broad rally on Wall Street, as investors kicked off the extended Easter weekend on a positive note. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite jumped 1.6% to 7063.44, the S&P 500 climbed 1.4% to 2640.87, and the Dow Jones Industrial... Read More

March 28, 2018

    Equities were up and down on Wednesday, eventually settling below Tuesday's closing levels, as influential FAANG names like Amazon (AMZN 1431.42, -65.63) and Netflix (NFLX 285.77, -14.92) dropped sharply for the second day in... Read More

March 27, 2018

    Equities tried to extend Monday's rebound at the start of Tuesday's session, but ended up giving back the bulk of Monday's gains instead. Technology shares led the retreat, pushing the tech-heavy Nasdaq lower by 2.9%. The... Read More

March 26, 2018

The U.S. equity market is on course to reclaim a nice chunk of last week's heavy losses this morning following a Wall Street Journal report that the U.S. and China have quietly started negotiating to improve American access to Chinese markets. The S&P 500 futures are trading 39 points, or 1.5%,... Read More

March 23, 2018

Stocks dropped again on Friday, piling on losses for the week; the S&P 500 tumbled 2.1% to 2588.26, the Nasdaq Composite declined 2.4% to 6992.67, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.8% to 23533.20 — its worst close since November 2017. The three major indices finished the week with... Read More

March 22, 2018

Stocks tumbled on Thursday as a slew of leery headlines left buyers on the sidelines. The S&P 500 lost 2.5%, dropping into negative territory for the year (-1.1%) and extending its week-to-date decline to 3.9%, while the Nasdaq and the Dow tumbled 2.4% and... Read More

March 21, 2018

  Stocks swung sharply on Wednesday afternoon following the release of the Fed's latest policy directive, which increased the fed funds target range by 25 basis points to 1.50%-1.75%. The S&P 500, the Nasdaq Composite, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average eventually settled with... Read More

March 20, 2018

    Stocks reclaimed a small portion of Monday's decline in choppy trade on Tuesday as investors began gearing up for the Fed's latest policy directive, which will cross the wires on... Read More

March 19, 2018

  U.S. equities took a beating on Monday, with declining issues outnumbering advancing issues nearly four to one on the New York Stock Exchange. The S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 1.4% apiece, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite lost 1.8% as... Read More

March 18, 2018

  Wall Street wrapped up a disappointing week on a positive note on Friday, in what was a quiet and fairly range-bound session. The S&P 500 advanced 0.2%, breaking a four-session losing streak, while the Dow and the small-cap Russell 2000 added 0.3% and... Read More

March 15, 2018

  The S&P 500 is slightly higher this afternoon, up 0.1%, hoping to hold on for its first win of the week. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite trades flat and the Dow Jones Industrial Average trades higher by 0.9% after lagging behind the other major... Read More

March 14, 2018

  The S&P 500 moved lower for the third consecutive session on Wednesday, losing 0.6%, as fears over a potential trade war continued linger. The Dow Jones Industrial Average did even worse, losing 1.0%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite held up relatively well, shedding... Read More

March 13, 2018

    U.S. equities got off to a good start on Tuesday, but began declining soon thereafter, finishing the session on a broadly lower note. The S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended with losses of... Read More

March 12, 2018

  The U.S. equity market had a big day on Friday following another 'Goldilocks' jobs report, with the Nasdaq Composite rallying 1.8% to a new record high, and looks poised to open today's session with a modest gain. The S&P 500 futures are trading... Read More

March 9, 2018

  Stocks advanced on Friday, climbing steadily over the course of the session, as investors cheered the Employment Situation Report for February, which showed strong jobs growth while keeping inflation concerns at bay. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 1.8%... Read More

March 8, 2018

U.S. equities ticked higher on Thursday as investors awaited President Trump's official approval of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which he gave minutes before the closing bell. The S&P 500 finished with a gain of 0.5%, closing at its best mark of the... Read More

March 7, 2018

An afternoon rally left the U.S. equity market little changed on Wednesday as investors contemplated the resignation of White House Chief Economic Advisor Gary Cohn. The S&P 500 finished a tick below its flat line (-0.1%), breaking a three-session winning streak, while the Nasdaq did a little better (+0.3%) and... Read More

March 6, 2018

Stocks finished modestly higher on Tuesday, notching their third consecutive victory, following a hard-fought battle between the bulls and the bears. The S&P 500 advanced 0.3%, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.6% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed flat. The small-cap Russell 2000 outperformed, rallying 1.0%. Investors continued weighing the... Read More

March 5, 2018

  Stocks ended a three-session skid with a win on Friday, but look poised to resume their downward march this morning. The S&P 500 futures are trading nine points, or 0.3%, below fair value. Overseas, equity markets in the Asia-Pacific region started the week on... Read More

March 2, 2018

Wall Street finished a disappointing week with a mostly positive outing on Friday. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq finished with gains of 0.5% and 1.1%, respectively, largely thanks to a late rally that left the two indices at their best marks of the day. Meanwhile, the Dow lost 0.3%,... Read More

March 1, 2018

    Stocks tumbled for the third day in a row on Thursday, with the major averages losing between 1.3% and 1.7%. The market kept close to its flat line for the first... Read More

February 28, 2018

February 27, 2018

Equities dropped on Tuesday, giving back all of their Monday gains, as new Fed Chairman Jerome Powell delivered his first semiannual testimony on Capitol Hill. The S&P 500 tumbled 1.3%, while the Nasdaq Composite and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.2%. The major averages finished at their worst marks... Read More

February 26, 2018

The S&P 500 futures are trading 10 points, or 0.4%, above fair value as investors look to continue Friday's rally. Overseas, equity indices in the Asia-Pacific region kicked off the week on a positive note, with Japan's Nikkei (+1.2%) and China's Shanghai Composite (+1.2%) setting the pace, and the major European... Read More

February 23, 2018

  Stocks rallied on Friday, turning what was a disappointing week into a modest success. The Nasdaq Composite led the charge, adding 1.8%, while the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 1.6% and 1.4%, respectively. For the week, the three major... Read More

February 22, 2018

  The S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq (-0.1%) ended Thursday's session little changed, keeping their weekly losses intact. The Dow, meanwhile, rallied 0.7% to end a two-session losing streak and trim its weekly decline to 1.0%. The S&P 500 also ended a two-session... Read More

February 21, 2018

  The S&P 500 futures are trading three points (0.1%) below fair value this morning as investors look ahead to the 2:00 PM ET release of the minutes from the January FOMC meeting. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq 100 futures are trading 15 points (0.2%)... Read More

February 20, 2018

  U.S. equities opened the abbreviated week on a lower note, with the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average breaking their six-session winning streaks. The two indices lost 0.6% and 1.0%, respectively, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite managed to escape with a... Read More

February 16, 2018

Stocks kept their weekly gains intact ahead of the extended Presidents' day weekend, finishing Friday's session little changed. The S&P 500 (unch) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) eked out their sixth consecutive victories, while the Nasdaq Composite underperformed, finishing lower by 0.2%. For the week, the three major stock... Read More

February 15, 2018

  It's been a good week for Wall Street, which seems to have found its footing following last week's drubbing. The S&P 500 advanced on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, adding 3.0% in total, and the S&P 500 futures are pointing towards more gains at... Read More

February 14, 2018

  U.S. equities advanced for a fourth consecutive session on Wednesday, overcoming a hotter-than-expected January CPI reading. The Nasdaq Composite led the rally, adding 1.9%, followed by the S&P 500 (+1.3%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.0%), both of which returned to... Read More

February 13, 2018

  U.S. equities overcame early weakness on Tuesday to push the major indices higher for the third session in a row. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.5%, the S&P 500 rose 0.3%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2%, settling near their session highs. The... Read More

February 12, 2018

Equities quietly reclaimed a nice chunk of last week's losses on Monday, with the Dow climbing 1.7%, the Nasdaq rising 1.6%, and the S&P 500 adding 1.4%.   There was some... Read More

February 9, 2018

U.S. equities reclaimed a nice chunk of their losses for the week on Friday in another volatile trading session. The S&P 500 gained 1.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.4% apiece. The small-cap Russell 2000 also rallied, climbing 1.0%. The S&P 500 covered a wide... Read More

February 8, 2018

Stocks closed sharply lower on Thursday, losing ground for the fifth time in six sessions.  The selling was broad-based and indiscriminate as all 11 S&P 500 sectors finished deep in red figures.  The losses for the sectors ranged from 1.2% (utilities) to 4.5% (financials). The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 4.2%,... Read More

February 7, 2018

Equity futures endured another volatile night of trading, with the S&P 500 futures dropping as much as 1.3% below fair value. The S&P 500 futures are currently 13 points, or 0.5%, below fair value, putting stocks on course to extend their losses for the week; the major stock indices hold week-to-date... Read More

February 6, 2018

  Stocks went on another roller coaster ride on Tuesday, but, unlike Monday, this ride left the major indices solidly higher.   The Dow Jones... Read More

February 5, 2018

It was a frenetic day of trading action on Wall Street.  At one point, the price-weighted Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 1,597 points, or 6.3%, which was its largest intraday point loss in history.  The selling wasn't as pronounced in the S&P 500 and... Read More

February 2, 2018

The sky fell on Friday. Just kidding. The stock market just had a bad day—which has kind of felt as impossible as the prospect of a falling sky since the start of the year. p style="margin: 0in... Read More

February 1, 2018

U.S. equities had a mixed outing on Thursday as investors watched yields rise to multi-year highs, digested a tech-heavy batch of fourth quarter earnings, and looked ahead to Friday's release of the Employment Situation report for January. After opening lower, the market struggled for direction, rotating between modest gains and... Read More

January 31, 2018

    Stocks broke a two-session losing streak on Wednesday, but just barely, finishing just a tick above their unchanged marks. The S&P 500 opened with a gain of 0.5%, but settled higher by just 0.1%. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

January 30, 2018

  U.S. equities tumbled for the second day in a row on Tuesday, with health care and energy shares leading the retreat, as investors took another round of profits following solid gains over the first four weeks of 2018—the S&P 500's best start to... Read More

January 29, 2018

    Stocks retreated from record highs on Monday as investors took some profits following four weeks of nearly nonstop gains and ahead of a busy week that will feature President Trump's first State of the Union address... Read More

January 26, 2018

    The equity market soared to new records on Friday, locking in its fourth consecutive week of gains. The Nasdaq Composite jumped 1.3% to 7505.77 (a new record), the S&P 500 climbed 1.2% to 2872.87 (a new record),... Read More

January 25, 2018

  Stocks were all over the map on Wednesday as traders fought to extend the new year rally—which has given the major indices year-to-date gains of at least 6.0% apiece. The S&P 500 came up a little short, shedding 0.1%, but looks poised to... Read More

January 24, 2018

  Gains keep on coming for the U.S. equity market, which locked in its third straight record finish on Tuesday and looks poised to open Wednesday's session in the green. The S&P 500 futures are trading four points, or 0.1%, above fair value, while... Read More

January 23, 2018

  Stocks climbed to new records for the third session in a row on Tuesday, as investors took in the latest batch of fourth quarter earnings and celebrated the reopening of the federal government. The Nasdaq Composite jumped 0.7%... Read More

January 22, 2018

  Equity futures are pointing towards a slightly lower open as the U.S. government shutdown enters day three. The S&P 500 futures trade two points, or 0.1%, below fair value. The federal government closed nonessential operations at midnight on Friday after the Senate failed to... Read More

January 19, 2018

  Stocks climbed to new records on Friday as a looming government shutdown proved no match for the new year rally. The Nasdaq Composite jumped 0.6% to 7336.38, the S&P 500 climbed 0.4% to 2810.30, and the small-cap Russell 2000 rocketed 1.3% to 1597.61. All... Read More

January 18, 2018

  Stocks ticked down from record highs on Thursday as traders contemplated their next move following three weeks of nearly nonstop gains. The Nasdaq Composite finished just slightly below its flat line while the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.2% and... Read More

January 17, 2018

  Stocks rallied to new records on Wednesday with technology shares leading the charge. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1.3% to 26115.65, the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.0% to 7298.28, the S&P 500 climbed 0.9% to 2802.56, and the Russell 2000 advanced 0.9% to 1586.66.... Read More

January 16, 2018

Stocks rocketed to new records early on Tuesday, but ran out of gas soon thereafter as the new year rally showed signs of fatigue. The major stock indices finished lower across the board. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.4% and 0.5%, respectively, while the small-cap Russell 2000 tumbled... Read More

January 12, 2018

    Stocks ripped to new records for the second day in a row on Friday, extending their fantastic start to 2018. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rallied 0.9% to 25803.19, the S&P 500 jumped 0.7% to 2786.24, and... Read More

January 11, 2018

Stocks rallied to new records on Thursday as investors geared up for the fourth quarter earnings season, which will begin on Friday. The small-cap Russell 2000 set the pace, jumping 1.7% to 1585.63. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.8% to 7211.78, the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased 0.8% to 25574.73, and the... Read More

January 10, 2018

Stocks slipped from record highs on Wednesday with the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq registering their first losses of 2018. All three major U.S. indices—the S&P 500, the Nasdaq, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average—lost 0.1% while the small-cap Russell 2000 finished flat. A Bloomberg report that China may trim or... Read More

January 9, 2018

  The new year rally continued on Tuesday as stocks hit new records for the sixth consecutive session. The Dow Jones Industrial Average set the pace, jumping 0.4% to 25385.80, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite ticked up 0.1% to 2751.29 and 7163.58,... Read More

January 8, 2018

  The U.S. equity market is on course to open today's session slightly lower after an impressive start to 2018. The S&P 500 futures are trading five points, or 0.2%, below fair value. Wall Street climbed to new record highs last week with the Nasdaq,... Read More

January 5, 2018

  Equities notched new records yet again on Friday, advancing for the fourth session in a row. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.9%, the Nasdaq Composite rose 0.8%, and the S&P 500 jumped 0.7%. All three major U.S. indices finished at new record highs,... Read More

January 4, 2018

Stocks advanced to new records for the third session in a row on Thursday, keeping their perfect 2018 record intact. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.6% to 25075.13, the S&P 500 jumped 0.4% to 2723.99, and the Nasdaq Composite ticked up 0.2% to 7077.91. All three stock indices finished at... Read More

January 3, 2018

  Wall Street advanced to new record highs for the second day in a row on Wednesday, solidifying a solid start to the new year. The Nasdaq climbed 0.8% to 7065.53, the S&P 500 jumped 0.6% to 2713.06, the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.4%... Read More

January 2, 2018

U.S. equities began 2018 on a positive note, jolted by a sense of optimism for the new year. The major stock indices mostly reclaimed the losses registered ahead of the extended New Year's weekend, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+1.5%) settling above the 7000 mark for the first time ever. The S&P... Read More

December 29, 2017

  The trading day is done and the year is too. The former wasn't too special, but the latter was. The major indices closed today with losses ranging from 0.5% to 0.9%, unable to live up to the bullish bias that prevailed in pre-market... Read More

December 28, 2017

It was a literal grind for the major indices Thursday, which held to extremely tight trading ranges throughout the day, clinging to modest gains that got extended slightly in the final hour of trading.  When it was all said and done, the major indices closed up between 0.2% and 0.3%. There wasn't... Read More

December 27, 2017

  There was little change in the stock market on Wednesday, which was basically the case throughout the session.  The major indices were confined to tight trading ranges, vacillating within close proximity to Tuesday's closing levels. The lack of conviction was consistent with Tuesday's trading,... Read More

December 26, 2017

It was a lackadaisical day of trading on Wall Street as many participants clearly found better things to do the day after Christmas than buy or sell stocks.  The trading proof of point was in the volume, which totaled just 528 million shares at the NYSE versus 650 million... Read More

December 22, 2017

    Friday's trading session for the stock market was a forgettable one and that's exactly how most market participants probably hoped it would be.  There were no fireworks ahead of Monday's Christmas holiday, which will leave capital... Read More

December 21, 2017

U.S. equity futures point to a modestly higher start to the Thursday session with the S&P 500 futures trading roughly five points above fair value. With the tax vote in the rear-view mirror and Christmas on the immediate horizon, it would not be a surprise to see a decline in daily... Read More

December 20, 2017

  U.S. equities ticked lower on Wednesday as investors contemplated their next move following the passage of tax reform. The S&P 500 (-0.1%), the Nasdaq Composite (unch), and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) each finished a tick below their flat lines. Small caps outperformed,... Read More

December 19, 2017

  U.S. equities slipped from record highs on Tuesday as investors cautiously awaited the Senate's vote on tax reform. The major indices held modest losses throughout most of the session, and a late wave of selling left them near their session lows. The Dow Jones... Read More

December 18, 2017

Investors pushed U.S. equities to new record highs on Monday, excited by the promising outlook for the GOP's tax reform bill. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%), the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.6%), and the S&P 500 (+0.5%) each settled at new all-time highs. However, modest selling in the afternoon left the indices... Read More

December 15, 2017

December 14, 2017

U.S. equities slipped on Thursday as investors continued to monitor tax reform developments in Washington.

Losses were modest for the most part, but small caps showed notable weakness, pushing the Russell 2000 lower by 1.2%. The S&P 500 declined by 0.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite and the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 0.3% apiece. The Dow's loss ended its streak of record closes at four in a row.

December 13, 2017

    U.S. equities finished mostly higher on Wednesday, but financial shares struggled following the Fed's latest policy directive. The Dow Jones Industrial Average settled at a new record high for the fourth session in a row, adding 0.3%.... Read More

December 12, 2017

The U.S. equity market had another positive showing on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing at fresh record highs for the third session in a row. Tuesday's session was, like Monday's, relatively quiet as investors continued to await the Fed's latest policy directive, which will... Read More

December 11, 2017

  Equities quietly climbed to new all-time highs on Monday, with technology and energy shares pacing the advance. The Dow and the S&P 500 added 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively, to finish at new record highs for the second session in a row. The tech-heavy Nasdaq... Read More

December 8, 2017

  U.S. stocks finished the week on a positive note, helped by a favorable Employment Situation Report for November. Both the S&P 500 and the Dow settled at new all-time highs, adding 0.6% and 0.5%, respectively. The Nasdaq finished slightly behind its peers, adding 0.4%,... Read More

December 7, 2017

U.S. equities recouped some of the losses registered earlier in the week on Thursday, with industrial shares pacing the advance. The S&P 500 added 0.3%, as did the Dow Jones Industrial Average, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite outperformed, climbing 0.5%. Small caps showed relative strength,... Read More

December 6, 2017

The major stock indices have been weak in recent sessions, retreating from the record highs they posted last week, as investors dial back their technology holdings at the tail end of what has been an incredible year for the tech sector thus far. The tech group attempted to bounce back... Read More

December 5, 2017

  The S&P 500 (-0.4%) slipped for the third session in a row on Tuesday, with 10 of its 11 sectors finishing in the red. For a while, it appeared that a bounce-back performance from the top-weighted technology sector, which dropped 1.9% on Monday, might... Read More

December 4, 2017

  The major stock indices ended Monday mixed as weakness in technology and health care shares limited the impact of gains elsewhere. Equities opened the day at record highs, but technology shares moved sharply lower soon thereafter. The Dow (+0.2%) still managed to settle at... Read More

December 1, 2017

U.S. equities trimmed weekly gains on Friday, but the prospect of tax reform helped keep losses in check. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 slipped 0.2% apiece, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq dropped 0.4%. For the week, the Dow and the S&P 500 added 2.9% and 1.5%, respectively, while... Read More

November 30, 2017

  U.S. stocks jumped to new record highs on Thursday, fueled by increased optimism regarding the feasibility of a tax overhaul.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 both finished at all-time highs, adding 1.4% and 0.8%, respectively, but some afternoon selling left... Read More

November 29, 2017

    Stocks had a mixed outing on Wednesday as heavy losses in technology shares roughly balanced gains in financials and most other areas. The S&P 500 (unch) finished a tick below its flat line, while the Dow Jones... Read More

November 28, 2017

    Equities ran to new record highs on Tuesday, with the S&P 500's financial sector (+2.6%) leading the advance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 Index climbed 1.1% and 1.0%, respectively, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq... Read More

November 27, 2017

    Equities opened the week with a flat, unenthusiastic performance on Monday following the long Thanksgiving weekend. The S&P 500 Index (unch) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) finished with modest losses, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%)... Read More

November 24, 2017

    The stock market meandered its way through an abbreviated session on Friday and scored modest gains to close out the week.  The bulk of today's gains were registered shortly after the opening bell.  After that, there... Read More

November 22, 2017

    The trading day is done, and for many participants, it was over before it began.  The low trading volume said as much, as did the small changes in the major indices which held to tight trading... Read More

November 21, 2017

Equities sprung to new record highs on Tuesday, with technology shares leading the charge. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+1.1%) outpaced the S&P 500 (+0.7%) and the Dow (+0.7%), but all three major stock indices finished at fresh record highs. The small-cap Russell 2000 (+1.0%) also posted a new all-time high, marking its... Read More

November 20, 2017

    Stocks had a quiet, but positive, start to the abbreviated Thanksgiving week on lighter-than-usual trading volume. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.3%, finishing a step above the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq, which added 0.1% apiece.... Read More

November 17, 2017

 Stocks ended a rather uneventful Friday session modestly lower as investors turned their attention to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday week.

The Dow lost 0.4%, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq dropped 0.3% and 0.2%, respectively. Small caps outperformed, sending the Russell 2000 higher by 0.4%.

Most of the S&P 500's 11 sectors finished Friday in negative territory, but losses were pretty modest overall. The top-weighted technology sector (-0.7%) showed relative weakness, as did the utilities (-0.7%) and real estate (-0.6%) groups, while the other laggards finished with losses of no more than 0.5%.

November 16, 2017

  Stocks bounced back from recent weakness on Thursday, sending the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+1.3%) to a new all-time high. Upbeat earnings reports from Dow components Wal-Mart (WMT 99.62, +9.79) and Cisco Systems (CSCO 35.88, +1.77) helped fuel the upbeat sentiment even before the... Read More

November 15, 2017

    Stocks have extended this week's losses today, dipping into negative territory for the month. Investors have exerted caution after the Senate announced on Tuesday evening that it has added a provision to its tax reform bill that... Read More

November 14, 2017

  Stocks slipped on Tuesday, retracing all of Monday's slim gains, as investors continued to digest the prospect of tax reform—which has been a stumbling block for the market as of late. The major stock indices modestly added to, and trimmed, their opening losses... Read More

November 13, 2017

  Stocks snapped an eight-week winning streak on Friday and are on track to open today's session in negative territory; the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq futures are all hovering 0.3% below fair value. Still, the U.S. equity market is trading just a tick... Read More

November 10, 2017

Doubts about the future of tax reform continued to linger on Friday, but stocks pared opening losses in the afternoon to leave the major U.S. indices little changed. The S&P 500 and the Dow finished with modest losses of 0.1% and 0.2%, respectively, while... Read More

November 9, 2017

    U.S. equities retreated from record highs on Thursday as investors took some profits following a largely uninterrupted two-month rally. The major indices finished near the top of their trading ranges, with the S&P 500 and the... Read More

November 8, 2017

The U.S. equity market held at record highs on Tuesday, ending the session little changed, but looks poised to open Wednesday's session a step below its unchanged mark. The S&P 500 futures are currently trading four points, or 0.2%, below fair value. For the week, the benchmark index is higher... Read More

November 7, 2017

Equities ended Tuesday little changed after heavy losses from financial shares roughly balanced gains in most other areas. The Dow eked out a slim victory—and its fourth consecutive record close—while the S&P 500 finished just a tick below its flat line. The Nasdaq (-0.3%) struggled to keep pace with its... Read More

November 6, 2017

  The U.S. equity market ticked higher on Monday, with all three major indices rewriting the record highs they posted on Friday. The Nasdaq and the S&P 500 added 0.3% and 0.1%, respectively, while the Dow (unch) eked out a narrow victory. The major... Read More

November 3, 2017

Wall Street ended a busy week on a positive note as stocks climbed to new record highs on Friday. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) led the rally following another upbeat earnings report from Apple (AAPL 172.50, +4.39), while the S&P 500 Index (+0.3%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

November 2, 2017

Equities ended Thursday little changed after a late-afternoon rally trimmed modest losses from earlier in the session. The S&P 500 ended a tick above its flat line, while the Nasdaq finished slightly lower and the Dow (+0.4%) outperformed, settling at a new record high.... Read More

November 1, 2017

Equity futures are pointing to a good start for the U.S. equity market this morning as stocks trade higher around the globe. The S&P 500 futures currently trade 11 points, or 0.4%, above fair value, which would place the benchmark index in record territory at the opening bell. Investors will... Read More

October 31, 2017

Equities ticked higher on Tuesday, ending the session near their opening marks. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) outperformed both the S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Dow (+0.1%), finishing at a new record high. Meanwhile, small caps did even better, sending the Russell 2000 higher by 0.8%. The S&P 500's consumer staples sector (+0.8%)... Read More

October 30, 2017

    The U.S. equity market retreated from record highs on Monday as investors engaged in a little profit taking ahead of another busy week. The Nasdaq touched a new record high... Read More

October 27, 2017

  Facing its first weekly loss since the week ended September 8, the stock market rallied on Friday, underpinned by the latest batch of earnings, which featured impressive results from mega-cap names like Amazon (AMZN 1100.95,... Read More

October 26, 2017

    The U.S. equity market claimed a modest victory on Thursday, trimming its loss for the week. Stocks trended sideways for much of the session, but slipped in the final stretch to leave the major indices near... Read More

October 25, 2017

Stocks declined for the second time in three sessions on Wednesday, but an afternoon rally left the major indices a ways above their session lows. The Dow (-0.5%) and the Nasdaq (-0.5%) finished roughly in line with the S&P 500, which lost 0.5%. The benchmark index traded within a wide... Read More

October 24, 2017

  Stocks slipped from record highs on Monday, but look poised to reclaim a portion of their losses at today's opening bell; the S&P 500 futures are trading four points, or 0.2%, above fair value.  Earnings season has heated up this morning and will keep... Read More

October 23, 2017

Stocks moved lower on Monday, ending a week-long stretch of record finishes. The major indices kept near their flat lines throughout the morning, but tumbled to new lows in the afternoon. The S&P 500 lost 0.4%, while the Nasdaq and the Russell 2000 underperformed,... Read More

October 20, 2017

Equity futures are pointing to a higher start for the U.S. equity market, which has settled at a new record close for the last four sessions in a row. The S&P 500 futures are currently trading seven points above fair value and, at that level, the benchmark index is poised... Read More

October 19, 2017

  Stocks clawed their way back from early weakness on Thursday and managed to reach positive territory for the fifth session in a row. The S&P 500 (unch) and the Dow (unch) both posted new record closes thanks to a final push higher in... Read More

October 18, 2017

    The stock market notched another record high on Wednesday, with financials and technology stocks pacing the advance. The Dow added 0.7% and finished comfortably ahead of both the S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq (unch), thanks... Read More

October 17, 2017

Stocks ticked higher for the third session in a row on Tuesday as investors digested another round of earnings. The Dow (+0.2%) traded above the 23,000 mark for the first time in history and eventually settled at a new all-time high. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) also eked out a new... Read More

October 16, 2017

The U.S. equity market started the week on a positive note as all three major indices—the S&P 500 (+0.2%), the Nasdaq (+0.3%), and the Dow (+0.4%)—finished Monday's session at new record highs. Half way through the month of October, the S&P 500 holds... Read More

October 13, 2017

Stocks finished near the bottom of their narrow trading ranges on Friday, but still managed to eke out a narrow victory. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) finished at a new record high while S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Dow (+0.1%) settled just a tick below their record marks. Small caps underperformed, sending... Read More

October 12, 2017

The stock market advanced modestly on Wednesday—settling at a new record high—but looks poised to give back most of that gain this morning as earnings season gets under way. The S&P 500 futures are trading six points, or 0.2%, below fair value. JPMorgan Chase (JPM 96.45, -0.39) delivered its fiscal... Read More

October 11, 2017

The U.S. equity market broke a two-session losing streak with a modest victory on Tuesday, but investors have hit the brakes this morning ahead of the release of the minutes from the September FOMC meeting, which will cross the wires at 14:00 ET. The S&P 500 futures are trading... Read More

October 10, 2017

  Equities got off to a good start this morning, climbing to fresh record highs right off the bat, but have since squandered much of their opening gains. The S&P 500 and the Dow are currently up 0.1% and 0.2%, respectively, but held gains... Read More

October 9, 2017

 Equities opened the week on the back foot, ticking slightly below the record highs they posted at the tail end of last week. The Nasdaq (-0.2%) and the Dow (-0.1%) finished roughly in line with the S&P 500 (-0.2%) while small caps underperformed, sending the Russell 2000 lower by 0.4%. The... Read More

October 6, 2017

  Equity futures are trading roughly in line with fair value this morning as investors await the 8:30 ET release of the September Employment Situation Report (Briefing.com consensus 75K). All three major indices have settled at fresh record highs each day this week and... Read More

October 5, 2017

It's been pretty quiet on Wall Street this week, but equities have continued creeping higher nonetheless, sending the major U.S. indices to new record highs. The stock market is currently on track to open Thursday's session slightly above yesterday's record close as the S&P 500 futures hover two points, or... Read More

October 4, 2017

It was a quiet day on Wall Street, but that didn't stop the stock market from eking out yet another record close. The S&P 500 (+0.1%), the Dow (+0.1%), and the Nasdaq (unch) finished where they resided throughout the majority of the session—just a tick above their flat lines. However,... Read More

October 3, 2017

  Stocks moved higher for the sixth session in a row on Tuesday, but trading was rather dull as the major indices largely trended sideways from start to finish. The Dow (+0.4), the S&P 500 (+0.2%), the Nasdaq (+0.2%), and the Russell 2000 (+0.2%)... Read More

October 2, 2017

The stock market kicked off the week with yet another solid performance that left the Dow (+0.7%), the S&P 500 (+0.4%), the Nasdaq (+0.3%), and the small-cap Russell 2000 (+1.3%) at new record highs. Monday's advance marked the third-consecutive record high close for the S&P 500 and the seventh in... Read More

September 29, 2017

 Equities ended the week, and the quarter, on a positive note, sending the S&P 500 (+0.4%) higher for the fourth session in a row. The benchmark index finished at a new record high, as did the Nasdaq (+0.7%) and the Russell 2000 (+0.1%), while the Dow (+0.1%) settled about eight... Read More

September 28, 2017

  Stocks were restricted to a pretty narrow range on Thursday as investors continued to chew on the GOP's tax reform outline—which was released in the prior session. The Dow (+0.2%), the Nasdaq (unch), and the S&P 500 (+0.1%) all settled with slim gains,... Read More

September 27, 2017

The stock market enters the midweek session lower for the week as Tuesday's bounce-back attempt, which was preceded by a technology sell off on Monday, petered out in the late-afternoon, leaving the major indices little changed. Things are looking up, however, as the S&P 500 futures currently trade six points,... Read More

September 26, 2017

  Equities finished mixed on Tuesday as the broader market largely ignored a modest bounce-back performance from the technology sector (+0.4%)—which moved sharply lower on Monday. The tech-heavy Nasdaq climbed 0.2%, the S&P 500 finished just a tick above its flat line, and the... Read More

September 25, 2017

The U.S. equity market slipped on Monday as investors dialed back their technology holdings with just a few days left in the third quarter. Naturally, the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.9%) was the weakest major average, but found support at its 50-day simple moving average (6,362). Meanwhile, the S&P 500 and the... Read More

September 22, 2017

Friday was another quiet day on Wall Street as the major U.S. indices hovered near their flat lines from start to finish. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) finished just a tick above its unchanged mark, as did the Nasdaq (+0.1%), thanks to a late-afternoon rally that left the benchmark index at... Read More

September 21, 2017

  Thursday was a quiet day on Wall Street as investors engaged in some end-of-quarter profit taking. The Dow slipped 0.2%, failing to close at a new record high for the first time in seven sessions, while... Read More

September 20, 2017

  The major U.S. indices inched to new record highs on Tuesday, marking yet another victory for the stock market, which has been rallying for over a week. Investors have hit pause this morning, however, ahead of the latest FOMC policy directive, which... Read More

September 19, 2017

    Equities moved higher once again on Tuesday, but conviction was weak ahead of the latest FOMC policy statement, which will be released on Wednesday afternoon. The S&P 500 (+0.1%), the Nasdaq (+0.1%), and the Dow... Read More

September 18, 2017

    The U.S. equity market opened the week on a positive note, sending both the S&P 500 (+0.2%) and the Dow (+0.3%) to new all-time highs. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.1%) touched a new intraday high on Monday,... Read More

September 15, 2017

  Equities ticked up on Friday, capping off this week's run to record highs on a positive note. The Dow (+0.3%) advanced to a new-all time high once again, as did the S&P 500 (+0.2%), which settled right at the round mark of 2,500.... Read More

September 14, 2017

The major U.S. indices eked out record-high closes once again on Wednesday following a relatively uneventful range-bound session. Market-moving catalysts remain in short supply again this morning, leaving the S&P 500 futures just a tick below fair value. However, the August CPI reading has the potential to mix things... Read More

September 13, 2017

  The week's bullish momentum petered out on Wednesday, but, thanks to a late-afternoon rally, the S&P 500 (+0.1%), the Nasdaq (+0.1%), and the Dow (+0.2%) still managed to register new record-high closes. The major averages hovered near their flat lines throughout Wednesday's session... Read More

September 12, 2017

Stocks moved higher for the second day in a row on Tuesday, but conviction was much more subdued than it was on Monday when the major averages rose over 1.0% apiece. The S&P 500 climbed 0.3% to notch its second record-high close of the week, while the Nasdaq (+0.3%) and... Read More

September 11, 2017

  The U.S. equity market kicked off the week with a solid bounce-back performance that reclaimed all of last week's decline and sent the S&P 500 (+1.1%) to a new all-time high. Investors happily dialed back their estimates for damages related to Hurricane Irma—which... Read More

September 8, 2017

  The major U.S. indices closed out the abbreviated week on a mixed note as investors looked ahead to the weekend, which could see Hurricane Irma's arrival in Florida and another North Korean missile test in celebration of the country's 69th anniversary. The Dow... Read More

September 7, 2017

 The equity market has managed to keep near its unchanged mark so far on Thursday despite another poor performance from the heavily-weighted financial sector (-1.8%) and a strong risk-off tone within other financial markets. The major averages are currently trading mostly lower with the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Dow... Read More

September 6, 2017

 U.S. equities reclaimed a chunk of Tuesday's swoon on Wednesday as each of the three major indices—the S&P 500, the Dow, and the Nasdaq—settled with modest gains of 0.3% apiece. Small caps finished roughly in line with the broader market, evidenced by the Russell 2000, which climbed 0.2%. For the... Read More

September 5, 2017

The major indices closed off their lows of the session, yet it is fair to say they struggled all day to overcome a panoply of issues that kept buyers mostly sidelined.  The losses were broad based as the major indices closed the day down between 0.8% and 1.1%. The ostensible trigger... Read More

September 1, 2017

    Equities ended another positive week on a positive note as investors took a relatively disappointing August jobs report in stride, pushing the Nasdaq (+0.1%) to a new record high (6,435.33). The S&P 500 and the Dow... Read More

August 31, 2017

  Equities are rallying once again today, putting the S&P 500 on track for its fifth-consecutive win ahead of tomorrow's Employment Situation Report for August, which the Briefing.com consensus expects will show the addition of 183,000 nonfarm payrolls. The Nasdaq (+0.9%) and the Russell... Read More

August 30, 2017

    The S&P 500 (+0.3%) is modestly higher this afternoon, wrestling with its 50-day simple moving average (2,450.96), while the Dow (unch) lags and the Nasdaq (+0.7%) outperforms. Both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq are currently... Read More

August 29, 2017

  The major U.S. indices eked out a victory on Tuesday, overcoming a further tightening of geopolitical tensions following yet another North Korean ballistic missile launch. The Nasdaq (+0.3%) led the advance, followed closely by the Dow (+0.3%), the S&P 500 (+0.1%), and the... Read More

August 28, 2017

  It was a mixed outing on Wall Street to begin the week, as trading volume and conviction were both on the light side.  The Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) and Russell 2000 (+0.4%) were today's winning standouts among the... Read More

August 25, 2017

   Investors pushed the stock market modestly higher on Friday to end a largely positive week on a positive note. The S&P 500 and the Dow added 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq underperformed, shedding 0.1%. For the week, the S&P 500... Read More

August 24, 2017

The U.S. equity market is on track to open Thursday's session slightly higher following yesterday's modest decline. The S&P 500 futures currently trade three points, or 0.1%, above fair value. Top central bankers will kick off a three-day meeting is Jackson Hole, Wyoming today, the climax of which will be Friday... Read More

August 23, 2017

The equity market moved modestly lower on Wednesday amid concerns of a potential government shutdown and following a New York Times article that highlighted a rift between President Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. The Nasdaq (-0.3%) and the Dow (-0.4%) settled roughly in line with the S&P 500, which dropped 0.4%. The major averages closed the session near the bottom of their relatively narrow trading ranges.

August 22, 2017

 The stock market crept higher throughout the first half of Tuesday's session, but has hit some resistance in recent action at the S&P 500's 50-day simple moving average (2,450.20). The benchmark index is currently up 0.8%, hovering between the Nasdaq (+1.1%) and the Dow (+0.7%). Today's session has had a risk-on... Read More

August 21, 2017

  The equity market opened the week with a rather uneventful performance that left the major averages little changed from where they settled last Friday's session. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Dow (+0.1%) both eked out narrow victories while the Nasdaq (-0.1%) slipped... Read More

August 18, 2017

  The major averages finished in negative territory for the second day in a row on Friday, adding to their losses for the week. The Dow led the retreat, losing 0.4%, while the S&P 500 and the... Read More

August 17, 2017

Investors have lacked conviction over the last couple of sessions, leaving the equity market little changed since Monday's rally. It looks like Wall Street might be in for more of the same this morning following a relatively quiet overnight session. The S&P 500 futures currently trade five points, or 0.2%,... Read More

August 16, 2017

The major averages registered modest victories on Wednesday, but their performances felt somewhat disappointing as an optimistic steady climb in the morning turned into a fight to hold on in the afternoon. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) finished slightly above the S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the... Read More

August 15, 2017

Wall Street followed up Monday's rally with a rather dull, range-bound session on Tuesday that left the major averages little changed. The Dow (unch) eked out a narrow victory while the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Nasdaq (-0.1%) each settled just a tick below their unchanged marks. Small caps underperformed,... Read More

August 14, 2017

The weekend came and went without any major developments on the North Korean front, allowing investors to breath a sigh of relief and launch another 'buy-the-dip' campaign on Monday. The major averages finished solidly higher across the board with the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+1.3%) leading the charge. The S&P 500 and... Read More

August 11, 2017

The stock market's three-day slide came to an end on Friday, but just barely, as the S&P 500 (+0.1%) eked out a narrow victory. The Dow (+0.1%) finished in line with the benchmark index while the Nasdaq outperformed, advancing 0.6%. For the week,... Read More

August 10, 2017

  The major averages have been extending their opening losses throughout the first half of Thursday's session with the S&P 500's most influential sectors—technology (-1.6%) and financials (-1.1%)—pacing the retreat. The tech-laden Nasdaq is the weakest index, dropping 1.5%, followed by the S&P 500... Read More

August 9, 2017

Investors took some additional profits on Wednesday as concerns surrounding the continued breakdown of U.S.-North Korea relations weighed on investor sentiment for the second day in a row. However, the cautious tone largely subsided by the day's... Read More

August 8, 2017

Wall Street went on a bit of a roller coaster ride on Tuesday as equities climbed to new record highs in the morning only to drop into the red in the late afternoon. The Dow broke its streak of nine consecutive record-high closes,... Read More

August 7, 2017

 Equities opened the week on a positive note as the S&P 500 (+0.2%) ticked up to a new record high for the first time since July 26. The Dow (+0.1%) also closed at a new record high, marking its ninth-consecutive record close, but the Nasdaq was the... Read More

August 4, 2017

 The major averages eked out another win on Friday following the release of the Employment Situation Report for July, which showed an impressive increase in nonfarm payrolls. The Dow (+0.3%) cruised to its eighth-consecutive record close, finishing a tick above both the S&P 500 (+0.2%) and the Nasdaq (+0.2%). For... Read More

August 3, 2017

The stock market looks poised to open Thursday's session mixed as the S&P 500 futures trade three points, or 0.1%, below fair value while the Nasdaq futures trade five points, or 0.1%, above fair value.   p... Read More

August 2, 2017

Nasdaq futures are trading solidly above fair value this morning, up 35 points or 0.7%, following Apple's (AAPL 158.58, +8.53) upbeat earnings report, which was released following yesterday's closing bell. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 futures trade flat, in line with fair value. p... Read More

August 1, 2017

The equity market registered a modest win on Tuesday as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) climbed to another record close, its fifth in a row. Trading was fairly tight, leaving the S&P 500 (+0.2%) within a seven-point range from start to finish. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) also finished in the... Read More

July 31, 2017

   The stock market ended July's last trading session on a mixed note; the Dow climbed 0.3%, to another record high, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq settled lower by 0.1% and 0.4%, respectively. The major averages drifted within a fairly narrow range... Read More

July 24, 2017

  Equity futures point to a slightly lower open for the stock market this morning. The S&P 500 futures currently trade three points, or 0.1%, below fair value. Oil ministers gathered in St. Petersburg, Russia on Monday... Read More

July 21, 2017

 The major averages rode a late-afternoon rally to fresh session highs, but, unfortunately, it just wasn't quite enough to get them into the green. The Nasdaq (unch) finished just a tick below its flat line, breaking its ten-session winning streak. The S&P 500 (unch) settled in line with the Nasdaq... Read More

July 20, 2017

 The major averages are little changed at midday following yesterday's run to record highs. The Nasdaq (+0.1%) and the S&P 500 (+0.1%) are sporting slim gains while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) hovers a tick below its unchanged mark. The small-cap Russell 2000 (+0.1%) trades in line with the... Read More

July 19, 2017

 The Nasdaq (+0.6%) kept on rolling in the midweek session, cruising to its ninth-consecutive victory—which marks its longest winning streak in two years—and a new all-time high. The S&P 500 (+0.5%), the Dow (+0.3%), and the Russell 2000 (+1.0%) also notched new record closes, finishing at their best marks of... Read More

July 18, 2017

For the first time since June 8, the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.5%) advanced to a new record high on Tuesday as tech stocks continued their bullish run. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) also finished at a new record high while the Dow and the small-cap... Read More

July 17, 2017

 The stock market has been quiet throughout the first half of Monday's session following Friday's trek to new record highs and ahead of this week's big batch of earnings reports. All three major averages currently trade just a tick above their unchanged marks with the S&P 500 showing a gain... Read More

July 14, 2017

   Investor sentiment is subdued in early action as Wall Street digests several influential earnings reports and awaits a wave of potentially-influential economic data. The S&P 500 futures trade one point below fair value.   JPMorgan Chase (JPM 92.20, -0.90) unofficially kicked off earnings season earlier this morning on a positive note,... Read More

July 13, 2017

  Investors have managed to muscle the major averages modestly higher in the first half of Thursday's range-bound session, but conviction is relatively weak with 1.1 listings trading in the red for each advancer. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) and the Dow (+0.2%) trade roughly in... Read More

July 12, 2017

 The stock market is trading solidly higher this afternoon following the release of Fed Chair Janet Yellen's prepared remarks, which investors have seemingly interpreted as being relatively dovish. The major averages are currently hovering in the upper half of their trading ranges with the benchmark S&P 500 sporting a gain... Read More

July 11, 2017

The S&P 500 gave back its slim Monday advance in the second session of the week, dropping 0.1%, with nine of its eleven sectors settling in negative territory. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq (+0.3%) cruised to its second win of the week as technology stocks... Read More

July 10, 2017

 The stock market kicked off the week with a rather uneventful, range-bound session that left the S&P 500 (+0.1%) just a step above its unchanged mark. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) outperformed the benchmark index while the Dow (unch) lagged, settling just a tick below its flat line. The major averages were... Read More

July 7, 2017

Investors rallied around the Employment Situation Report for June on Friday to finish the abbreviated week on a positive note. The Nasdaq led the advance, moving higher by 1.0%, while the S&P 500 and the Dow settled with gains of 0.6% and 0.4%,... Read More

July 6, 2017

 . Equity indices are solidly lower at midday with the S&P 500 showing a loss of 0.5%. However, on a positive note, the benchmark index found support at its 50-day moving average (2,414) after testing it in the opening minutes. The Nasdaq (-0.5%) and... Read More

July 5, 2017

   The benchmark S&P 500 (+0.2%) registered its second win of the week on Wednesday, settling near the top of its trading range, but activity was subdued with only 886.2 million shares changing hands at the NYSE... Read More

July 3, 2017

The major averages ended an abbreviated Monday session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) could not hold its opening gain and spent the session in a steady slide, preventing the broader S&P 500 (+0.2%) from finishing near its own opening high. The limited number of technology stocks in... Read More

June 30, 2017

  The stock market was on track to end Friday on its session high, but quarter-end selling during the final minutes of the action knocked the key indices off their afternoon highs. The S&P 500 added 0.2%, trimming this week's loss to 0.6%, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) underperformed, widening its... Read More

June 29, 2017

 Thursday's session looked eerily similar to Tuesday's session as the top-weighted technology sector (-1.8%) led the S&P 500 (-0.9%) solidly lower, the financials (+0.7%) and energy (+0.1%) sectors outperformed, and Treasuries tumbled across the curve. The Dow (-0.8%) settled roughly in line with the benchmark index while the Nasdaq (-1.4%)... Read More

June 28, 2017

Wall Street registered a solid win on Wednesday as the top-weighted financials (+1.6%) and technology (+1.3%) sectors carried the S&P 500 (+0.9%) back to its flat line for the week. The Nasdaq (+1.4%) outperformed the benchmark index while the Dow (+0.7%) lagged, but... Read More

June 27, 2017

Wall Street took it to the chin on Tuesday as equities sold off into the closing bell, leaving the major averages at their worst marks of the day. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (-1.6%) was hit the hardest as technology and biotechnology stocks weighed. Meanwhile,... Read More

June 26, 2017

   The major averages opened the week on a mixed note as the influential technology (-0.6%) and health care (-0.2%) sectors mitigated gains from seven of the S&P 500's eleven sectors. The benchmark index (unch) eked out a slim victory, as did the Dow... Read More

June 23, 2017

Wall Street ended the week on a positive note as the S&P 500 (+0.2%) cruised to a modest victory on the back of the technology (+0.7%) and energy (+0.8%) sectors. The Nasdaq (+0.5%) and the Russell 2000 (+0.7%) outperformed while the Dow (unch)... Read More

June 22, 2017

 Equity futures are rather subdued this morning following a spiritless performance from the S&P 500 on Wednesday. For the week, the benchmark index trades just a tick above its flat line (+0.1%), but it looks like that small advance may be squandered in the opening minutes of today's session. The... Read More

June 21, 2017

 The S&P 500 (-0.1%) bounced around its unchanged mark throughout the midweek session as the solid performances of the heavily-weighted health care (+1.2%) and technology (+0.7%) sectors helped keep the broader market's loss in check. The Dow (-0.3%) finished a tick behind the benchmark index while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.7%)... Read More

June 20, 2017

 In a nutshell, 'easy come, easy go' sums up Tuesday's session as the stock market gave back nearly all of Monday's climb to new record highs. The Nasdaq (-0.8%) and the Dow (-0.3%) settled on opposite sides of the benchmark S&P 500 (-0.7%) while the small-cap Russell 2000 (-1.1%) underperformed. The... Read More

June 19, 2017

 Wall Street kicked off the week on a positive note as the S&P 500 (+0.8%) bucked its recent sideways trend and advanced to a new record close. The Dow (+0.7%) also settled at a fresh all-time high while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+1.4%) exhibited relative strength as technology and biotechnology stocks... Read More

June 16, 2017

Investors continued to play it safe on Friday, as they have done throughout the week, leaving the major averages little changed. The Dow (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq (-0.2%) settled on opposite sides of the S&P 500 (unch), which finished just a tick above its unchanged mark. For the week, the S&P 500 added 0.1%.

Six of the eleven sectors settled Friday's session in negative territory with the consumer staples sector (-1.0%) leading the retreat following news that Amazon (AMZN 987.71, +23.54) plans to acquire Whole Foods Market (WFM 42.68, +9.62) for $42 per share (27.0% premium) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $13.7 billion.

June 15, 2017

    Investors played it safe on Thursday as they continued to digest Wednesday's rate-hike announcement and some potentially concerning reports from Washington. The S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the Dow (-0.1%) settled a step below their unchanged marks... Read More

June 14, 2017

Equity indices finished Wednesday's session mixed after the FOMC voted to raise interest rates for the second time this year, as expected. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq settled lower by 0.1% and 0.4%, respectively, while the Dow closed higher by 0.2%. p... Read More

June 13, 2017

  Investors pushed the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Dow (+0.4%) to new record highs on Tuesday, breaking the stock market's two-session losing streak. And while the Nasdaq didn't post a new record close, it did outperform its peers with a gain of 0.7%.  The top-weighted... Read More

June 12, 2017

The stock market opened the week with its second-consecutive decline as the top-weighted technology sector (-0.8%) weighed on the broader market. However, as a consolation prize, both the tech sector and the S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished near their best marks of the day.... Read More

June 9, 2017

The major U.S. indices closed the week on a mixed note as a sector rotation trade pitted the top-weighted technology sector (-2.7%) against the financials (+1.9%) and energy (+2.5%) groups. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (-1.8%) finished solidly lower while the S&P 500 (-0.1%) settled just a tick below its unchanged mark.... Read More

June 8, 2017

Equities have ticked up a bit in recent action, but overall, the first half of Thursday's session has been flat and range-bound as investors have focused their attention on Washington, where former FBI Director James Comey just finished testifying before the Senate... Read More

June 7, 2017

 Action has been pretty limited at the macro level so far today as investors hit pause ahead of tomorrow's much anticipated events, which include the UK election, the ECB policy decision, and the testimony of former FBI director James Comey. Recent selling pressure has pulled... Read More

June 6, 2017

   The stock market looked like it might reclaim yesterday's downtick late on Tuesday afternoon, but a sell-off in the final minutes pulled the major U.S. indices off their best marks of the day, leaving the S&P 500 with a loss of 0.3%. The Nasdaq... Read More

June 5, 2017

 Investors played it safe on Monday following back-to-back record closes for the stock market at the end of last week. Action was range-bound from start to finish with the S&P 500 (-0.1%) staying true to a five-point range. The Nasdaq (-0.2%) and the Dow (-0.1%) settled roughly... Read More

June 2, 2017

    The major U.S. indices advanced to new record highs on Friday, for the second day in a row, after investors made the most of a disappointing Employment Situation Report for May. The Nasdaq (+0.9%) led the... Read More

June 1, 2017

  The stock market claimed its first victory of the week in style with the S&P 500 (+0.8%), the Nasdaq (+0.8%), and the Dow (+0.7%) all closing at new record highs. It was also encouraging that the Dow Jones Transportation Average (+1.2%) and the... Read More

May 31, 2017

The S&P 500 (-0.1%) registered its second-consecutive decline on Wednesday as the financial sector (-0.8%) weighed on the broader market. However, a late-afternoon rally left the major averages at the upper end of the day's trading range. The Nasdaq (-0.1%) and the Dow (-0.1%) finished in line with the benchmark... Read More

May 30, 2017

Investors lacked conviction in the first session of the abbreviated week, which made for flat, range-bound action in the stock market on Tuesday. The major U.S. indices settled just a tick below their unchanged marks with the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq slipping... Read More

May 26, 2017

Friday's session was range-bound throughout with the major U.S. indices trending sideways at their unchanged marks from start to finish. The S&P 500 (unch) and the Nasdaq (+0.1%) eked out their seventh-consecutive wins while the Dow (unch)... Read More

May 25, 2017

 The S&P 500 settled at a record high yesterday after the FOMC minutes from the May 2-3 meeting were received well by investors. The benchmark index looks poised to extend its record level this morning with the S&P 500 futures trading five points, or 0.2%, above fair value. OPEC... Read More

May 24, 2017

After four consecutive wins for the equity market, equity futures point to a muted open for Wednesday's session. The S&P 500 futures trade one point above fair value.   Moody's downgraded... Read More

May 23, 2017

Equities finished higher for the fourth day in a row on Tuesday. The benchmark index challenged the 2,400 level, which is the mark it hit just before last Wednesday's dive, but couldn't surpass the milestone. The major averages settled near the middle the... Read More

May 22, 2017

 The stock market is cruising towards its third consecutive win this afternoon with the major averages holding gains across the board. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.7%) leads the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Dow (+0.4%) as tech stocks generally outperform. Ten of eleven sectors trade in positive territory this afternoon with the... Read More

May 19, 2017

  After posting its worst one-day loss in eight months on Wednesday (-1.8%), the stock market ended the week with two bounce-back performances that left the S&P 500 with just a modest loss for the week (-0.4%). The benchmark index challenged its flat line... Read More

May 18, 2017

The major U.S. indices have overcome this morning's bearish tone as investors attempt to 'buy the dip' following yesterday's sell-off. The Nasdaq (+0.5%) and the Dow (+0.2%) trade on opposite sides of the benchmark S&P 500 (+0.3%).   Today's uptick comes in the face of new developments surrounding the investigation into Russia's... Read More

May 17, 2017

The major U.S. indices have experienced a wave of selling pressure today following a New York Times report that President Trump asked then-FBI Director James Comey to end the FBI investigation into former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn. The S&P 500 and the Dow trade lower by 1.1%... Read More

May 16, 2017

Top-tech names like Microsoft (MSFT 69.41, +1.37), Amazon (AMZN 966.07, +8.10), and NVIDIA (NVDA 136.81, +2.50) boosted the Nasdaq (+0.3%) to another record high on Tuesday while the Dow (unch) and the S&P 500 (-0.1%) settled just a tick... Read More

May 15, 2017

The major U.S. indices ended Monday in positive territory with the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Nasdaq (+0.5%) eking out record closes. The Dow (+0.4%) finished at tick behind its peers while the Russell 2000 (+0.8%) ended in the lead. Investors shook off concerns surrounding this weekend's cyber security attack from... Read More

May 12, 2017

The Nasdaq (+0.1%) escaped Friday's session with a win as Apple (AAPL 156.10, +2.15) and Amazon.com (AMZN 961.35, +13.73) climbed to fresh record highs. Meanwhile, the Dow (-0.1%) and the S&P 500 (-0.2%) settled with modest losses. For the week, the S&P 500 declined 0.4%. U.S. Treasuries finished solidly... Read More

May 11, 2017

The major averages slipped out of the gate this morning following a generally disappointing wave of corporate news. However, the indices have been trending upward for the last couple of hours and currently trade near their best marks of the day. The S&P... Read More

May 11, 2017

The major averages slipped out of the gate this morning following a generally disappointing wave of corporate news. However, the indices have been trending upward for the last couple of hours and currently trade near their best marks of the day. The S&P... Read More

May 10, 2017

 The S&P 500 (+0.1%) finished at a new record close (just barely), but the headline is much more exciting than the reality. Wednesday's session was rather quiet at the macro level with the benchmark index hovering within a seven-point range. The Nasdaq (+0.1%) also eked out another record close, its... Read More

May 9, 2017

 The Nasdaq (+0.3%) opened Tuesday's session in positive territory and never looked back, settling at a new record high. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Dow (-0.2%) finished a step below their flat lines as the energy (-0.9%) and financials (-0.5%) sectors weighed. After closing Monday at its lowest level... Read More

May 8, 2017

After settling at fresh record highs on Friday, the S&P 500 (unch) and the Nasdaq (unch) each eked out another record close on Monday. The Dow (unch) also finished just above its unchanged mark while the Russell 2000 (-0.4%) lagged. The final round of the French presidential election went as expected... Read More

May 5, 2017

 The major averages wrapped up the range-bound week with modest Friday gains. The S&P 500 (+0.4%) and the Nasdaq (+0.4%) finished at new record highs while the Dow (+0.3%) settled just a step behind its peers. For the week, the S&P 500 added 0.6%. Buyers had a slight edge from the... Read More

May 4, 2017

Equity futures are drifting higher this morning following reports that the House will vote on health care reform today. The S&P 500 futures trade six points above fair value.   After... Read More

May 3, 2017

The major averages held modest losses throughout Wednesday's session, but a late-afternoon uptick left the S&P 500 (-0.1%) just short of its unchanged mark. The Dow (unch) eked out a small win while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.4%) and the domestically-oriented Russell 2000 (-0.6%)... Read More

May 2, 2017

  Investors chose to play it safe on Tuesday with Apple's (AAPL 147.51, +0.93) quarterly report on tap. As a result, the major averages never really deviated from their unchanged marks with the S&P 500 (+0.1%) trading within a seven-point range. The Nasdaq (+0.1%) settled in line with the benchmark... Read More

May 1, 2017

The stock market opened the week on a positive note with the top-weighted technology (+0.9%) and financials (+0.5%) sectors pacing the advance. The S&P 500 (+0.2%) traded within a ten-point range, settling near its opening level after challenging its all-time closing high (2,395.96).... Read More

April 28, 2017

Investors took some money off the table on Friday, cashing in on the stock market's best week in over two months. However, a handful of upbeat earnings reports from heavy hitters like Alphabet (GOOGL 924.52, +33.08) and Amazon (AMZN 924.99, +6.61) kept losses in check. The S&P 500... Read More

April 27, 2017

The first half of Thursday's session has been relatively quiet as investors continue to digest the nearly 300 earnings reports they've received since yesterday's close. The S&P 500 and the Dow trade just a tick above their flat lines at midday while the... Read More

April 26, 2017

 The stock market is set for a flat opening this morning as investors await the latest tax-related announcement from Washington. The S&P 500 futures trade in line with fair value. Earlier this morning, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin confirmed that President Trump's tax plan, which will be unveiled this afternoon, will call... Read More

April 25, 2017

Bullish catalysts were ripe for the picking on Tuesday as buyers advanced the S&P 500 (+0.6%) for the second time in a row, increasing the benchmark index's week-to-date gain to 1.7%. The Nasdaq (+0.7%) settled a tick higher than the S&P 500 while... Read More

April 24, 2017

 Bulls achieved global dominance on Monday as investors cheered yesterday's first round of the French presidential election. The major U.S. averages opened the week solidly higher with the benchmark S&P 500 adding 1.1% while the Nasdaq and the Dow settled with respective gains of 1.2% and 1.1%. The French people narrowed... Read More

April 21, 2017

The French presidential election, and the uncertainty that surrounds it, weighed on investor sentiment on Friday. However, a batch of positive earnings reports and an update on tax reform plans from Washington helped keep losses in check. The S&P 500 finished with a... Read More

April 20, 2017

Investors turned things around on Thursday to break the stock market out of its two-day slump. The Nasdaq and the Dow settled in line with one another, adding 0.9% apiece. The S&P 500 (+0.8%) also finished solidly higher, but a small slip in... Read More

April 19, 2017

Investors opened Wednesday's session with a modicum of optimism, but the positive sentiment seeped through the cracks, leaving the S&P 500 (-0.2%) lower for the second consecutive session. The Dow also settled in negative territory, losing 0.6%, while the Nasdaq (+0.2%) outperformed. Read More

April 18, 2017

 The bears took game two in this week's series after the latest batch of earnings reports failed to generate much conviction among the bulls. The Dow got hit the hardest, losing 0.6%, while the S&P 500 (-0.3%) and the Nasdaq (-0.1%) experienced more modest declines. Equities opened Tuesday in negative territory... Read More

April 17, 2017

 The financial sector (+1.6%), and the broader market, opened the week with a nice bounce-back performance as participants returned in a buying frame of mind following the extended Easter weekend. The S&P 500 (+0.9%) finished in-line with the Dow (+0.9%) and the Nasdaq (+0.9%) and closed at its high for... Read More

April 13, 2017

 The stock market wrapped up the abbreviated week with its third consecutive loss as investors refused to be swayed by a handful of bullish catalysts. The major averages settled at the lower end of the day's trading range with the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.5%) finishing just a step ahead of the... Read More

April 12, 2017

 The bears edged the bulls from the jump on Wednesday with geopolitics fueling the cautious sentiment. The S&P 500 (-0.4%) finished below its 50-day moving average (2351), which has been a mainstay of support since the election. The Dow (-0.3%) and the Nasdaq (-0.5%) settled on opposite sides of the... Read More

April 11, 2017

Geopolitical tensions spooked investors on Tuesday, but the S&P 500's 50-day moving average provided support to keep losses in check. The Dow (unch) and the Nasdaq (-0.2%) settled on opposite sides of the benchmark index (-0.1%) while the small-cap Russell 2000 (+0.7%) outperformed. p... Read More

April 10, 2017

The stock market opened the week with a win, but concerns over heightened geopolitical tensions held gains in check throughout the session. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq settled with slim gains of 0.1% apiece, while the... Read More

April 7, 2017

There was a lot to talk about on Friday, but the market was not sure what to make of it all, as stocks slipped out of the gate, but spent the day in a slow climb to end little changed. The S&P 500... Read More

April 6, 2017

The major averages registered modest gains on Thursday, keeping the S&P 500 (+0.2%) several points above its 50-day moving average (2346). The benchmark index settled near the middle of the day's range while the Nasdaq and Dow added 0.3% and 0.1%, respectively. Also... Read More

April 5, 2017

Stocks started strong out of the gate following an upbeat ADP Employment Change Report on Wednesday morning, but the hawkish tone of the FOMC Minutes prompted an afternoon retreat. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.3% while the Dow (-0.2%) performed... Read More

April 4, 2017

  Uncertainty put a force field around the stock market on Tuesday, deterring the bulls and the bears from exerting much influence on the major averages. The Dow (+0.2%) and the Nasdaq (+0.2%) settled roughly in line with the S&P 500 (+0.1%), which held... Read More

April 3, 2017

 An afternoon rally erased much of the stock market's morning loss, but it just wasn't enough to bring the major averages all the way back to their unchanged marks. The S&P 500 opened the second quarter of 2017 with a modest loss of 0.2% while the Nasdaq and the Dow... Read More

March 31, 2017

The stock market secured its best first quarter performance in four years on Friday, but it did so in a rather spiritless manner as the major averages held close to their unchanged marks from start to finish. The S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the Dow (-0.3%)... Read More

March 30, 2017

 The financial sector (+1.2%) nudged the broader market into positive territory on Thursday as the bulls couldn't resist bank stocks in light of last week's dip. The three major U.S. averages settled with gains of 0.3% apiece while the small-cap Russell 2000 (+0.8%) outperformed. In a day short on headlines, investors... Read More

March 29, 2017

 Tuesday's positive sentiment lingered throughout Wednesday's session as the benchmark S&P 500 (+0.1%) chalked up its second win of the week. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) also settled higher while the Dow (-0.2%) finished a tad lower. While the macro movement was rather subdued on Wednesday, a variety of catalysts mixed things up... Read More

March 28, 2017

 Last Tuesday, the S&P 500 posted its worst day of 2017 in a performance that some believed to be the end of the stock market's post-election party. However, the cash market held its ground in the days that followed and the S&P 500 resisted yesterday's intraday dip below its 50-day... Read More

March 27, 2017

Last week's health care hiccup fostered some bearish undertones on Monday morning, but investors were largely able to shake off the concerns to start the week unscathed. The Nasdaq settled 0.2% higher while the S&P 500 and the Dow finished with losses of... Read More

March 24, 2017

The major averages opened Friday with modest gains as investors were cautiously optimistic that the American Health Care Act would pass in the House. However, that positive sentiment faded as the day wore on and reports from Washington indicated that the GOP still hadn't acquired the necessary votes. In the end, the health care bill was pulled from consideration and the major averages finished mixed. The S&P 500 (-0.1%) settled just below its unchanged mark while the Dow (-0.3%) and the Nasdaq (+0.2%) closed on opposite sides of the benchmark index.

March 23, 2017

The stock market had a decent rebound try going for much of Thursday's session, but it fell to the wayside in the afternoon after reports that the House vote on the American Health Care Act, which was scheduled for tonight, will be delayed.... Read More

March 22, 2017

Wednesday's session was full of ambiguity as investors digested the stock market's Tuesday defeat, which was the steepest decline since October. Stocks ultimately put together a decent performance, but the win didn't feel secure until the closing bell as the financial sector (-0.2%) acted in a seesaw fashion that weighed on the sentiment of the broader market. The S&P 500 (+0.2%) and the Nasdaq (+0.5%) settled with modest gains while the Dow finished flat. Meanwhile, the small-cap Russell 2000 (-0.1%) underperformed.

March 21, 2017

Investors attempted to make the most out of some positive overnight developments on Tuesday morning, but a modest gain at the opening bell was the straw that broke the back of a stock market that may have extended itself a little too far.... Read More

March 20, 2017

 The stock market couldn't find any room to run on Monday as the bears wrapped it up behind the line of scrimmage for a modest loss. The S&P 500 finished 0.2% lower while the Dow (unch) and the Nasdaq (unch) ended just a step ahead. Meanwhile, the small-cap Russell 2000... Read More

March 17, 2017

Defying the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, the major averages failed to turn shamrock green, closing just a 'wee bit' below their flat lines. The Nasdaq finished flat while the S&P 500 and the Dow closed with losses of 0.1% apiece. p style="margin: 0in... Read More

March 16, 2017

Wednesday's bullish momentum lingered at the opening bell on Thursday, but the energy faded fast as investors came up short on reasons to extend the stock market's record high level. The S&P 500 and the Dow closed with losses of 0.2% and 0.1%,... Read More

March 15, 2017

As expected, the Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise the fed funds target range by 25 basis points to 0.75%-1.00% on Wednesday. More notably, the Fed still believes that three rate hikes are appropriate for 2017, relieving investors' fears that the central... Read More

March 14, 2017

 Crude oil was a persuasive force in the stock market on Tuesday, leading the major averages into negative territory after OPEC's latest Monthly Oil Market Report (MOMR) showed some concerning production figures out of Saudi Arabia. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq lost 0.3% apiece while the Dow (-0.2%)... Read More

March 13, 2017

A belated winter storm stirred up an extreme case of the Mondays as investors left the major averages largely unchanged to start the week. The S&P 500 finished the session relatively flat while the Nasdaq (+0.2%) and the Dow (-0.1%) closed on opposite... Read More

March 10, 2017

 A rate hike at next week's FOMC meeting appears to be a mere formality following the better than expected Employment Situation Report for February, which crossed the wires early Friday morning. That seemed to be alright with investors as they pushed the major averages higher to finish a slightly... Read More

March 9, 2017

The bulls and the bears slugged it out on Thursday until the energy sector (+0.6%) gave the bulls a slight edge in the final stretch. The S&P 500 finished with a slim 0.1% gain while the Nasdaq and the Dow closed flat. Meanwhile,... Read More

March 8, 2017

 Crude oil ($50.40/bbl) stole the spotlight on Wednesday, plunging 5.3%, after the latest Energy Information Administration (EIA) inventory report showed a much higher build than the consensus estimate (8.2 million vs 2.0 million est.). The major averages held their ground for some time amid the energy... Read More

March 7, 2017

Tuesday's session was largely uneventful as market-moving catalysts were in short supply. The major averages trended just below their flat lines for the majority of the session, but a late afternoon sell-off left them near their worst levels of the day. The Nasdaq (-0.3%) finished in line with the S&P... Read More

March 6, 2017

A morning sell-off was met with a slight uptick in buying interest on Monday afternoon, leaving the major averages with modest losses to start the new week on lower-than-average trading volume. The Dow finished lower by 0.2% while the S&P 500 (-0.3%) and Nasdaq (-0.4%) performed slightly worse. Small-caps were... Read More

March 3, 2017

The major averages finished Friday's session near their unchanged marks as investors digested the latest remarks from Fed Chair Janet Yellen. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) outperformed while the S&P 500 (+0.1%) finished with a slim gain. The Dow closed the day unchanged.

The U.S. dollar retreated in the wake of Ms. Yellen's comments, nearly doubling its earlier loss. The U.S. Dollar Index (101.35, -0.81) finished Friday lower by 0.8%.

March 2, 2017

The major averages took a dip on Thursday as they cooled off from their red hot Wednesday performance. The S&P 500 finished the day 0.6% lower.  The Dow (-0.5%) performed slightly better and the Nasdaq (-0.7%) closed a tad behind.  The Russell 2000 (-1.3%), meanwhile, suffered the largest loss after... Read More

March 1, 2017

President Trump's first address to Congress appeared to be a hit, at least among investors, as traders confidently pushed the major averages to fresh record highs on Wednesday. The Dow (+1.5%) finished just slightly ahead of the benchmark S&P 500 (+1.4%) and the Nasdaq (+1.4%), while the small-cap Russell 2000 (+1.9%) outperformed.

It wasn't necessarily 'what' Mr. Trump said on Tuesday evening that fueled investors' confidence, it was 'how' he said it. The new president looked, well, 'presidential', a good sign that his controversial style can be toned-down when need be. More importantly, he showed investors that he is committed to getting his pro-growth promises through Congress, even if it means a little compromise.

February 28, 2017

Investors took some money off the table after a strong month and ahead of President Trump's first prime-time address to Congress, which is scheduled for tonight at 9:00 pm ET. The S&P 500 (-0.3%) and the Dow (-0.1%) held slim losses throughout the day's session, while the Nasdaq's (-0.6%) slip was a bit more substantial. Meanwhile, the Russell 2000 finished with a sizable loss of 1.4%. For the month, the Dow gained 4.8% while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 added 3.8% and 3.7%, respectively.

President Trump is expected to touch on variety of topics in his speech, including tax reform, infrastructure spending, health care, military spending, and border security, but it is unclear if Mr. Trump will share any specific details on anything other than his defense budget.

February 27, 2017

  Investors cautiously nudged the major averages higher on Monday in another afternoon rally that has become almost expected as of late. The Dow (+0.1%) closed at a fresh record high for the 12th consecutive time, while the S&P 500 (+0.1%) posted a fresh record high of its own. The Nasdaq... Read More

February 24, 2017

February 23, 2017

 Investors have navigated a wave of information in the first half of Thursday's session with caution, leaving the benchmark S&P 500 index flat at midday. The Dow (+0.2%) outperforms while the Nasdaq (-0.5%) and the small-cap Russell 2000 (-0.9%) hold solid losses.

 The Nasdaq has taken a blow from chipmakers today with NVIDIA (NVDA 101.35, -9.45) leading the retreat. The company has plunged 8.6% after analysts from both BMO Capital and Instinet downgraded NVDA shares this morning. The PHLX Semiconductor Index trades lower by 1.5%.

February 22, 2017

Investors tapped the brakes on Wednesday, displaying slight caution amid a wave of potentially influential economic reports. The Nasdaq (-0.1%) closed in line with the S&P 500 (-0.1%) while the Dow outperformed (+0.2%), recording its ninth consecutive gain.

The major averages started today's session with modest losses, but they ticked up following Existing Home Sales for January. The report came in better than expected, showing an annualized rate of 5.69 million units while the Briefing.com consensus expected a reading of 5.57 million.

February 21, 2017

Last week's bullish sentiment carried over into the first session of the new week as investors decidedly pushed the stock market to new record highs on Tuesday. The S&P 500 (+0.6%) and the Dow (+0.6%) led the advance with the Nasdaq (+0.5%) closing... Read More

February 17, 2017

Buyers showed up late to the party on Friday but were still able to recoup modest morning losses and push the major averages to fresh record highs. The uptick during the final hour prevented a mixed finish with the Nasdaq (+0.3%) and the... Read More

February 16, 2017

 Investors took a breather on Thursday, pulling the S&P 500 and Nasdaq away from their freshly-minted record highs after seven consecutive advances. The pullback was modest in scope, leaving the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq lower by 0.2% while the Dow (unch) resisted, eking out a slight gain. The Treasury market,... Read More

February 15, 2017

Equity indices marched through a stockpile of economic data to new record highs on Wednesday as the S&P 500 (+0.5%) posted its seventh consecutive advance. The Dow (+0.5%) finished in line with the benchmark index while the Nasdaq (+0.6%) closed a step ahead. p... Read More

February 14, 2017

Equity markets are taking a breather after setting yet another record high yesterday and ahead of Fed Chair Janet Yellen's testimony on Capital Hill today. The S&P 500 futures trade one point above fair value.

Ms. Yellen will be delivering her semiannual monetary policy report to the Senate Banking Committee today at 10:00 am ET. Investors will be tuned in, looking for indications regarding the timing of the next rate hike from the FOMC.

U.S. Treasuries face modest selling pressure ahead of Fed Chair Yellen's report. The benchmark 10-yr yield is up one basis point at 2.44%.

February 13, 2017

  Another day, another record close for the major averages. The key indices backed away from their best levels during afternoon action, but still kept the bulk of their gains. The Dow (+0.7%) led the day's advance while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq... Read More

February 10, 2017

February 9, 2017

 Stagnant no more, the major averages finished Thursday's session at fresh record highs. The S&P 500, Nasdaq, and the Dow closed with gains of 0.6%, while the small-cap Russell 2000 (+1.4%) outperformed. Visions of tax reform drove today's advance after President Trump promised to make a "phenomenal" tax-related announcement in the... Read More

February 8, 2017

The major averages finished Wednesday's session flat, but mixed as the S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq (+0.2%) closed with modest gains while the Dow (-0.2%) underperformed. In a day short on economic data, earnings reports made the biggest splash with a slew of companies reporting their quarterly results between yesterday's... Read More

February 7, 2017

 Minimal movement on Monday set the tone for Tuesday's flat finish as the major averages closed the day relatively unchanged in what was a range-bound trading session. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) and the Dow (+0.2%) eked out small gains while the S&P 500 finished right at its flat line.

Countercyclical sectors had a slight advantage during Tuesday's session with four of the five posting gains. Consumer staples (+0.8%) finished atop the day's leaderboard with Church & Dwight (CHD 47.27, +1.82) adding 4.0% after reporting better than expected earnings and raising its dividend.

On the cyclical side, technology (+0.4%) outpaced the benchmark index on the back of another solid showing from Apple (AAPL 131.53, +1.24). Industrials (+0.2%) were the only other cyclical sector to finish the day higher, rallying around the 4.5% jump in shares of Emerson Electric (EMR 62.54, +2.68). The company beat top and bottom line estimates and issued upbeat guidance for 2017.

February 6, 2017

Monday's session ended roughly where it began as investors opted to play it safe, leaving the major averages just below their all-time highs. The Dow (-0.1%) and the Nasdaq (-0.1%) closed just ahead of the S&P 500 (-0.2%), while the small-cap Russell 2000 (-0.8%) underperformed.

An uptick in the Treasury market pointed to a risk-off sentiment among investors. The benchmark 10-yr yield closed five basis points lower at 2.41% as the Trump administration's timing of corporate tax reform and increased infrastructure spending, two factors that fueled the post-election rally, remains unclear.

On the earnings front, Tyson Foods (TSN 63.13, -2.26), Sysco (SYY 51.20, -1.34), Newell Brands (NWL 44.23, -2.66), and Hasbro (HAS 94.31, +11.68)

February 3, 2017

 Friday's economic data gave investors the confidence to finally break the week's sideways trend and push the stock market higher. The major averages hit their session highs within an hour of the opening bell and maintained said levels into the close. The S&P 500 finished with a gain of 0.7%,... Read More

February 2, 2017

Investors held their ground again on Thursday, as the major averages failed to deviate from their flat lines in range-bound action. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) finished just above its flat line, while the Nasdaq (-0.1%) closed just a tick lower. The sideways action... Read More

February 1, 2017

Pockets of strength kept the S&P 500 near its flat line on Wednesday despite investors' lack of buying conviction. The S&P 500 finished flat while the Nasdaq (+0.5%) and Dow Jones industrial Average (+0.1%) ended modestly higher thanks to a huge move in shares of Apple (AAPL 129.92, +8.57,... Read More

January 31, 2017

 Investors continued hedging their investment risk on Tuesday, choosing to play it safe in the wake of last week's record high levels and amid a week full of influential reports on both the earnings and economic fronts. However, an afternoon rally helped the major averages finish at their highest levels... Read More

January 30, 2017

Investors decided to err on the side of caution to open a week full of earnings reports and influential economic data. The S&P 500 finished the day lower by 0.6%, while the Nasdaq (-0.8%) closed just a tick below the benchmark index.

Equity indices faced broad-based selling pressure from the start of Monday's session, with many fingers pointing to President Trump's executive order, which suspended the U.S. refugee program and temporarily restricted nationals of seven countries--Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen--from entering the United States, as the driver of the bearish tone.

January 27, 2017

It appears that investors ran out of ink after rewriting the record book during Wednesday's session as the major averages closed the week relatively unchanged from those record levels. The S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished Friday's session just below its flat line, while the... Read More

January 26, 2017

 Investors were very selective of their pitches when they stepped up to the plate on Thursday, ultimately choosing to take ball four rather than risking a swing and miss. Despite news, earnings, and economic data, the major averages finished in the neighborhood of where they began, with the S&P 500... Read More

January 25, 2017

Investors methodically pushed the major averages to record highs on Wednesday, with the Dow climbing past the 20k milestone along the way. All indices finished the day solidly higher, collectively signaling that the post-election rally isn't dead just yet. The S&P 500 closed... Read More

January 24, 2017

 Slow and steady was the theme on Tuesday as the major averages opened flat and advanced throughout the duration of the session to close solidly higher. The Nasdaq (+0.9%) picked up steam in the afternoon to finish a step ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.7%), while the small-cap Russell 2000... Read More

January 23, 2017

  Equity indices opened the week on a down note, unable to overcome the uncertainty surrounding the transfer of political power in Washington D.C. An afternoon rebound helped the market erase a portion of its loss, but the S&P 500 still finished lower by... Read More

January 20, 2017

 The rubber has finally met the road as Donald Trump became the 45th President of the United States on Friday. It will now be up to his administration to live up to the post-election hype that pushed the stock market up nearly 7.0% between... Read More

January 19, 2017

A wait-and-see attitude lingered throughout today's trading session, but the rubber will finally meet the road tomorrow when Donald Trump becomes the 45th President of the United States and gets a chance to deliver on promises that drove the stock market to a... Read More

January 18, 2017

 Wednesday's trading session closed in the neighborhood of where it opened as investors generally elected to watch rather than act amid a batch of economic data and a slew of corporate news. The major averages finished mixed with the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq adding 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively, while... Read More

January 17, 2017

 The major averages opened the shortened week on a losing note, succumbing to profit-taking activity in the face of some political angst. The S&P 500 finished Tuesday's session 0.3% lower, while the Nasdaq (-0.6%) and Russell 2000 (-1.4%) underperformed, weighed down principally by losses in the financial, semiconductor, transportation, and... Read More

January 13, 2017

  The major averages finished Friday's session mixed. The S&P 500 (+0.2%) and the Nasdaq (+0.5%) closed in the green, while the Dow (unch) finished in the red.   Investors had high... Read More

January 12, 2017

Equity indices finished Thursday's session lower amid a cautious tone on all fronts. The Dow led the retreat with a loss of 0.3%, while the benchmark S&P 500 index (-0.2%) registered a slimmer loss. The risk-off trade began with heavy selling pressure that pushed the stock market into negative territory at... Read More

January 11, 2017

The major averages closed Wednesday's session in the green with the S&P 500 adding 0.3%. The Dow outperformed the benchmark index with a 0.5% gain.   The stock market held a... Read More

January 10, 2017

  The major averages ended Tuesday's session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) finished out front, followed by the S&P 500 (unch) and the Dow (-0.2%). Today's session got off to a flat start after some retailers and restaurants issued disappointing guidance. The cautions... Read More

January 9, 2017

Equity indices closed Monday's session mixed. The Nasdaq (+0.2%) posted a modest gain, while the S&P 500 finished lower by 0.4%.   With news and economic data limited, the benchmark index... Read More

January 6, 2017

The stock market closed the week on a higher note, with the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq finishing Friday's session higher by 0.4% and 0.6%, respectively. The Dow (+0.3%) finished the day 34 points shy of the elusive 20k mark after coming within... Read More

January 5, 2017

The stock market finished Thursday just below its flat line as the S&P 500 shed 0.1%. The Nasdaq outperformed, adding a modest 0.2%.

Stocks were abe to overlook the red flags in other markets during the opening hour, but selling interest picked up soon thereafter. The S&P 500 saw a ten-point dip in the late morning amid defensive action in other asset classes. However, the slip, which came ahead of tomorrow's release of the Employment Situation Report for December (Briefing.com consensus 175K), was largely erased by the close.

January 4, 2017

The stock market ended Wednesday on a higher note, ending just below its session high. The S&P 500 finished higher by 0.6%, while the Nasdaq (+0.9%) outperformed the benchmark index. The Dow (+0.3%) will begin Thursday's session within striking distance of the 20k mark. Read More

January 3, 2017

The stock market began the new year on a higher note, but the bulk of today's advance took place during the initial minutes of the session. The S&P 500 added 0.9% after being up 1.1% during the opening hour.

December 30, 2016

The stock market spent the final session of the year in a steady retreat. The S&P 500 lost 0.5%, narrowing its 2016 gain to 9.5%. The Nasdaq (-0.9%) underperformed, trimming this year's advance to 7.5%. The bulk of the day saw below-average trading volume, but... Read More

December 29, 2016

The stock market ended Thursday on a slightly lower note after spending the day inside a narrow range. The S&P 500 ended just below its flat line while the Nasdaq (-0.1%) underperformed throughout the session. Equity indices displayed some strength at the start, but the... Read More

December 28, 2016

 The stock market spent the entire midweek session in a daylong retreat, which sent the S&P 500 lower by 0.8%. The benchmark index settled behind the Nasdaq Composite (-0.9%) and the Russell 2000 (-1.1%). Once again, today's trading volume was below average with just 735 million shares changing hands at the... Read More

December 27, 2016

 The stock market enjoyed a modest post-holiday advance, which was paced by the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%). The tech-heavy index settled ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.2%) while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) ended just above its flat line. The bulk of today's action took place during the opening minutes as... Read More

December 23, 2016

'Twas two nights before Christmas, when all through the trading house, Not a sentient creature was stirring about, no one clicking their mouse;   A... Read More

December 22, 2016

The stock market recorded its second consecutive loss on Thursday, but once again, investor participation was on the light side as some participants decided to sit out the pre-holiday session. The S&P 500 shed 0.2% while the Nasdaq (-0.4%) underperformed. Small caps faced... Read More

December 21, 2016

     The stock market endured a quiet pre-holiday session that was confined to negative territory. The S&P 500 shed 0.3% while small caps underperformed, leading to a 0.7% retreat in the Russell 2000. All in all, the Wednesday affair had all the hallmarks of pre-holiday... Read More

December 20, 2016

 The stock market registered its second consecutive advance, but intraday price action followed yesterday's pattern, suggesting the post-election rally may be running out of steam. The S&P 500 hit a session high shortly after the open, but narrowed its gain to 0.4% by the close. The key indices raced out of... Read More

December 19, 2016

The stock market avoided its second consecutive decline thanks to a Monday session that was underscored by daylong strength in the top-weighted technology sector (+0.6%). The S&P 500 added 0.2% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) outperformed throughout the day. Read More

December 16, 2016

  The stock market registered a modest decline on Friday to end the week on a slightly lower note. The S&P 500 shed 0.2%, ending the week lower by 0.1%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.04%) also posted a Friday loss, but gained 0.4%... Read More

December 15, 2016

The stock market avoided its second consecutive decline, but not before seeing some afternoon selling that may have startled investors who have gotten accustomed to the near-daily ascent to new record highs. The S&P 500 gained 0.4%, erasing roughly half of its post-FOMC decline. Equities started Thursday on an upbeat... Read More

December 14, 2016

It's Fed day and U.S. equity futures are little changed in anticipation of today's FOMC Policy Statement and press conference. Action is likely to remain subdued ahead of the Fed release. Market participants are pretty much fully expecting the FOMC to raise the target range for the fed funds... Read More

December 14, 2016

 The stock market ended the midweek session on a lower note, extending its retreat after the Federal Open Market Committee announced a 25-basis point rate hike. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.8% while the Russell 2000 (-1.2%) underperformed. Going into today's session, market participants were all but sure that the... Read More

December 13, 2016

The stock market followed its Monday downtick with a Tuesday surge that lifted the key indices to new record highs. The S&P 500 gained 0.7% while the Nasdaq (+1.0%) outperformed ahead of tomorrow's FOMC policy statement, which will be released at 14:00 ET and is expected to call for... Read More

December 12, 2016

The S&P 500 (-0.1%) began the week with a modest downtick to register its first decline in seven sessions. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) underperformed while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%) eked out a slim gain. The new trading week was headlined by news from... Read More

December 9, 2016

The stock market wrapped up a strong week with another uptick on Friday. The S&P 500 gained 0.6%, extending its weekly advance to 3.1% while the Nasdaq Composite rose 0.5% to end the week higher by 3.6%.

Overall, the Friday affair was fairly quiet, allowing the market to continue respecting post-election trends. To be fair, small caps underperformed today, but the Russell 2000 (+0.1%) still ended the week ahead of other indices, jumping 5.6%.

December 8, 2016

The stock market secured its fifth consecutive advance with the S&P 500 rising 0.2% to extend this week's advance to 2.5%. True to this week's form, small caps outperformed, sending the Russell 2000 higher by 1.6%. The... Read More

December 7, 2016

  The stock market enjoyed its fourth consecutive day of gains with the S&P 500 rising 1.3% to a fresh record high. The benchmark index settled ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (+1.1%), which lagged since the start. Equity indices started the day near their flat... Read More

December 6, 2016

The stock market registered its third consecutive advance on Tuesday with the S&P 500 rising 0.3% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) outperformed slightly. Once again, the trading day was very quiet, but once again, that did not stop the market from inching higher. Investor sentiment remained upbeat despite the weekend failure... Read More

December 5, 2016

 The stock market began the week on a higher note with the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) showing relative strength on Monday. The tech-heavy index settled ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.6%), but both marked their highs during the initial hour, spending the afternoon inside narrow ranges. Equity indices enjoyed an upbeat start,... Read More

December 2, 2016

The stock market ended a down week on a flat note. The S&P 500 surrendered a seven-point gain to end just above its flat line. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.0%, the Nasdaq fell 2.7%, and the Dow ticked up 0.1%.... Read More

December 1, 2016

The stock market ended Thursday on a mixed note ahead of Friday's Employment Situation report for November (Briefing.com consensus 180,000). The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%) continued its recent outperformance while the S&P 500 (-0.4%) and Nasdaq (-1.4%) ended in negative territory for... Read More

November 30, 2016

 The stock market closed a strong month on a sloppy note as the S&P 500 (-0.3%) spent the day in a retreat from its opening high. The benchmark index narrowed its November gain to 3.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) underperformed, but still added 2.6% for the month. The Dow... Read More

November 29, 2016

    The major averages hover near their highs at midday with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) trading just ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.3%). Equity indices have spent the first half of today's affair in a slow, but steady, updraft that has been underpinned by strength... Read More

November 28, 2016

 The stock market began the week on a lower note as the major averages consolidated after their post-election run. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) settled slightly behind the S&P 500 (-0.5%). The domestically-oriented Russell 2000 (-1.3%), however, snapped a 15 session win streak. Participants favored a... Read More

November 25, 2016

The stock market endured a lazy, upward drift on Friday to end the abbreviated post-holiday session on a modestly higher note. The S&P 500 added 0.4%, extending its weekly advance to 1.4%. The benchmark index will enter the final three days of the... Read More

November 23, 2016

 The stock market ended the pre-holiday affair on a flat note despite a deluge of economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%). It is also worth noting that the domestically-oriented Russell 2000 (+0.5%) extended its winning streak... Read More

November 22, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a modestly higher note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%), Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%), and S&P 500 (+0.2%) carving out fresh record highs. The domestically-oriented Russell 2000 (+0.9%) also... Read More

November 21, 2016

The stock market began an abbreviated week on a higher note as the three major averages notched new all-time closing highs. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.8%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.5%). The Russell 2000 (+0.4%)... Read More

November 18, 2016

 The stock market ended an upbeat week on a modestly lower note as the major averages consolidated after an impressive post-election run. The S&P 500 lost 0.2%, narrowing its weekly gain to 0.8%. Separately, the Russell 2000 (+0.5%) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) outperformed, rising a respective 2.6% and 1.6%... Read More

November 17, 2016

 The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a modestly higher note as investors assessed the latest battery of economic data. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) finished ahead of both the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%). Participants expanded their bets on an improving economy as increased inflation... Read More

November 16, 2016

 The major averages ended the midweek affair on a mixed note as investors continued to fine-tune their post-election positioning. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%). The three indices are now up between 2.0% and 4.0% in November. Equity indices... Read More

November 15, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a higher note as investors continued to adjust their post-election positioning. The Nasdaq Composite (+1.1%) finished well ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.8%) while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) lagged, but still notched its... Read More

November 14, 2016

The stock market trades on a mostly lower note at midday as investors take some profits from the huge, post-election rally. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) trades behind the S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%). The Russell 2000, however, remains... Read More

November 11, 2016

The stock market ended an extremely strong week on a fairly solid note as the post-election rally effort was maintained for the most part. The S&P 500 slipped just 0.1% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended with a gain of 0.2%. The two indices locked in respective weekly advances... Read More

November 10, 2016

 The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a mixed note as investors continued adjusting their positions in preparation for a Donald Trump presidency. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.2%) notched a new all-time high while the S&P 500 (+0.2%) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.8%) finished behind the price-weighted average. Equity... Read More

November 9, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a broadly higher note as participants re-positioned to account for a Donald Trump presidency. Mr. Trump recorded an upset victory against Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton last evening. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.4%) finished ahead of both the S&P 500 (+1.1%)... Read More

November 8, 2016

The major averages ended the Tuesday affair on a modestly higher note as participants awaited tonight's conclusion of a contentious US election cycle. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) finished ahead of both the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%) and the S&P 500 (+0.4%). p style="margin:... Read More

November 7, 2016

The stock market began the week on a broadly higher note as diminished political uncertainty boosted risk appetite ahead of tomorrow's US presidential race. The Nasdaq Composite (+2.4%) finished slightly ahead of both the S&P 500 (+2.2%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+2.1%). The benchmark index avoided a tenth consecutive... Read More

November 4, 2016

The stock market finished a downbeat week on a flat note as the S&P 500 (-0.2%) surrendered its intraday gain to extend its losing streak to nine sessions. The benchmark index only declined 1.9% over that period, but this is the longest string of losses since December 1980. The Dow... Read More

November 3, 2016

The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a lower note as the S&P 500 (-0.4%) retreated for the eighth consecutive session. Sellers remained more eager than buyers as falling oil prices, persistent political uncertainty, and weakness in the technology (-1.0%) and health... Read More

November 2, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a lower note as US election jitters overshadowed a largely in-line policy directive from the Federal Reserve. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.9%) finished behind the S&P 500 (-0.7%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.4%). p style="margin:... Read More

November 1, 2016

 The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a lower note as equities endured a broad-based selloff. The downturn was stoked by rising political uncertainty, further losses in crude oil, volatility in the Treasury market, and weakness in the heavily-weighted technology (-0.8%) and consumer discretionary (-0.8%) sectors. The Russell 2000... Read More

October 31, 2016

 The major averages finished the month on a flat note, settling with monthly losses across the board. Participants preferred a cautious approach at the beginning of the week as a glut of earnings reports and economic data remained in sight. The Nasdaq Composite was little changed, ending October down 2.3%.... Read More

October 28, 2016

 The stock market ended the Friday affair on a mixed note as political uncertainty ambushed participants at the end of another earnings-packed week. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) extended its weekly loss to 1.3% while the S&P 500 (-0.3%; week-to-date: -0.7%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%; week-to-date: +0.1%) finished... Read More

October 27, 2016

The stock market trades on a flat note at midday after an opening-hour rally stalled. The pullback was fueled by rising interest rates, strengthening in the U.S. Dollar Index (98.94, +0.31, 0.32%), and weakness in the heavily-weighted consumer discretionary (-0.7%) and industrial (-0.8%)... Read More

October 26, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a mixed note as investors mulled over underwhelming quarterly results and guidance from top-weighted Apple (AAPL 115.59, -2.66, -2.3%). Other factors impacting today's action included a fleeting rally in crude oil, rising long-term bond... Read More

October 25, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a modestly lower note as investors evaluated the latest batch of quarterly reports. Today's trade also featured a pullback in crude oil and increased volatility in the foreign exchange... Read More

October 24, 2016

 The major averages began the week on an upbeat note as an upswing in M&A activity and sector leadership from the top-weighted technology (+1.1%) space bolstered the broader market. The Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) finished ahead of both the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%). A recent wave... Read More

October 21, 2016

 The stock market ended an upbeat week on a flat note as the S&P 500 (UNCH) retraced most of an 11-point opening drop to finish little changed. The rebound effort featured its fair share of M&A chatter and leadership from the heavyweight consumer discretionary (+0.8%) and technology (+0.6%) sectors.... Read More

October 20, 2016

 The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a flat note as the latest round of quarterly reports prompted mixed reactions from investors. Global monetary policy was also in focus as participants digested the October policy decision from the European Central Bank and some somewhat hawkish commentary from a Federal... Read More

October 19, 2016

 The stock market ended the midweek affair on a flat note as investors responded to a fresh batch of quarterly earnings reports and a rally in crude oil futures. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%) settled in-line with the S&P 500 (+0.2%) and slightly ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%). The... Read More

October 18, 2016

  The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a higher note as positive quarterly results from Netflix (NFLX 118.79, +18.99) and a few other bellwethers stoked risk appetite in the broader market. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.9%) finished ahead of both the S&P... Read More

October 17, 2016

   The major averages began the week on a modestly lower note as participants preferred a risk-off approach ahead of key economic data and a barrage of corporate earnings reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) settled in-line with the S&P 500 (-0.3%) and... Read More

October 14, 2016

U.S. equity futures trade on a higher note with the S&P 500 futures trading nine points above fair value. Global markets followed Wall Street's lead last evening, reversing course after mulling yesterday's disappointing trade data out of China. The rebound effort has benefited... Read More

October 13, 2016

The stock market ended a roller-coaster Thursday on a modestly lower note as the major averages battled back from steep opening losses. The S&P 500 finished lower by 0.3% after stumbling 1.1% at the start of the session. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) finished... Read More

October 12, 2016

The stock market ended Wednesday on a flat, and relatively mixed, note as the minutes from the FOMC's September policy meeting failed to disturb an otherwise quiet trading session. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) settled a hair below its 100-day simple moving average (2139.44) while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) finished on... Read More

October 11, 2016

 The stock market ended Tuesday's session on a sharply lower note as equities endured a broad-based selloff, paced by technical selling and residual concerns related to a strengthening dollar, rising long-term rates, and valuations entering the third-quarter earnings reporting season. The Russell 2000 dropped 1.9% while the Nasdaq Composite finished... Read More

October 10, 2016

 The major averages began the week on a higher note, aided by a rebound in European markets, a rally in crude oil futures, and the outperformance of market heavyweight Apple (AAPL 116.06, +2.00). The Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) settled ahead of both the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.5%) and the... Read More

October 7, 2016

The stock market finished a range bound week on a relatively flat note as investors pored over the Employment Situation Report for September. Interest rate volatility remained at the forefront as participants assessed an evolving fed funds rate hike picture and further Brexit... Read More

October 6, 2016

 The stock market ended Thursday relatively flat as some interest rate volatility and some caution ahead of the September employment report on Friday kept a lid on things. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) settled slightly behind the S&P... Read More

October 5, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a higher note as a rally in crude oil futures and financials (+1.5%) outweighed some lingering rate jitters. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.6%) finished ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) and the S&P 500... Read More

October 4, 2016

 The stock market trades on a flat note at midday as participants maintain a holding pattern in the wake of recent macroeconomic developments and ahead of a data-heavy week. The S&P 500 (-0.3%) trades in-line with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) and behind the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%). Equity indices began... Read More

October 3, 2016

 The stock market began the week on a modestly lower note as the major averages pulled back following last Friday's relief rally. Factors impacting today's trade included weakness in European financial names, an uptick in interest rates, and relative weakness from the heavily-weighted technology (-0.4%) and financial (-0.4%) sectors. The... Read More

September 30, 2016

The stock market ended a bumpy week on a higher note with all three major averages climbing near 0.8%. The S&P 500 (+0.8%) rallied into the late afternoon, but selling during the final minutes of the session drove the index just below its... Read More

September 29, 2016

The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a lower note as concerns regarding Deutsche Bank's (DB 11.48, -0.82) capital position weighed on the major averages. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.1%) finished slightly behind the Nasdaq Composite (-0.9%) and the S&P 500... Read More

September 28, 2016

The major averages ended the midweek affair on a higher note as a leg higher in crude oil boosted risk appetite in the broader market. The energy component rallied in afternoon trade amid reports that OPEC reached a production cap agreement. The... Read More

September 27, 2016

 The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a higher note as a reversal in the economically-sensitive financial (+0.9%) sector fostered a rebound in the broader market. Other factors impacting today's trade included regrouping after last evening's U.S. presidential debate and strong sector leadership from heavily-weighted consumer discretionary (+1.0%) and... Read More

September 26, 2016

The major averages began the week on a lower note as a downturn in the heavily-weighted financial sector (-1.5%) pressured the broader market. Participants also looked to move to the sidelines ahead of an oil producers meeting and the first U.S. presidential debate.... Read More

September 23, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a lower note as the major averages pulled back from their recent risk rally. Other factors impacting today's trade included a downturn in crude oil futures and the underperformance of the heavyweight industrial (-0.6%), financial (-0.7%), and technology (-1.0%) sectors. The Dow Jones... Read More

September 22, 2016

 The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a higher note as participants continued to mull over yesterday's policy decision and guidance from the Federal Reserve. The broader market maintained its risk-on posture for a second session as the Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%) finished ahead of both the S&P 500 (+0.7%)... Read More

September 21, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair broadly higher as participants responded to the latest policy statements from the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan. The S&P 500 (+1.1%) finished slightly ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

September 20, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a flat note as investors favored a cautious approach ahead of policy statements from the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) settled in-line with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) and... Read More

September 19, 2016

  The stock market began the week on a flat note as participants displayed a lack of conviction ahead of key policy statements from the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) settled behind both the Dow Jones Industrial Average (span... Read More

September 16, 2016

The stock market ended a volatile week on a lower note as participants responded to a downturn in European banking names and a hotter-than-expected reading of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for August. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.5%) settled behind the... Read More

September 15, 2016

The major averages trade on a higher note at midday as participants assess a string of recently-released economic reports. The Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) leads the S&P 500 (+0.6%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.6%). The three indices currently sport week-to-date gains between... Read More

September 14, 2016

 The stock market ended the midweek affair on a mixed note as investors favored a cautious approach ahead of a plethora of economic data and the latest policy statement from the Bank of England. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) ended ahead of both the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Dow Jones... Read More

September 13, 2016

The major averages ended the Tuesday affair sharply lower as rising long-term interest rates pressured the broader market. The upswing in interest rates was led by growing uncertainty surrounding the future path and effectiveness of global central bank policy. The S&P 500 (-1.5%)... Read More

September 12, 2016

The stock market began the week on a sharply higher note as market participants dialed back rate hike expectations for the coming months. The major averages finished broadly higher, retracing the lion's share of Friday's losses. The Nasdaq Composite (+1.7%) settled slightly ahead... Read More

September 9, 2016

The stock market ended an otherwise flat week on a sharply lower note as increasing interest rates spurred selling interest in the broader market. The Nasdaq Composite (-2.5%) settled in-line with the S&P 500 (-2.5%) and behind the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-2.1%).... Read More

September 8, 2016

  The major averages trade on a moderately lower note at midday as participants weigh a disappointing policy statement from the European Central Bank against a rebound in crude oil futures. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.4%) trades behind the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.2%) and... Read More

September 7, 2016

The stock market ended a quiet midweek session on a flat note as participants employed some caution ahead of tomorrow's policy statement from the European Central Bank. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.2%) settled slightly ahead of the S&P 500 (UNCH) and the Dow... Read More

September 6, 2016

 The stock market began an abbreviated week on a higher note as a weaker-than-expected reading of the ISM Non-Manufacturing Index for August led investors to dial back rate hike expectations for the year. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) finished the day slightly ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.3%) and the... Read More

September 2, 2016

The stock market trades on a flat note at midday as investors continue to decipher the Employment Situation Report for August. At midday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) trades neck-and-neck with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) and the S&P 500 (+0.3%). The three... Read More

September 1, 2016

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher with the S&P 500 futures floating three points above fair value. Futures hover above their flat lines as the group trades higher alongside European bourses. Market participants have largely shrugged off economic data from the region, which featured a disappointing reading of eurozone Manufacturing... Read More

August 31, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a modestly lower note as investors favored a cautious approach ahead of Friday's employment report. Other focal points impacting today's trade included a downturn in crude oil futures and relative weakness from the heavily-weighted industrial... Read More

August 30, 2016

The stock market ended a relatively quiet session on a flat note after the S&P 500 (-0.2%) spent the day inside a meager 12-point trading range. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) settled slightly behind both the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) and the benchmark... Read More

August 29, 2016

The stock market ended the Monday affair on a higher note as investors responded to a largely in-line Personal Income and Spending Report for July by walking back fed funds rate hike expectations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.6%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

August 29, 2016

The stock market ended the Monday affair on a higher note as investors responded to a largely in-line Personal Income and Spending Report for July by walking back fed funds rate hike expectations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.6%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.5%) and the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

August 26, 2016

The stock market ended a downbeat week on a flat note as commentary from the Jackson Hole Symposium boosted U.S. rate hike expectations and weighed on the major averages. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) settled behind the S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the... Read More

August 25, 2016

 U.S. equity futures trade on a modestly lower note with the S&P 500 futures floating two points below fair value. Index futures inched lower as investors eyed a negative bias in global bourses and favored a cautious approach ahead of commentary from Fed Chair Janet Yellen. Ms. Yellen will address... Read More

August 24, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a lower note as a weaker-than-expected reading of existing home sales for July and a downturn in crude oil pressured the broader market. Other focal points impacting today's trade included a rebound in the dollar, caution ahead of Friday's speech from Fed... Read More

August 23, 2016

The stock market ended a relatively quiet session on a slightly higher note as an above-consensus reading of the New Home Sales Report for July and better-than-expected earnings results from the retail sub-group bolstered the broader market. The Nasdaq Composite finished higher by 0.3%, narrowly missing a new all-time closing... Read More

August 22, 2016

The stock market endured a choppy start to the week, but the S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished its day little changed. Equity markets exhibited a slight degree of caution as participants ruminated over recent commentary from central bankers and looked ahead to the Kansas... Read More

August 19, 2016

The stock market trades on a modestly lower note at midday as investors continue to reassess the possibility of at least one fed funds rate hike before the end of the year. The S&P 500 (-0.4%) leads to the downside while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.2%) floats just beneath its flat... Read More

August 18, 2016

The stock market has endured a sleepy first half of trade as the S&P 500 (UNCH) traverses a narrow six-point trading range. Today's action has been dominated by softening in the dollar, which has acted as a tailwind for dollar-denominated commodities. In addition, cautious comments from influential fund manager... Read More

August 17, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a flat note as market participants walked back recently-adjusted rate hike expectations for the year. The change in thinking followed some dovish remarks from St. Louis Fed President Bullard (an FOMC voter) and less hawkish-than-feared minutes from the FOMC's July meeting.... Read More

August 16, 2016

 The stock market ended a relatively quiet session on a lower note as volatility in the foreign exchange market and some hawkish-sounding talk from a few Federal Reserve officials pressured the major averages out of record territory. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.7%) finished behind the S&P 500 (-0.6%) and the Dow Jones... Read More

August 15, 2016

 The stock market began the week on a higher note as the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%), the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%), and the S&P 500 (+0.3%) each carved out new all-time closing highs. The benchmark index traversed a narrow seven-point trading range as a rally in crude oil buoyed the... Read More

August 12, 2016

The stock market ended a flat week on a similar note as disappointing readings of July retail sales (0.0%; Briefing.com consensus +0.4%) and July PPI (-0.4%; Briefing.com consensus 0.0%) stalled the major averages in record territory. The S&P 500 (-0.1%; week-to-date: +0.1%)... Read More

August 11, 2016

The stock market trades on a higher note at midday as the major averages respond to the latest round of quarterly earnings results and a rebound in crude oil. Other focal points impacting today's trade have included softening in the dollar and strong... Read More

August 10, 2016

 The stock market ended the midweek affair on a modestly lower note as weakness from the oil patch applied pressure to the broader market. For the most part, equities endured another quiet session as the quarterly earnings reporting season continues to taper off. Today's trade also featured a bid in... Read More

August 9, 2016

  The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a flat note as the Nasdaq (+0.2%) settled ahead of the S&P 500 (UNCH) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (UNCH). The major averages ended relatively unchanged as a downturn in crude oil and weakness in the consumer discretionary space... Read More

August 8, 2016

 The stock market began the week on a quiet note as the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) settled behind the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%). The benchmark index meandered in an eight-point trading range as a rally in crude oil helped counter weakness from the heavyweight consumer... Read More

August 8, 2016

The stock market is little changed at midday with the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) trading slightly behind the S&P 500 (-0.1%). The benchmark index notched a new all-time intraday high (2185.54) at the start of the session, but the index has slipped from that... Read More

August 5, 2016

The stock market ended the week on a higher note as a positive reading of the Employment Situation Report for July helped the Nasdaq Composite (+1.1%) and the S&P 500 (+0.9%) notch new all-time closing highs. The upbeat employment report elicited buying interest... Read More

August 4, 2016

The stock market trades little changed at midday with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) trading ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.1%), which managed to find support earlier in the day near its 20-day simple moving average (2162.33). Today's flat performance in the broader market comes on the heels of the Bank of... Read More

August 3, 2016

 The stock market ended the midweek affair on a flat note as investors looked ahead to tomorrow's policy statement from the Bank of England and significant data due out later in the week. The S&P 500 (+0.3%) snapped a two-day losing streak, benefiting from a rebound in crude oil and... Read More

August 2, 2016

 The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a lower note as the key U.S. indices moved lower lockstep with global bourses. Today's decline was facilitated by disappointment surrounding Japan's latest fiscal stimulus package and continued weakness from European banking names. Additionally, a failed rebound attempt in oil and the... Read More

August 1, 2016

The stock market ended a volatile start to the week on a mixed note as a prolonged downturn in crude oil pressured equities. However, the broader market continued to show marked resilience to selling pressure as the S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished eight points off a freshly minted all-time intraday high (2178.29). Focal points impacting today's trade included strengthening in the dollar, an assortment of global manufacturing reports, bearish commentary from Goldman Sachs, and the outperformance of heavily-weighted technology (+0.4%) and health care (+0.6%). The Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (-0.1%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.2%). Read More

July 29, 2016

The stock market ended a bouncy week on a flat note as the S&P 500 (+0.2%) clawed back to little changed for the week (-0.1%). The Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) also settled just above its flat line,... Read More

July 28, 2016

The major averages ended Thursday's session with some fight, but ultimately closed the day mixed and with modest changes.  The Nasdaq (+0.4%) outperformed on the back of Facebook's (FB 125.00, +1.66) glowing earnings report and some dealmaking... Read More

July 27, 2016

The stock market ended Wednesday on a mixed note, responding to a positive bottom-line reading from top-weighted Apple (AAPL 103.03, +6.36) and the latest policy statement from the Federal Open Market Committee. Other contributing factors impacting today's trade... Read More

July 26, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a flat note as investors eyed an influx of quarterly reports and upcoming policy statements from the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan. The major indices recovered from an early pullback, responding to a modest rebound in crude oil and sector leadership... Read More

July 25, 2016

The stock market began the week on a lower note, pulling back alongside a sustained downturn in crude oil. Participants maintained a cautious posture ahead of upcoming macroeconomic events and influential earnings reports. Additional focal points impacting today's trade included softening in the dollar and weakness from the heavyweight industrial... Read More

July 22, 2016

 The stock market ended an upbeat week on a higher note as the major averages soared to new all-time highs. The broader market maintained its bullish posture as investors examined a hodgepodge of quarterly earnings reports. Other focal points impacting today's trade included strengthening in the dollar, weakness from the... Read More

July 21, 2016

 U.S. equity futures trade on a flat note as the S&P 500 futures trade within one point of fair value. Equity futures remain little changed after the European Central Bank announced that it would leave its interest rate corridor unchanged. The move is unsurprising after the Bank of England recently... Read More

July 20, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a higher note as above-consensus quarterly results from Microsoft (MSFT 55.91, +2.82) facilitated a bid in the heavyweight technology sector (+1.4%). Investors maintained a decidedly risk-on approach, bidding cyclical sectors and the beleaguered biotechnology... Read More

July 19, 2016

 The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a mixed note, responding to a lukewarm batch of earnings reports and a negative bias in global bourses. Today's trade also featured a downturn in oil futures, strengthening in the dollar, and weakness from the heavily-weighted consumer discretionary (-0.2%) and health care... Read More

July 18, 2016

 The stock market endured a sleepy start to the week as the S&P 500 (+0.2%) occupied a narrow nine-point range for the duration of today's session. Investors favored a wait-and-see approach today, adopting caution ahead of the plethora of quarterly reports that are scheduled to be released before the end... Read More

July 15, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a flat note as the major averages consolidated after their recent rally to new all-time highs. The risk rally paused as investors ruminated over a positive reading of the June Retail Sales Report (+0.6%; Briefing.com... Read More

July 14, 2016

U.S. equity futures trade higher with the S&P 500 futures trading 18 points above fair value. Futures trade on a higher note as investors weigh monetary policy decisions overseas and positive earnings results here at home. The Bank of England surprised investors this morning, voting to leave its monetary policy... Read More

July 13, 2016

  The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a flat note as the broader market spent most of the session consolidating after its recent rally. The S&P 500 (UNCH) ended its day narrowly above its flat line, extending its winning streak to... Read More

July 12, 2016

The major averages extended their recent rally to a third session as investors eyed potential stimulus measures out of the United Kingdom and Japan. The broader market maintained its risk-on approach, bidding up oil, growth sectors, and beleaguered currencies while selling off safe-haven assets. The S&P 500 (+0.7%) and the... Read More

July 11, 2016

The major averages began the week on a higher note as the S&P 500 (+0.3%) settled above its previous all-time closing high at 2130.82. The broader market continued its recent rally as participants remained upbeat following a headline beat in Friday's Employment Situation Report for June. Additionally, positive developments overseas,... Read More

July 8, 2016

 The stock market ended an abbreviated week on a higher note as a positive reading of the Employment Situation Report for June brought the S&P 500 (+1.5%) within 0.1% of its all-time intraday high (2134.72). The upbeat June employment report sparked a risk rally,... Read More

July 7, 2016

The S&P 500 (-0.3%) trades on a flat note at midday, slipping below the psychological 2100 price level. Today's action has taken on a cautious tone as investors look ahead to tomorrow's release of the Employment Situation Report for June. Additional factors contributing... Read More

July 6, 2016

 The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a higher note, rebounding from selling pressure in the opening hour. Factors impacting today's rebound included a positive reading of the ISM Services Index for June, a reversal in oil, softening in the dollar, and the outperformance of the heavily-weighted health... Read More

July 5, 2016

The stock market ended its day on a lower note, slipping alongside European bourses. The move lower in U.S. equities was prompted by growing fears regarding Italian banking names and revitalized concerns regarding the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union. Additional factors... Read More

July 1, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a modestly higher note, extending its post-Brexit rally to a fourth straight session. Today's leg of the rebound was relatively restrained, owed partly to a 3.1% rally in the past three sessions. Other contributing factors... Read More

June 30, 2016

The stock market capped off the second quarter with the S&P 500 (+1.4%) clawing its way back to a 2.7% gain on the year. The three-day rebound resulted in the benchmark index trimming its post-Brexit loss to a paltry 0.7%. Today's leg of the rebound can be attributed to rising... Read More

June 29, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a broadly higher note, extending its recent rebound alongside European bourses. Equity markets continued their uptrend as investors maintained their risk-on posture, bidding oversold currencies, commodities, and the heavily-weighted financial (+2.3%), health care (+1.9%), and... Read More

June 28, 2016

The stock market finished Tuesday on a broadly higher note as equities rebounded alongside European bourses. The major averages drifted to the upside today as investors abandoned their risk-off posture, bidding oil, oversold currencies, and the heavily-weighted financial (+2.5%), technology (+2.0%), health care... Read More

June 27, 2016

 The stock market began its week on a lower note as investors eyed the potential implications of the United Kingdom leaving the European Union. The decision has had far reaching consequences across capital markets as investors look for clues to the potential timing and terms of the official breakup. Additional... Read More

June 24, 2016

The major averages ended a tumultuous session on a sharply lower note, selling off after the United Kingdom surprised markets by voting to leave the European Union. The move had widespread implications throughout capital markets as the S&P 500 (-3.4%) tumbled 75 points,... Read More

June 23, 2016

The stock market trades on a broadly higher note at midday, gaining traction as European indices extend their winning streak to a fifth straight session. The broad-based rally in Europe occurred as polls in Britain opened for the country's referendum on membership in... Read More

June 22, 2016

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a lower note as investors showed caution ahead of the United Kingdom's referendum vote regarding membership in the European Union. Contributing factors impacting today's trade included a downturn in oil and divided sector leadership between... Read More

June 21, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a flat note as fears regarding a potential Brexit remained in focus. Additional factors contributing towards today's trade included strengthening in the dollar, weakening in oil prices, largely in-line commentary from Fed Chair Janet Yellen,... Read More

June 20, 2016

 The stock market began its week on a higher note as investors eyed a rally in global equities following a reversal in Brexit polls. However, the equity indices finished off their highs due to a sell off in the final hour. Focal points for today's trade included a bid in... Read More

June 17, 2016

 The stock market ended a volatile week on a modestly lower note as investors eyed a downturn in the heavily-weighted health care (-1.1%) and technology (-0.9%) sectors. As a result, the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.9%) finished behind the S&P 500 (-0.3%). For the week, the two indices lost a respective 1.9%... Read More

June 16, 2016

The S&P 500 (-0.1%) trades on a lower note at midday as the benchmark index looks to extend its losing streak to six straight sessions. Today's trade has featured renewed concerns regarding the global economy, a leg lower in oil, strengthening in the... Read More

June 15, 2016

The stock market ended its Wednesday affair under selling pressure as investors responded to a shift in rate hike expectations following the Federal Open Market Committee's policy statement for June. Other contributing factors for today's trade included a downtick in oil, softening in... Read More

June 14, 2016

  The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a lower note as investors favored risk-off trade ahead of key central bank decisions and next week's "Brexit" referendum. Additional factors contributing towards today's decline included strengthening in the dollar, a leg lower in oil, the violation of technical support at the... Read More

June 13, 2016

 The stock market began its week on a lower note as investors weighed ambiguities in the global economic outlook. Furthermore, participants showed a lack of buying conviction ahead of this week's policy meetings at the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan. Focal points for today's trade included a bid in... Read More

June 10, 2016

investors eyed sizable losses in European bourses and sinking yields from overseas. Germany's DAX (-2.5%) helped lead the losses as participants reacted to weakness in equities and a continued bid in the Bund. On that note, the yield on 10-yr Bund carved... Read More

June 9, 2016

After securing three gains in a row, the major averages trade in negative territory at midday. The S&P 500 is lower by 0.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) underperforms.   font color="#000000" face="Calibri"... Read More

June 8, 2016

The stock market endured a quiet midweek session, but the light participation did not stop the S&P 500 from rising 0.3% to register its third consecutive gain. The benchmark index extended its weekly advance to 1.0% with materials (+0.7%) and industrials (+0.7%) ending... Read More

June 7, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a flat note as a rally in crude oil and a positive economic outlook from Fed Chair Yellen could not keep equities near their highs. Additionally, the Dow Jones Transportation Average (+1.1%) and the span... Read More

June 6, 2016

The major averages ended their day on a higher note as investors deciphered recent remarks from Fed Chair Yellen about the economic outlook and monetary policy. Other focal points for today's trade included strength from the oil patch, continued softness in the dollar, relative weakness in safe-haven areas, and key... Read More

June 5, 2016

The stock market ended a flat week on a similar note as investors digested a below-consensus reading of the Employment Situation Report for May. The S&P 500 lost 0.3%, ending its week unchanged. Today's trade included weakening in the dollar, a downswing in oil, a rally in the Treasury complex,... Read More

May 31, 2016

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note after the S&P 500 (-0.1%) tested and failed to clear resistance at the 2102/2104 price level. Today's trade also featured positive economic data, a reversal in crude oil, strengthening in the dollar, and the underperformance of the financial (-0.3%)... Read More

May 27, 2016

The stock market ended the week on a higher note as the S&P 500 (+0.4%) navigated a ten-point range. Focal points for today's trade included commentary from Fed Chair Janet Yellen and key sector leadership from the heavily-weighted financial (+0.7%), technology (+0.6%), health... Read More

May 26, 2016

The stock market trades on a flat note at midday as the major averages vacillate alongside oil. Today's trade has featured positive readings of April Durable Goods Orders (+3.4%; Briefing.com consensus +0.6%) and weekly Initial Claims (268k; Briefing.com consensus 275k), a downtick in... Read More

May 25, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a higher note as the S&P 500 (+0.7%) extended its May gain to 1.2%. Focal points for today's trade included a positive reading of the Department of Energy's stockpile data, leadership from the heavily-weighted financial... Read More

May 24, 2016

 [BRIEFING.COM] The S&P 500 (+1.4%) ended the Tuesday session above its 50-day simple moving average (2062) as stocks rallied in the wake of a positive reading of April New Home Sales (619,000; Briefing.com consensus 521,000). Other contributing factors for today's gain included support from the oil pit and the... Read More

May 23, 2016

The S&P 500 (-0.2%) began its week on a flat note with the index traversing a narrow eight-point range. Focal points for today's action included hawkish commentary from FOMC members, a downtick in the dollar, a modest loss in oil, and the... Read More

May 20, 2016

The stock market ended a flat week on a higher note as the S&P 500 (+0.6%; week-to-date +0.3%) broke a three-week losing streak. Today's action featured a rebound in global equity markets, a modest gain in the dollar, and the outperformance of the... Read More

May 19, 2016

The stock market trades on a lower note at midday as investors continue to respond to the possibility of a sooner than expected fed funds rate hike. Other contributing factors for today's decline have included a leg lower in oil, strength in the... Read More

May 18, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a flat note as the major averages rebounded following a hawkish reading of the FOMC's April minutes. Other focal points of today's action included continued weakness from the retail sub-group, a rebound in the dollar,... Read More

May 17, 2016

The major averages ended Tuesday on a lower note, erasing yesterday's gains. Today's trade featured a hotter-than-expected reading of April CPI (+0.4%; Briefing.com consensus +0.3%), hawkish commentary from FOMC members, a breach of the 50-day simple moving average (2056.90) in the S&P... Read More

May 16, 2016

  The S&P 500 (+1.0%) began its week on a higher note as the index reclaimed its 50-day simple moving average (2056.09). Today's trade featured an upswing in the oil pit, weakness in the dollar, an uptick in M&A activity, and a rebound in... Read More

May 13, 2016

  The stock market ended a downbeat week on a lower note as equities pulled back following continued weakness from the retail sub-group. Additional focal points included the S&P 500 (-0.9%) breaching technical support at its 50-day simple moving average (2054.74), mounting selling pressure... Read More

May 12, 2016

The major averages trade on a lower note at midday as weakness in heavyweight health care (-0.8%), technology (-0.8%), and industrials (-0.4%) drags on the broader market. Today's trade has featured a reversal in oil, a below-consensus reading of weekly initial claims, and... Read More

May 11, 2016

  The stock market ended its day broadly lower as weaker-than-expected earnings and guidance weighed on retail names and the broader consumer discretionary sector (-2.0%). Other focal points of today's action included an upswing in oil, weakness... Read More

May 10, 2016

 The stock market ended the Tuesday affair broadly higher as the S&P 500 (+1.3%; month-to-date +0.9%) erased its monthly loss. Focal points of today's trade included positive data from overseas, a rebound in oil prices, a largely range-bound session in the U.S. dollar, and the outperformance of the heavily-weighted industrial... Read More

May 9, 2016

The stock market began its week on a flat note as a rebound in the heavyweight health care (+1.1%) sector compensated for a downturn from the oil pit. Additional focal points for today's trade included strengthening in the dollar, weakness in commodities, and... Read More

May 6, 2016

[BRIEFING.COM] The stock market ended a downbeat week on a higher note as investors digested a below-consensus reading of the Employment Situation Report. The S&P 500 gained 0.3%, trimming its weekly loss to 0.4%. Additional factors that impacted today's trade included a... Read More

May 5, 2016

The stock market trades on a flat note at midday as the S&P 500 (+0.2%) trims its weekly decline to 0.5%. Today's trade has featured a rally in crude oil, an uptick in the dollar, and leadership from the heavyweight health care (+0.5%)... Read More

May 4, 2016

The stock market spent the Wednesday session under pressure as vacillating oil prices fueled a retreat in the broader market. Meanwhile, mixed economic data clouded the economic picture while a rebound in the dollar contributed to a risk-off posture. Furthermore, relative weakness from... Read More

May 3, 2016

 The major averages ended the Tuesday affair under pressure as the Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) and the S&P 500 (-0.9%) erased yesterday's modest gains. Today's trade centered on a downtick in oil, concerns over global growth, continued swings in the currency market, and weakness in the financial (-1.3%)... Read More

May 2, 2016

 The major averages began their week on a higher note as the S&P 500 (+0.8%) rebounded from last week's decline of 1.3%. Contributing factors for today's trade included below-consensus economic data, weakness from the oil pit, a leg lower in the dollar, and the outperformance of the heavily-weighted consumer discretionary... Read More

April 29, 2016

The stock market ended a downbeat week on a lower note as the major averages surrendered to month-end selling pressure. Today's trade featured a slew of economic data, a downturn in oil, continued strength in the yen, and the underperformance of the heavily-weighted health care (-1.5%), technology (-0.9%), and financial... Read More

April 28, 2016

The stock market trades on a mixed note at midday as investors weigh disappointing news from the Bank of Japan against the advance estimate of Q1 GDP (+0.5%; Briefing.com consensus +0.9%), which was largely in-line. Additionally, today's trade has featured an uptick in M&A activity, and the outperformance of... Read More

April 27, 2016

  [BRIEFING.COM] The stock market ended its Wednesday affair on a mixed note as the major indices moved higher following the March policy statement from the Federal Open Market Committee. Other contributing factors to today's trade included below-consensus quarterly results from Apple (span... Read More

April 26, 2016

The major averages ended their day little changed as investors evaluated a slew of quarterly earnings results against the potential implications of tomorrow's policy statement from the Fed. Additional focal points of today's trade included a rally in crude oil, weaker-than-expected economic data,... Read More

April 25, 2016

The stock market ended a quiet session on a lower note as investors maintained a risk-off posture ahead of a busy week. Today's decline can be attributed to a downturn in crude oil, presumed profit-taking, and the underperformance of the heavily weighted industrial... Read More

April 22, 2016

The stock market ended a mixed week on a wobbly note as disappointing earnings results from the likes of Alphabet (GOOG 718.77, -40.37) and Microsoft (MSFT 51.78, -4.00) weighed on the technology (-1.9%) sector. The major averages ended off their lows... Read More

April 20, 2016

The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a lower note as the major averages pulled back after a recent run higher. Today's downturn can be attributed to retreating oil prices, mixed earnings results, and the underperformance of the heavily-weighed financial sector (-1.0%).... Read More

April 19, 2016

  The stock market trades on a mixed note at midday as the major averages move to session lows after the S&P 500 (+0.1%) failed to clear resistance at the 2100/2104 level. Focal points of today's action have included weaker than expected economic data,... Read More

April 18, 2016

The stock market ended the Monday affair on a higher note as the major averages recovered from some early oil-fueled selling. Today's move higher was buttressed by the outperformance of the heavily-weighted health care (+0.9%), consumer discretionary (+0.9%), and financial (+0.7%) sectors. The S&P 500 (+0.7%) ended its day ahead... Read More

April 15, 2016

The major averages ended an upbeat week on a lower note as a week-long rally in the heavily-weighted financial sector (-0.3%) came to an end. Other focal points for today's trade included some below-consensus domestic economic data, a slide in crude oil, and the underperformance of the heavily-weighted technology (-0.5%)... Read More

April 14, 2016

The stock market ended Thursday on a flat note as the indices surrendered their slim intraday gain during the final hour. Meanwhile, better than feared earnings reports from the beleaguered financial sector (+0.3%) lent support to the major averages for a second day in a row. Additionally, today's action also... Read More

April 13, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a higher note as better than feared earnings results from JPMorgan Chase (JPM 61.79, +2.51) and CSX (CSX 26.03, +1.04) boosted their respective sectors and the broader market. Additionally, today's trade saw a downturn in crude oil, below-consensus readings... Read More

April 12, 2016

The S&P 500 ended the Tuesday affair higher by 1.0%, taking part in a lockstep rally with crude oil. Other factors for today's gain included leadership from the heavily-weighted financial (+1.3%), health care (+0.8%), and industrial (+0.8%) sectors. The benchmark index (+1.0%) ended its day ahead of the Dow Jones... Read More

April 11, 2016

The stock market began the week on a lower note as the major averages sunk into negative territory in a final-hour sell off. Today's action featured an uptick in crude oil, positive sentiment from overseas, and the underperformance of the heavily-weighted health care... Read More

April 8, 2016

 The stock market ended a bumpy week on a flat note as the major averages spent the day in a steady retreat off their morning highs. Today's trade also featured a rally in crude oil, continued strength from the yen, and the underperformance of the heavily-weighted health care (-0.4%) and... Read More

April 7, 2016

  The stock market ended the day on a broadly lower note as uncertainty over the global economy led investors towards safe havens. Today's loss dragged the S&P 500 (-1.2%) back into negative territory for the year (year-to-date -0.1%) as relative weakness from the... Read More

April 6, 2016

  The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a higher note as the major averages rallied in lockstep with crude oil throughout today's session. Other factors that contributed to today's advance included persistent leadership from the heavily-weighted health care (+2.7%) sector and the... Read More

April 5, 2016

The stock market ended the Tuesday affair on a lower note as global growth concerns and new rules regarding tax inversion mergers dominated today's trade. Additionally, fluctuating oil price and the underperformance of the heavily-weighted financial (-1.4%) and health care (-1.2%) spaces provided... Read More

April 4, 2016

The major averages began the week on a lower note as the broader market pulled back from its impressive finish to the first quarter. Additional factors to today's decline included a slide in crude oil prices, hawkish remarks Boston Fed President Eric Rosengren... Read More

April 1, 2016

 The stock market ended an upbeat week on a higher note as investors focused on the largely in-line reading of the March jobs report. Additional factors that impacted today's trade included a downturn in oil, a transitory rebound in the dollar, and leadership from the heavily-weighted health care (+1.3%), technology... Read More

March 31, 2016

The stock market trades on a modestly higher note at midday as the major averages shake some early weakness following the release of the Employment Situation Report for March. Other focal points of today's trade have included a fleeting rebound in the dollar,... Read More

March 30, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a higher note as cautious remarks from Fed Chair Yellen boosted risk appetite for the second day in a row. Additional focal points for today's trade included relative strength from the heavyweight technology (+0.7%) and... Read More

March 29, 2016

The stock market ended its day on a sharply higher note as Fed Chair Janet Yellen boosted equities by striking a decidedly dovish tone. Meanwhile, the outperformance of the heavily-weighted technology (+1.6%) and health care (+1.2%) spaces added support to the move higher. Conversely, a downturn in crude oil and... Read More

March 28, 2016

The stock market began the week on a flat note as the S&P 500 added 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) underperformed. Today's action featured a slide in crude oil, a noteworthy revision to economic data from January, and relative strength from the... Read More

March 24, 2016

The stock market ended an abbreviated week with a rally off its opening lows. Thanks to the final-hour push, the market ended the day on a mixed note as the S&P 500 (UNCH) recovered all but one point from its opening decline... Read More

March 23, 2016

The stock market spent the Wednesday session under selling pressure as a tumble in crude oil fueled a retreat in the broader market. Meanwhile, hawkish commentary from St. Louis Fed President Bullard (FOMC voting member), the underperformance of the heavyweight financial sector (-0.8%), and some below-consensus earnings results led... Read More

March 22, 2016

The stock market opened the Tuesday affair under moderate selling pressure as investors responded to news of terror acts in Brussels. Since the opening half hour, the major indices have been able to move off their worst levels of the day, and now... Read More

March 21, 2016

The stock market began the week on a higher note as the major averages recovered from a weaker-than-expected February Existing Home Sales reading (5.08 million; Briefing.com consensus 5.37 million) and volatile oil trade. Today's advance was owed to key sector leadership from the... Read More

March 18, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a positive note as the S&P 500 (+0.4%) extended its win streak to five weeks and also managed to enter positive territory on a year-to-date basis (year-to-date +0.3%). Contributing factors to today's trade included leadership... Read More

March 17, 2016

 The stock market ended Thursday's session up 0.7%. The gain itself was not a major gain, yet today's trading action was notable as the S&P 500 got back to the unchanged mark for the year (and even slightly positive) during the session. Some late-day selling interest knocked the S&P back... Read More

March 16, 2016

The stock market ended its Wednesday affair broadly higher as the major indices rallied in response to the Federal Open Market Committee's policy statement for March. Other contributing factors to today's gain included a sharp uptick in oil prices and key sector leadership... Read More

March 15, 2016

The stock market finished the day on a mixed note as the major averages recovered from steeper opening declines. Today's trade saw equity markets moving in tandem with oil, as participants weighed a disappointing reading of the February Retail Sales report against a... Read More

March 14, 2016

The stock market managed to end its day on a flat note despite early and sustained weakness from the oil pit. Additionally, relative weakness from the heavyweight financial sector (-0.4%) was outweighed by strength in the influential technology (+0.1%) and the consumer discretionary (+0.4%) spaces. The Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

March 11, 2016

 The stock market ended an upbeat week on a higher note as investors backpedaled from yesterday's initial response to the European Central Bank's latest policy statement and remarks from ECB President Draghi. Meanwhile, supportive conditions from the oil patch and leadership from the heavyweight financial (+2.7%) sector expanded the... Read More

March 10, 2016

The stock market endured a shaky session on Thursday as the major averages backed away from recent rebound highs. Today's decline was goaded by a lack of sector leadership from the heavyweight technology (-0.1%) and financial (-0.1%) sectors, uncertainty over whether the European... Read More

March 9, 2016

The major averages ended their midweek affair on a higher note as a leg higher in oil supported a modest gain in the stock market. Additionally, leadership from the heavyweight technology sector (+1.0%) countered some choppy trade from the likes of the financial... Read More

March 8, 2016

The S&P 500 snapped a five-day win streak on Tuesday as the U.S. market reacted to rekindled growth concerns out of China. Meanwhile, a tumble in oil prices, consolidation after the recent leg higher in the major averages, and the underperformance of the... Read More

March 7, 2016

The major averages began their week on a flat note as an oil rally was unable to bolster the broader market through the closing bell. Contributing factors to today's trade included a consolidation from the recent three-week winning streak, the underperformance of the... Read More

March 4, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a wobbly note. The S&P 500 added 0.3% after being up 0.8% going into the late afternoon. Despite the late slip from session highs, the benchmark index still registered its third consecutive weekly advance, climbing... Read More

March 3, 2016

The stock market ended the Thursday affair on a higher note with the S&P 500 gaining 0.4% ahead of tomorrow's release of the February Employment Situation Report. The benchmark index managed to erase a nine-point loss, climbing to its best level by the... Read More

March 2, 2016

The stock market ended its Wednesday affair on a higher note as investors focused on rate hike implications from a better-than-expected reading of the ADP National Employment Report and rising oil prices. Meanwhile, strong sector leadership from the financial group (+0.9%) helped fuel today's advance. The S&P 500 (+0.4%)... Read More

March 1, 2016

The stock market began March with a broad-based rally as the major averages responded to a better-than-expected reading of the ISM Index for February. Additionally, today's rally was supported by key sector leadership from the financial (+3.5%) and technology (+3.1%) sectors, positive trade from the oil pit, dovish remarks... Read More

February 29, 2016

The stock market ended its first session of the week and the last session of February under selling pressure as the heavyweight health care (-1.6%) and financial (-1.1%) spaces weighed on the broader market. Today's trade saw a brief departure from equities trading... Read More

February 26, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat week with a hiccup as the implications of a hotter than expected core PCE reading (0.3%; Briefing.com consensus of 0.1%) augmented concerns regarding a sooner than expected Fed rate hike. Today's trade saw a continuation of... Read More

February 25, 2016

The major U.S. indices managed to end their session on a higher note as news from the oil patch helped lift the averages to their best levels of the day. Additionally, a stronger than expected reading in the durable goods report (+4.9%; Briefing.com... Read More

February 25, 2016

The major U.S. indices managed to end their session on a higher note as news from the oil patch helped lift the averages to their best levels of the day. Additionally, a stronger than expected reading in the durable goods report (+4.9%; Briefing.com... Read More

February 24, 2016

The stock market ended the Wednesday affair on a positive note as the major indices managed to recover from steep morning losses. Today's trade saw equity markets moving in tandem with oil while heavily-weighted sectors like financials (-0.2%) and industrials (+0.1%) recovered from... Read More

February 23, 2016

The major averages ended their day on a lower note as the broader market felt renewed pressure from the oil patch. Additionally, the underperformance of influential sectors and a worse than anticipated consumer confidence reading helped end the market's recent winning streak. Before today's session, the stock market had advanced... Read More

February 22, 2016

The major U.S. indices began their week on an upbeat note as equities rallied in tandem with crude oil. Meanwhile, a reversal in industrial metals buoyed investor sentiment while chatter regarding a merger between industrial giants Honeywell (HON 105.17, -2.10) and United Technologies (UTX 92.37, +4.14) pushed the... Read More

February 19, 2016

The major averages ended an up week on a mixed note as investors deliberated the effect of hotter than expected CPI data on future fed funds rate hikes. Meanwhile, a fresh dose of weakness from the oil patch and some disappointing earnings... Read More

February 18, 2016

The major averages ended the day on a modestly lower note as equity indices pulled back from a three day rally. Today's loss of momentum can be attributed to the financial sector moving from leader to laggard, short-term overbought conditions, volatile oil trade,... Read More

February 17, 2016

The major averages ended their Wednesday affair on a higher note, rallying throughout the day alongside crude oil. Adding to today's positive sentiment was sustained sector leadership from the heavily-weighted technology (+2.3%) and consumer discretionary spaces (+2.1%), dovish commentary from Boston Fed President... Read More

February 16, 2016

The stock market ended its first session of the week on a higher note, with the major indices continuing their rally from the end of last week. Today's trade saw a departure from the recent trend of equities trading lockstep with oil, as... Read More

February 12, 2016

The stock market ended its week in upbeat fashion, with the major indices recouping large portions of their weekly losses. As a result, the Dow Jones Industrial Average cut its loss to 231 points (-1.4%) from last Friday's close while the S&P surrendered... Read More

February 11, 2016

 The capital markets have been a hot mess in 2016 and things heated up again on Thursday on a series of headlines that led mostly to a risk-averse disposition. The concise overview is that stock prices declined, oil prices fell, gold prices surged, the yen continued to strengthen, and the 10-year... Read More

February 10, 2016

The major averages ended Wednesday's affair under heavy selling pressure, which left the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 in negative territory when the closing bell rang.  The Nasdaq managed a modest gain, yet still gave back a huge chunk of an earlier 101-point gain. Once again, trade centered... Read More

February 9, 2016

The stock market ended a volatile Tuesday affair with a final hour rally that led the major averages to within striking distance of their flat lines. Today's action was hallmarked by a rebound in the short-term oversold market as global growth concerns, the... Read More

February 8, 2016

The stock market ended its first session of the week with moderate losses despite strong buying interest in the final hour of trade. Today's trade was dominated by concerns regarding slowing global growth, a decline in oil, and the ability to sustain further... Read More

February 5, 2016

The major averages ended the final session of the week under heavy selling pressure as the health of the U.S. economy and its ability to sustain further fed funds rate hikes remained in focus following the release of the January Employment Situation Report. The report contained diverging metrics that showed... Read More

February 4, 2016

The stock market ended its Thursday session on a modestly higher note as shaky trading in oil weighed on the market as a whole. Today's trade saw the continued influence of a few other repeat players, as central bank policies, mixed earnings results, and weaker than expected economic data remained... Read More

February 3, 2016

The stock market ended a volatile Wednesday session on a mixed note as the major averages rallied off their opening lows. Today's advance can be attributed to a lockstep rally in oil, an easing of the strong dollar, and dovish remarks from New York Fed President and FOMC voting... Read More

February 2, 2016

 The stock market ended its Tuesday affair under heavy selling pressure as the major indices followed oil's rout to close near their session lows. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (-2.2%) ended behind both the S&P 500 (-1.9%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.8%). Today's selloff was underpinned by: Substantial losses in biotechnology Weakness from... Read More

February 1, 2016

The major averages were able to end their first session of the week on a mixed note despite starting this morning under some selling pressure. Today's session saw a divergence with the recent tradition of equities trading in lockstep with the direction of... Read More

January 29, 2016

The major indices ended the last trading session of a miserable January on a sharply higher note. Today's rally followed the Bank of Japan's vote to adopt a negative interest rate policy while oil added to its recent advance. The Dow Jones Industrial... Read More

January 28, 2016

The major averages ended the Thursday affair modestly higher as speculation regarding oil output cuts, and positive earnings results helped keep the stock market in positive territory. However, the major indices lost their footing near their opening highs as weaker than expected economic data, and conflicting reports between OPEC... Read More

January 27, 2016

The stock market ended its Wednesday affair under heavy selling pressure as the major indices sold off in response to the Federal Open Market Committee's policy statement for January. Today's trade saw a break with tradition as a jump in crude prices was not enough to alter the trajectory of... Read More

January 26, 2016

The stock market ended an upbeat Tuesday session off its high but with solid advances in the major indices. Today's rally was sustained by a sharp rebound in crude oil and a dovish tone expected from the Federal Open Market Committee's policy statement... Read More

January 25, 2016

The stock market ended its first session of the week under heavy selling pressure, pinned down by declining oil prices, added selling pressure in the financial sector, a decidedly poor showing from the small-cap stocks and a violation of a technical support level at 1890 for the S&P 500. The biggest... Read More

January 22, 2016

 The stock market ended a volatile week on a sharply higher note thanks to a broad-based rally. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+2.7%) outperformed both the S&P 500 (+2.0%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.3%). The Friday spike was fueled by factors like: A rebound from near-term oversold conditions Speculation regarding additional monetary... Read More

January 21, 2016

The major averages ended the Thursday session off their highs, as a rebound fizzled out in afternoon action, leaving the key indices near the middle of their trading ranges. The rebound in equities took place along with a similar effort in crude oil. The commodity and the stock market lost... Read More

January 20, 2016

The major averages ended the Wednesday affair off their lowest levels as a rebound effort gained traction during the afternoon. The reversal in equities was partly fueled by recovering oil prices, but more likely, a short-term oversold market invited participants to take on more risk. Despite the rebound effort, the... Read More

January 19, 2016

The major averages ended the first session of the abbreviated week above their flat lines, as pressure regarding global growth and lower oil prices weighed on the market's early rally. Today's session began sharply higher after a miss in China's Q4 GDP report invited speculation regarding potential stimulus from... Read More

January 15, 2016

The major indices hover above their worst levels of the day after an aggressive selloff through the first half. Today's session has marked a new 52-week low in the benchmark index as it has surrendered more than 52 points this session. The averages have slipped as oil concerns and poor... Read More

January 14, 2016

The stock market ended its Thursday affair near its best level of the day thanks to daylong rallying. The last half hour saw a bit of selling pressure, but the S&P 500 settled within x points of its high. Today's rally occurred alongside... Read More

January 13, 2016

  The major averages ended their midweek session sharply lower with the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-3.4%) trailing the S&P 500 (-2.5%). Equity indices surrendered their opening gains amid continued growth concerns that also pressured crude oil from its overnight... Read More

January 12, 2016

The stock market ended its volatile Tuesday affair on a positive note, with the S&P 500 advancing 0.8%. The stock market fixated on oil prices today after mostly quiet overseas sessions. Despite the moderate advance, the rally remained muted for most of the day thanks to ongoing commodity concerns. The... Read More

January 11, 2016

The stock market began the week on a flat note with the S&P 500 adding 0.1% while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.1%) trailed the benchmark index. Falling oil prices in the face of global growth concerns continued to weigh on the overall sentiment, short-circuiting... Read More

January 8, 2016

The major indices ended their day under heavy selling pressure as the market was rebuffed on its muted rebound effort. Sliding oil prices, global growth concerns, and the future path of the federal funds rate remained in focus as investors appeared less than... Read More

January 7, 2016

The stock market ended the Thursday affair broadly lower after a volatile start to the trading day. The sharply lower start to the day was brought on by renewed global growth concerns and worries about incoming deflationary pressures. A sharp decline in oil... Read More

January 6, 2016

The major averages ended their midweek session sharply lower with the S&P 500 (-1.3%) registering its third consecutive decline as global markets responded to fresh international concerns and continued pressure in oil. The benchmark index settled just above its worst level of the day while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-1.1%) outperformed. The... Read More

January 5, 2016

The stock market endured a shaky session on Tuesday with the S&P 500 trading inside a 16-point range. The benchmark index spent some time in negative territory, but settled within the upper-end of its trading range, adding 0.2%, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%)... Read More

January 4, 2016

The stock market ended its first session of 2016 broadly lower, following opening selling pressure that wouldn't ease until the last half hour of trading. The S&P 500 (-1.5%) finished ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.6%) and the Nasdaq (-2.1%), but the benchmark index fell below its 100-day moving average (2024). The major averages stumbled into the open after overseas concerns in China and the Middle East weighed down futures. Read More

December 31, 2015

The stock market ended its last session of the year under broad-based selling pressure, which pushed the S&P 500 (-0.9%) into negative territory for the year (-0.7%). This represented the first year-to-date loss for the benchmark index since 2008. The benchmark index outperformed the Nasdaq (-1.2%) today as the technology... Read More

December 30, 2015

The major indices ended Wednesday on a negative note after the market faced substantial selling pressure into the close with all the major indices settling near their lows. Despite the retreat today, the S&P 500 (-0.7%) was able to stay in positive territory for the year (+0.2%). The benchmark index... Read More

December 29, 2015

The stock market enjoyed a broad-based rally on Tuesday, which lifted the S&P 500 (+1.1%) back into positive territory for the year (+1.0%). The benchmark index was outperformed by the Nasdaq (+1.3%) for the bulk of the day, as technology would lead the... Read More

December 28, 2015

The major averages have climbed off their session lows, but they remain in the bottom half of their trading ranges. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.4%) trades a bit ahead of the S&P 500 (-0.5%) and the Nasdaq (-0.6%). p style="margin: 0in 0in... Read More

December 24, 2015

The stock market completed an abbreviated trading week on a flat note as the sleepy Thursday session produced a slightly lower finish for the S&P 500 (-0.2%) while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) settled just above its flat line. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.8% and the Nasdaq advanced 2.6%.

The Thursday half-session had the makings of a range-bound affair from the start, considering index futures spent the night inside narrow ranges. The overnight action saw mixed trade in Asia while yen strength pressured the dollar/yen pair to 120.30, where the pair traded through the New York session. Similarly, the few European markets that were open ended the day on a mixed note and there was no news on the Spanish political front.

December 23, 2015

The major averages enjoyed a broad-based rally on Wednesday and the steady climb was undoubtedly facilitated by light trading volume ahead of tomorrow's abbreviated Christmas Eve session. The S&P spiked 1.2%, ending right above its 50-day (2,063) moving average, and the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) followed not far behind.

Equity indices registered roughly half of their gains right at the open, rallying behind the energy sector (+4.4%), which held a solid lead throughout the day thanks to a rally in crude oil. The energy component surged 3.8% to $37.50/bbl, catching a second wind from bullish inventory data; however, it wasn't just energy, as every other sector ended the day comfortably in the green.

December 23, 2015

The major averages enjoyed a broad-based rally on Wednesday and the steady climb was undoubtedly facilitated by light trading volume ahead of tomorrow's abbreviated Christmas Eve session. The S&P spiked 1.2%, ending right above its 50-day (2,063) moving average, and the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

December 22, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive advance on Tuesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.9%. The benchmark index returned above its 100-day moving average (2,026) while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) underperformed throughout the day.

Overall, the Tuesday affair was very quiet, which was evidenced by light trading volume as fewer than 850 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor.

Equity indices ranged near their flat lines through the first two hours of the session, climbing to new highs during the afternoon. All ten sectors ended the day with gains, paced by the energy sector (+1.2%), which settled among the leaders.

December 21, 2015

The stock market began the trading week a higher note thanks to a final-hour rally that lifted the market back to its opening high. The S&P 500 added 0.8% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) outperformed slightly.

Overnight, Asian markets had a mixed showing with China's Shanghai Composite (+1.8%) outpacing other regional indices thanks to stimulus hopes. Meanwhile, European indices flashed solid intraday gains, but they slid into the close with Spain's IBEX diving 3.6% due to political uncertainty stemming from general elections that took place over the weekend. Mariano Rajoy's Partido Popular came out on top, receiving 123 votes, but forming a lasting coalition government may be a challenge considering the runner-up Socialist party has ruled out forming a joint government with PP. Spain's 10-yr note sold off in response, sending its yield higher by nine basis points to 1.79%.

December 18, 2015

The stock market ended a volatile week on a defensive note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average paced the Friday slide, falling 2.1% while the S&P 500 (-1.8%) and Nasdaq Composite (-1.6%) registered slimmer losses.

Overnight, the Bank of Japan stepped up its easing efforts by announcing plans to purchase JPY300 billion worth of ETFs starting in April of 2016; however, the market scoffed at the news with Japan's Nikkei diving 1.9% while the yen climbed 1.1% against the dollar (121.27). This is noteworthy because stimulus from major central banks has been a big reason for the rally seen in global markets over the past few years. Therefore, a negative market reaction to news of more stimulus could be indicative of a sentiment change as participants begin wondering whether global central banks have reached their limits.

December 17, 2015

Today's dollar strength did no favors to crude oil as the energy component fell 1.7% to $34.95/bbl. The settlement price masked the fact that oil was down more than 2.8%, marking a session low ($34.64/bbl) just above its worst level from Monday ($34.53/bbl). Accordingly, the energy sector (-2.5%) paced today's retreat.

However, energy was not the only weak spot as every other cyclical sector settled behind the broader market. The top-weighted technology space (-1.6%) had to contend with relative weakness in Apple (AAPL 108.98, -2.36) as the largest stock by market cap fell 2.1% and returned into the neighborhood of yesterday's session low. Meanwhile, another large tech component—Oracle (ORCL 36.93, -1.98)—surrendered 5.1% after the company's sluggish revenue growth overshadowed a bottom-line beat.

Staying on the earnings front, FedEx (FDX 151.84, +3.01) spiked 2.0% after reporting better than expected earnings and reaffirming its guidance. It is worth noting that the company voiced some concern about the domestic economy, lowering its 2015 GDP growth forecast to 2.4% from 2.5%. FedEx represented a bright spot in the Dow Jones Transportation Average (-2.0%), but heavy losses in other index components caused the bellwether complex to widen its December loss to 7.0%.

Things looked a bit better on the countercyclical side where consumer staples (-1.3%), telecom services (-1.0%), and health care (-1.1%) registered slimmer losses than the broader market while the utilities sector (+0.1%) outperformed thanks to lower yields.

December 16, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a higher note with the S&P 500 climbing 1.5%. The benchmark index shrugged off the first fed funds rate hike in nine years, reclaiming its 50- (2,060) and 200-day moving averages (2,062) in the process.

Equity indices spiked at the start of the trading day, but the first half of the session featured a slow drip from opening highs as investors employed some caution ahead of the FOMC rate announcement; however, a rally to new highs unfolded during the late afternoon.

The Federal Reserve lived up to expectations, calling for a 25-basis point hike to the federal funds target range, which had been stuck in the 0.00-0.25% range for exactly seven years. Interestingly, today's rate hike did not stop the committee from slightly lowering its core PCE inflation outlook for 2016 to 1.5-1.7% from 1.5-1.8% that had been expected in September.

The Dollar Index (98.35, +0.13) displayed some volatility, but ended in the green. The index saw some pressure as Fed Chair Janet Yellen addressed the media, stressing the Fed's intention to stick to a gradual tightening path. Ms. Yellen acknowledged that the rate hike is taking place while inflation is well below the Fed's 2.0% target, but the Fed Chair believes that inflation will return to the 2.0% target once transitory factors fade away.

December 15, 2015

The stock market enjoyed a broad-based rally on Tuesday, which lifted the S&P 500 (+1.1%) back above its 100-day moving average (2,030). The benchmark index extended this week's gain to 1.5% ahead of tomorrow's FOMC announcement, which is widely expected to call for the first fed funds rate hike since 2006.

Overnight, the early portion of the Asian session was highlighted by some caution among investors, but the overall sentiment began improving once the attention shifted to Europe. Accordingly, markets in France (+3.2%), Germany (+3.1%), and the UK (+2.5%) soared amid broad support.

Contributing to the upbeat sentiment was a rally in crude oil as the energy component climbed despite greenback strength that sent the Dollar Index (98.22, +0.62) higher by 0.6%. As for oil, WTI crude surged 2.7% to $37.32/bbl, taking the energy sector (+2.9%) along for the ride.

The growth-sensitive energy sector settled atop the leaderboard, but despite today's surge, the sector is still down 7.8% for the month. Similarly, the financial sector (+2.4%) was also at the forefront of today's advance after showing relative weakness as of late. The economically-sensitive group narrowed its December loss to 2.0% versus a 1.8% month-to-date decline for the S&P 500. Recent concerns about the high-yield bond space were masked by a 1.6% spike in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate ETF (HYG 80.12, +1.29), which returned to its range from Friday.

December 14, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a higher note, but not before showing some late morning volatility. The S&P 500 climbed 0.5% after briefly dipping below the 2,000 mark while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) underperformed slightly. font... Read More

December 11, 2015

The stock market ended a defensive week on a woeful note with the S&P 500 (-1.9%) diving below its 100-day moving average (2,031). The benchmark index lost 3.8% since last Friday, while the Nasdaq (-2.2%) underperformed, falling 4.1% for the week.

The bulk of today's weakness unfolded during the first half of the day while afternoon action saw the key indices slip to fresh lows. The early weakness followed an overnight session, which featured news from China, indicating the People's Bank of China nudged the yuan to a four-year low against the dollar (6.4553). This stoked up concerns about China's deflation being exported to other economies while continued weakness in commodities compounded those worries.

Furthermore, reports of trouble in the junk bond arena weighed on sentiment after it came to light that Third Avenue Management is liquidating its high-yield Focused Credit Fund and barring investor withdrawals while it is doing so. This invited fears about other bond funds with similar exposure while junk bonds faced daylong pressure that sent the iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate ETF (HYG 79.52, -1.62) to its lowest close since July 2009.

All ten sectors ended the day in negative territory and the market saw no dip-buying during the afternoon. To be fair, the lack of an afternoon rebound was not a shock considering the Federal Reserve is likely to introduce another wrinkle into the fold next week when the central bank is widely expected to announce the first fed funds rate hike since June 2006.

December 10, 2015

The stock market ended Thursday on a higher note, putting an end to its three-day skid. The S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, but could not hold posture above its 50-day moving average (2,054). Meanwhile, the Dow (+0.5%) and Nasdaq (+0.4%) settled ahead of the benchmark index.

The Thursday advance did not occur without some theatrics as the S&P 500 marked a morning high during the first 90 minutes of the day and followed that with a return to its flat line. The benchmark index charged to a fresh high in the early afternoon, but backtracked from that level to end in the lower third of today's range.

Equity indices spent the first hour of action near their flat lines, but the energy sector (+0.6%) displayed relative strength from the start, which underpinned today's advance. The sector narrowed this week's loss to 3.2%, ending in the lead even though crude oil fell 1.0% to $36.80/bbl. The energy component continued sliding in electronic trade, which forced some backtracking in the sector. It is worth noting that the prolonged weakness in oil prices prompted Chevron (CVX 89.30, +1.70) and ConocoPhillips (COP 49.22, +0.75) to cut their respective capital expenditure budgets for 2016 by 24.0% and 25.0%, respectively

December 9, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek affair on a broadly lower note with the S&P 500 surrendering 0.8% after being up 0.8% in the early going. The benchmark index returned below its 200-day moving average (2,064) while the Nasdaq (-1.5%) underperformed throughout the day.

The early portion of today's session appeared to have the makings of a rebound, but the opening strength was entirely due to significant gains in two commodity-related sectors. The materials space (+3.1%) ended comfortably in the lead after it was reported that Dow Chemical (DOW 56.97, +6.07) and DuPont (DD 74.49, +7.89) are in advanced merger talks. Both names surged 11.9% with DuPont's strength keeping the Dow ahead of the broader market.

Similar to materials, the energy sector (+1.3%) ended well ahead of the broader market, but it is worth noting that today's gain occurred after the growth-sensitive group gave up 4.8% over the past two days. Crude oil, however, could not remain in the green, ending the day lower by 0.9% at $37.18/bbl even though the latest storage report from the Energy Information Administration showed the biggest inventory draw in four months.

That storage report briefly propelled crude into the $39.00/bbl area, but the ensuing reversal in oil coincided with the turn in the equity market that left just three sectors in the green when the closing bell rang.

December 8, 2015

The stock market endured a shaky session on Tuesday, but the key indices managed to recover a portion of their losses by the close. The S&P 500 settled in the middle of its trading range, surrendering 0.7%, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) outperformed throughout the day.

Equity indices began the day under heavy pressure after the overnight session featured some disappointing economic data from China. Specifically, the country's November trade surplus narrowed to $54.10 billion from $61.64 billion (expected surplus of $63.30 billion) as exports fell 6.8% year-over-year (consensus -5.0%; previous -6.9%) and imports declined 8.7% (expected -12.6%; last -18.8%).

December 7, 2015

  The major averages began the trading week on a cautious note with the Dow (-0.7%), Nasdaq (-0.8%), and S&P 500 (-0.7%) registering comparable losses.

Equity indices retreated through the first two hours of the trading day and the lack of intraday bargain hunting kept the key averages near their lows into the afternoon. The S&P 500 erased a third of its advance from Friday, but managed to settle above its 200-day moving average (2,065).

December 3, 2015

The stock market enjoyed a broad rally on Friday that lifted the S&P 500 (+2.1%) back above its 200-day moving average (2,065). The daylong surge helped the benchmark index turn this week's loss into a slim gain of 0.1%.

Equities charged out of the gate and doubled their gains during afternoon action even though the November Employment Situation report came in ahead of expectations (211,000; Briefing.com consensus 196,000), which is unlikely to get in the way of the Federal Reserve's rate hike plans.

Interestingly, Treasuries stumbled immediately after the release of today's data, but they followed that move with a charge to new session highs. The 10-yr note ended near its best level of the session, pressuring its yield four basis points to 2.27%. Meanwhile, the Dollar Index (98.35, +0.43) climbed 0.4%, erasing a portion of its 2.3% loss from yesterday.

December 2, 2015

The major averages trade in mixed fashion at midday with the Dow (-0.2%) and S&P 500 (-0.3%) showing modest losses while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) outperforms.

Equity indices spent the initial 90 minutes of the day near their flat lines, but the S&P 500 has been pressured to a new low due to significant weakness in the energy sector (-2.4%). The growth-sensitive group saw late-morning volatility in reaction to some conflicting headlines about the OPEC meeting, which will take place in Vienna on Friday. Similarly, crude oil has endured heavy selling as the energy component trades lower by 3.6% at $40.35/bbl at this juncture.

December 1, 2015

 The stock market began December on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 climbing 1.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) settled just behind.

All in all, the Tuesday session was very quiet as the S&P 500 marked its high during the opening hour and inched above that level during afternoon action. The index briefly slipped from the morning high after today's economic data showed that the ISM Index (48.6; Briefing.com consensus 50.4) registered its first contractionary reading (below 50) in 36 months.

The disappointing report was met with a spike in Treasuries that sent the 10-yr note to a fresh high. The benchmark instrument settled on its best level of the day, pressuring its yield six basis points to 2.15%.

November 30, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a modestly lower note with the S&P 500 surrendering 0.5% after spending the day in a 13-point range. Today's session marked the end of November, a month during which the S&P 500 added 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.1% month-to-date) outperformed.

Equities held slim gains at the start of the trading day, but the early strength faded quickly, sending the S&P 500 below its flat line where the index remained into the afternoon. The S&P 500 tried to stage a rebound during afternoon action, but that move was followed by a slip to new lows. The benchmark index settled near its worst level of the day, masking gains in five of ten sectors.

November 27, 2015

The stock market meandered in a narrow range through the abbreviated Friday session, ending the day and the week on a flat note. The S&P 500 added 0.1% today, ending the week higher by two points (+0.1%).

Unsurprisingly, the Friday session was very quiet with trading volume running well below average. To that point, only 378 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor. The lack of activity in the U.S. masked a relatively busy overnight session that featured a 5.5% dive in China's Shanghai Composite after regulators expanded their investigation into major securities brokers, including Citic Securities.

November 25, 2015

The stock market ended Wednesday on a flat note with trading volume running well below average as some market participants got an early jump on the Thanksgiving holiday, which will keep capital markets in the U.S. closed on Thursday. The S&P 500 settled just below its flat line while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) outperformed.

Investors received a boatload of economic data this morning, but there was little response in the market as stocks opened flat and inched higher to establish narrow trading ranges that held throughout the day. For instance, the S&P 500 spent the session in a seven-point range with seven sectors offsetting gains in three groups that outperformed throughout the day.

Heavily-weighted health care (+0.5%) and consumer discretionary (+0.5%) seized the lead in the early going and held their ground into the close. The health care sector received support from biotechnology, evidenced by a 1.1% spike in iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB 338.85, +3.58).

November 24, 2015

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a flat note, overcoming an opening retreat that was fueled by a military incident, which is likely to invite geopolitical implications going forward. The S&P 500 added 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (unch) underperformed.

Early this morning, it was reported that the Turkish military shot down a Russian fighter jet, which allegedly violated Turkish airspace on the country's border with Syria. This marked the first time that a NATO member downed a Russian plane since the 1950s and Russian military officials said that both pilots were killed by Syrian opposition fighters after ejecting from the plane. The Russian defense ministry called the incident a "hostile act" while President Vladimir Putin has terminated all Russian military cooperation with Turkey. Mr. Putin denied the incursion into Turkey, saying the action represented "backstabbing by accomplices of terrorists" and that it "goes beyond [the] fight against terror."

November 23, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a cautious note with the S&P 500 shedding 0.1%. The benchmark index surrendered its opening gain, ending in the middle of its trading range while the Dow (-0.2%) and Nasdaq (-0.1%) registered comparable losses.

Overall, the Monday session was very quiet with some market participants likely getting a head start on the Thanksgiving holiday. With that in mind, it wouldn't be surprising to see below average trading volume for the remainder of the week. As for today, roughly 820 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor.

Equities climbed at the start with the early move supported by three sectors in particular. The energy sector (+0.7%) displayed some early volatility, but ended among the leaders even though crude oil slipped 0.3% to $41.78/bbl after making a brief appearance above $42.50/bbl. WTI crude briefly spiked in the morning after Saudi officials indicated their intent to stabilize the global energy market, but the energy component was back near its flat line in short order.

November 20, 2015

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a higher note with the bulk of today's action taking place during the opening hour. The S&P 500 gained 0.4%, ending the week higher by 3.3% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) outperformed, boosting its weekly gain to 3.6%.

Equity indices rocketed out of the gate, marking their best levels of the day about 45 minutes after the opening bell. The S&P 500 set a session high just above the 2,097 level and spent the remainder of the trading day in a slow retreat from that perch.

The consumer discretionary sector (+1.2%) displayed strength from the start while five other sectors also finished in the green. As for the discretionary space, the group extended its weekly gain to 4.5%, ending atop this week's leaderboard. Apparel names were largely responsible for the strength with Dow component Nike (NKE 132.65, +6.87) soaring 5.5% after announcing a new $12 billion share repurchase program and boosting its quarterly dividend by four cents to $0.32/share. In addition, the industry giant announced its stock will undergo a two-for-one split.

November 19, 2015

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a flat note after spinning its wheels throughout the day. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% after spending the day in an eight-point range while the Nasdaq Composite (unch) outperformed slightly. Despite today's sluggish performance, the S&P 500 is set to enter Friday with a solid week-to-date gain of 2.9%.

Equities began the trading day just below their flat lines due to daylong weakness in two relatively large sectors. To that point, health care (-1.6%) and energy (-1.3%) struggled from the start with the health care space responding to a 5.7% dive in the shares of UnitedHealth (UNH 110.57, -6.68) after the insurer lowered its guidance, citing exposure to public exchanges. To be fair, UNH was not the only soft spot as biotech names also lagged with iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB 333.42, -5.32) ending lower by 1.6%.

November 18, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a broadly higher note with the Nasdaq Composite leading the way. The tech-heavy Index spiked 1.8% while the S&P 500 (+1.6%) followed not far behind, charging back above its 200-day moving average (2,065).

Equity indices climbed out of the gate, continuing their steady charge into the afternoon and through the release of FOMC minutes from the October meeting, which left little doubt that the Fed is poised to raise rates at the December meeting. Specifically, the minutes indicated that "it may well become appropriate to initialize the normalization process at the next meeting, provided that unanticipated shocks do not adversely affect the economic outlook."

November 17, 2015

The stock market finished the day on a flat note after enjoying an opening rally that briefly placed the S&P 500 (-0.1%) above its 200-day moving average (2,064). The benchmark index was up around 0.7% during late morning action, but steady afternoon selling ensured a lower finish.

The second-half retreat accelerated after police officials in Hanover, Germany confirmed that a credible bomb threat forced the cancellation of a soccer match between Germany and the Netherlands. Press reports suggested that an emergency vehicle loaded with explosives was found at the soccer stadium, but this was refuted by the German Interior Minister just before the market closed for the day.

November 16, 2015

The stock market began the trading week with a broad-based rally, which unfolded after a range-bound start to the trading day. The S&P 500 gained 1.5% while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.2%) underperformed throughout the session.

Overnight, it was reported that the Japanese economy has re-entered recession for the second time in as many years as Q3 GDP contracted 0.2% quarter-over-quarter (expected -0.1%; last -0.3%), according to the preliminary reading. Naturally, that news was met with hopes for more monetary support from the Bank of Japan, which boosted global equities while the yen retreated, sending the dollar/yen pair higher by 0.5% to 123.20. That being said, Japan's Nikkei could not stay in the green, falling 1.0%.

November 13, 2015

The stock market ended a down week on a woeful note after the release of some disappointing economic data and uninspiring retail earnings. The S&P 500 lost 1.1%, widening this week's decline to 3.6% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.5%) underperformed to end the week lower by 4.3%.

Equity indices spent the duration of the trading day in negative territory, pressured mostly by heavily-weighted consumer discretionary (-2.6%) and technology (-2.0%) sectors. Both cyclical groups traded well behind the broader market throughout the day and that underperformance prevented the market from staging a meaningful rebound. The S&P 500 briefly rallied above its 100-day moving average (2,034) in late morning action, but the move was retraced fully into the afternoon as the two influential sectors remained weak and the rest of the market gave in to the weakness.

November 12, 2015

The stock market could not avoid its second consecutive retreat on Thursday with the S&P 500 (-1.4%) falling below its 200-day moving average (2,064). The benchmark index retreated throughout the session while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.2%) settled a step ahead.

Equity indices faced selling pressure from the get-go with the early weakness following a cautious session in Europe where markets in France, Germany, and Spain lost between 1.2% and 2.3%. Things did not improve by the start of the New York Session, which led to opening losses in nine of ten sectors.

November 11, 2015

The stock market spent the Wednesday session inside a narrow range before ending with a modest loss. The S&P 500 shed 0.3% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) settled in line with the benchmark index after showing relative strength intraday.

Overall, the midweek affair was very quiet as the stock market bounced around its flat line while the bond market was closed for Veterans Day. The subdued activity was evidenced by below-average trading volume as fewer than 800 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor.

November 10, 2015

The stock market ended Tuesday on a mixed note as the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) settled with a modest loss while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%) and S&P 500 (+0.2%) overcame the weakness in the technology sector (-0.7%), eking out slim gains.

Equities stumbled at the start of the trading day with the opening move paced by the largest stock in terms of market cap. Specifically, Apple (AAPL 116.73, -3.84) fell 3.2% in reaction to a Credit Suisse report, which indicated the tech giant has cut its orders for iPhone 6s components by as much as 10.0%. Shares of Apple slid below their 100-day moving average (117.33) after struggling with the 200-day average (122.06) over the past few days. Meanwhile, supplier names like CirrusLogic (CRUS 29.43, -2.78), Broadcom (BRCM 51.45, -1.74), AvagoTechnologies (AVGO 119.86, -6.64) lost between 3.3% and 8.6% while the PHLX Semiconductor Index fell 1.8%.

November 9, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a cautious note as persistent global growth concerns weighed on investor sentiment. The S&P 500 surrendered 1.0% while the Dow and Nasdaq posted comparable losses.

Equities retreated through the first half of the Monday session and remained near their lows into the afternoon, which kept dip-buyers on the sidelines. The cautious posture in the market took place after the weekend featured the release of China's trade data, which showed a 10-yr high in the trade surplus, but exports fell 6.9% in October, representing the fourth consecutive monthly drop.

November 6, 2015

The S&P 500 could not avoid its third consecutive decline on Friday as rising rate hike expectations weighed on equities. To be fair, the benchmark index missed a green close by 0.74 points while the Dow (+0.3%) and Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) erased their opening losses.

Equities stumbled at the start after the October Employment report easily surpassed expectations, thus increasing the likelihood of a fed funds rate hike at the December policy meeting to 69.8% from yesterday's 58.1%. Specifically, October nonfarm payrolls came in at 271,000 while the Briefing.com consensus expected a reading of 181,000. Also of note, hourly earnings rose 0.4% while the consensus expected an uptick of 0.2%.

November 5, 2015

The major averages registered their second consecutive decline on Thursday with the S&P 500 shedding 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) underperformed.

Broadly speaking, the Thursday affair was fairly quiet, but that was not particularly surprising considering Friday morning will feature the release of the Employment Situation report for October. The Briefing.com consensus expects the report to reveal the addition of 181,000 payrolls while hourly earnings are expected to have increased 0.2% in October.

Tomorrow's report could lead to volatility in the market, making today's reluctance among investors to push the market in either direction rather understandable. The S&P 500 is set to enter the Friday session with a week-to-date gain of 1.0% while the Nasdaq is higher by 1.5% for the week despite today's underperformance.

November 4, 2015

The stock market snapped its two-day streak on Wednesday, but the midweek pullback was fairly modest in scope. The S&P 500 shed 0.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) outperformed, settling just below its flat line.

Equity indices began the day on a modestly higher note, but the slight early strength faded quickly, sending the major averages into the red during the opening hour. In addition, investors heard from Fed Chair Janet Yellen who addressed the House Financial Services Committee to discuss regulation and supervision of financial institutions; however, the Q&A portion drifted towards questions about the upcoming December policy meeting with Fed Chair Yellen reiterating that a rate hike could happen in December if economic data shows improvement.

November 3, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive gain on Tuesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%. The benchmark index settled a bit behind the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.5%) with cyclical sectors pacing the advance.

Equity indices saw modest losses at the start of the trading day, but the market was able to overcome the early weakness thanks to continued leadership from the energy sector as the growth-sensitive group charged higher by 2.5% to extend this week's gain to 5.0%. Today's rally was powered by a 3.8% spike in crude oil, which settled at $47.90/bbl, while top-weighted components like Chevron (CVX 98.14, +3.18) and Exxon Mobil (XOM 86.83, +1.55) posted respective gains of 3.4% and 1.8%.

November 2, 2015

The stock market charged higher to begin November with the Nasdaq Composite setting the pace. The tech-heavy index surged 1.5% while the S&P 500 (+1.2%) followed right behind.   Equity... Read More

October 30, 2015

The stock market ended the week on a lower note, but that did not stop the S&P 500 from posting its largest monthly gain since October 2011. The benchmark index lost 0.5% on Friday, but surged 8.3% for the month while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.4%) outperformed, spiking 9.4% in October.

Broadly speaking, the Friday session was very quiet with the market showing a modest loss during morning action, which turned into a slim afternoon gain; however, a late slide from session highs ensured a lower finish for the S&P 500.

October 29, 2015

The stock market spun its wheels through the bulk of the Thursday affair, but a final-hour charge helped the S&P 500 end little changed... Read More

October 28, 2015

The stock market snapped its two-day skid on Wednesday, but not before seeing some intraday volatility. The S&P 500 added 1.2% while the Russell 2000 (+2.9%) outperformed. Equity indices rallied out of... Read More

October 27, 2015

The stock market endured its second consecutive retreat on Tuesday, but the overall trading dynamic was very similar to the range-bound affair from Monday. The S&P 500 lost 0.3% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) outperformed throughout the session.

In some ways, the cautious posture was not all that shocking considering tomorrow afternoon will feature the release of the October FOMC policy directive, which will cross the wires at 14:00 ET.

As for today, nine sectors ended the day in negative territory with cyclical groups showing relative weakness across the board. The energy sector (-1.2%) spent its second consecutive day behind the remaining nine groups as lower oil prices weighed. To that point, WTI crude fell 1.8% to $43.22/bbl.

October 26, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a quiet note with the S&P 500 (-0.2%) spending the session inside a nine-point range. The benchmark index settled right above the midpoint of that range while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) outperformed throughout the session.

Generally speaking, the Monday affair was very quiet and free of noteworthy earnings. Accordingly, the benchmark index opened with a two-point loss and traded in sideways fashion until the closing bell. Seven sectors registered losses between 0.2% (consumer staples and industrials) and 2.5% (energy) while consumer discretionary (+0.8%), health care (+0.5%), and telecom services (+0.1%) outperformed.

October 23, 2015

The stock market ended the week on an upbeat note thanks to an opening spike that was extended during afternoon action. The S&P 500 jumped 1.1%, extending its weekly gain to 2.1%, while the Nasdaq surged 2.3% to end the week higher by 3.0%.

Quarterly earnings released last evening ensured a higher start for the major averages while a surprise rate cut from the People's Bank of China supercharged the opening move higher. Specifically, the central bank lowered its one-year lending rate by 25 basis points to 4.35% and cut its reserve requirement ratio by 50 basis points for qualifying institutions, representing the sixth rate cut since November. With most of the action taking place before the opening bell, stocks drifted near their highs into the afternoon, building on their gains during the final hour of action.

October 22, 2015

It was a running of the bulls on Thursday and "re-examine" was the trigger that sparked the charge. The S&P 500 soared 1.7%, overtaking its 100-day moving average (2,038) in the process. The benchmark index settled near its best level of the day, registering its first close above the 100-day average since August 17, as hopes for more stimulus overshadowed mixed corporate earnings.

The stock market was off to the races after equity futures revved higher an hour before the opening bell. The pre-market activity took place in response to comments from European Central Bank President Mario Draghi, who addressed the media following the latest ECB policy meeting. During his press conference, Mr. Draghi said that the central bank will "re-examine" its asset purchases at the December meeting. This was immediately interpreted as a harbinger of more monetary easing in the near future, sending the euro lower while European equities and U.S. futures spiked. Those moves accelerated after Mr. Draghi revealed that the governing council had discussed lowering the deposit facility rate at today's policy meeting. Markets in France, Germany, Spain, and Italy jumped between 2.0% and 2.5% while the euro slid throughout the session to 1.1110 against the dollar after trading just above 1.1300 prior to Mario Draghi's press conference. As a result, the Dollar Index (96.44, +1.37) spiked 1.4%, returning to levels last seen in late September.

October 21, 2015

The stock market ended Wednesday on a lower note after enduring a shaky session. The S&P 500 lost 0.6% after failing to overtake its 100-day moving average (2,038) for the second day in a row. Just like yesterday, the Nasdaq Composite (-0.8%) underperformed while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) displayed relative strength.

Equities began the day with modest gains, but the S&P 500 notched its high during the opening minutes of the session and returned to its flat line in short order. The index traded just above the unchanged level into the afternoon, but slid to lows shortly after 13:00 ET. The S&P 500 staged a late charge to its flat line, but could not overtake that level, dropping to a new low instead.

October 20, 2015

The stock market finished Tuesday on a quiet note after spending the session inside a narrow trading range. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) underperformed throughout the day.

Just like yesterday, today's affair was very quiet with the S&P 500 spending the majority of the session near its flat line. The benchmark index opened with a modest loss and rallied into the green during morning action, but could not climb above its 100-day moving average (2,039), which served as resistance. The index followed that short-lived rally with a return into the red, where it settled for the day.

October 19, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a quiet note with the major averages spending the Monday session inside narrow ranges. The S&P 500 settled just above its flat line after climbing off its opening low while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) outperformed.

In some ways, the range-bound action was a bit of a surprise considering investors received China's Q3 GDP report over the weekend. The growth report proved to be a mixed bag as GDP beat estimates (+6.9%; consensus 6.8%), but dipped below the official target growth rate of 7.0% year-over-year.

October 16, 2015

The stock market endured a sleepy Friday session that capped an upbeat week. The S&P 500 added 0.5%, extending its weekly gain to 0.9%, while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) underperformed on Friday, but still ended the week higher by 1.2%.

Overall, the Friday affair was pretty uneventful as the S&P 500 spent the bulk of the day in a ten-point range, climbing to a new high during the final hour. Four sectors settled ahead of the S&P 500 while the remaining six ended in-line with or behind the benchmark index.

Consumer staples (+1.0%) and health care (+1.0%) settled in the lead with the health care space holding up well despite an intraday swoon in biotechnology. The iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB 314.32, -0.44) shed 0.1% after being up 1.1% at the start of the trading day. For the week, the health care sector gained 1.9% while the biotech ETF also climbed 1.9%.

October 15, 2015

The stock market charged higher on Thursday, erasing its entire decline from the early portion of the week. The S&P 500 spiked 1.5% while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.8%) outperformed.

The broad-based rally in the U.S. followed an overnight session that featured dovish comments from two European Central Bank members, setting expectations for more monetary easing from the central bank. This started with Vitor Constancio who spoke in Hong Kong, joining the chorus of voices calling on the Federal Reserve to delay its first rate hike while Ewald Nowotny said that more needs to be done by the ECB in light of soft inflation data.

October 14, 2015

The major averages ended the midweek session on a lower note with the S&P 500 (-0.5%) registering its second consecutive decline. The benchmark index settled near its worst level of the day while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) outperformed.

Equities displayed modest gains in the early going, but relative weakness in several influential sectors prevented the S&P 500 from holding its early gain. The index made another brief appearance above its flat line during the early afternoon, but slid to lows before the closing bell.

The reasons for today's retreat were not particularly difficult to find as economic data reported this morning disappointed while quarterly earnings received since yesterday's closing bell did not inspire confidence either.

October 13, 2015

The stock market ended Tuesday on a lower note after the major averages failed to hold their slim intraday gains. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.9%) underperformed.

Overall, today's affair was relatively quiet with trading volume surpassing yesterday's total by a relatively slim margin. To that point, fewer than 850 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor.

Equity indices faced some selling pressure after China's September trade balance ($60.34 billion; expected $46.79 billion) showed a 20.4% decline in imports (expected -15.0%), which was the 11th consecutive drop in that category, stirring up concerns about China's demand for goods and services from its neighbors. Accordingly, most Asian markets posted losses on Tuesday and the defensive sentiment infiltrated the European session.

October 12, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a sleepy note with a Monday session that saw the S&P 500 bounce around an eight-point range. The benchmark index settled higher by 0.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) outperformed slightly.

With the bond market closed for Columbus Day, a fair share of participants elected to forego the Monday session. The subdued activity was highlighted by below-average trading volume as fewer than 700 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor.

Eight sectors finished the day with gains while commodity-sensitive energy (-1.1%) and materials (-0.9%) underperformed throughout the session. The energy sector finished at the bottom of the leaderboard, narrowing its October gain to 10.9% while crude oil surrendered 5.2% to settle at $47.19/bbl. Similar to the sector, WTI crude continues holding a solid month-to-date gain (+4.7%) despite today's dive.

October 9, 2015

The stock market ended a strong week on a subdued note. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after spending the day in a 13-point range while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) outperformed. For the week, the benchmark index climbed 3.3% while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 2.6%.

The Friday session made for a quiet finish to a week that saw all ten sectors register gains. The S&P 500 began the trading day above its flat line, but slipped into the red around midday. The index traded just below its unchanged level into the afternoon, but turned green during the final hour.

October 8, 2015

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a higher note after erasing its opening decline. The S&P 500 climbed 0.9% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) underperformed throughout the day.

Equity indices struggled at the start of the trading day, responding to a mixed overnight session that featured losses among most Asian indices while European stocks fought to end the day with modest gains. The advance in Europe followed the release of the latest policy meeting minutes from the European Central Bank, which stressed that a lot more stimulus still has to work its way through the financial system

October 7, 2015

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on a higher note with the S&P 500 climbing 0.8% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) settled a bit ahead despite showing relative weakness in the early going.

Overall, the midweek session was very quiet, but there was some volatility present in the market as stocks surrendered their opening gains going into the afternoon, but returned into the middle of their ranges by the closing bell. It is worth noting that the pullback from opening highs occurred after the S&P 500 made a brief appearance above its 50-day moving average (1,997), which also served as resistance during afternoon action.

October 6, 2015

The stock market endured a shaky session on Tuesday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) eking out a slim gain while the S&P 500 (-0.4%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.7%) underperformed throughout the day.

For the second day in a row, the U.S. trading day began after the release of some disappointing economic data overseas. Today, it was Germany's Factory Orders report for August, which showed a 1.8% decline while the market had expected an increase of 0.5%. That being said, European equities were able to register gains after erasing their early losses, but the strength did not carry over the U.S. session as continued weakness in the biotech space kept the broader market under pressure.

October 5, 2015

The stock market enjoyed an upbeat start to the trading week with the S&P 500 returning near its rebound high from the middle of September. The benchmark index climbed 1.8% while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.6%) followed not far behind.

The Monday buying frenzy was not fueled by quarterly earnings as the first portion of the reporting period is still two weeks away. Instead, the advance was a continuation of the Friday rally, which was predicated on the belief that a disappointing September Nonfarm Payrolls report would prevent the Federal Reserve from raising rates at the October meeting. In that same vein, the bad-is-good dynamic appeared to be on display overseas as Japan's Nikkei (+1.6%), Germany's DAX (+2.7%), and France's CAC (+3.5%) vaulted higher even though Services PMI readings in Japan (51.4; prior 53.7) and the eurozone (53.7; expected 54.0) disappointed.

October 2, 2015

 The stock market ended the week on an upbeat note despite stumbling at the start. The S&P 500 turned a 30-point loss into a 28-point gain to end higher by 1.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.7%) outperformed. For the week, the S&P 500 jumped 1.0% while the Nasdaq added 0.5%.

The opening dive occurred after the release of the Nonfarm Payrolls report for September, which disappointed on all fronts. According to the report, only 142,000 jobs were added, which was a far cry from the Briefing.com consensus, which expected a reading of 205,000. Adding insult to injury, the prior month's job growth was revised down to 136,000 from 173,000 and hourly earnings showed no growth.

October 1, 2015

The stock market ended Thursday on a modestly higher note after climbing off its intraday low. The S&P 500 (+0.20%) settled within four points of its unchanged level while the Dow (-0.08%) and Nasdaq (+0.15%) underperformed.

Equities began the first session of Q4 just above their flat lines after a pre-market retreat caused S&P 500 futures to surrender a 25-point gain. The early morning slide from pre-market highs gathered steam following a Bloomberg report indicating the Bank of Japan does not plan to introduce additional stimulus at this time.

September 30, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a higher note, but could not avoid its second consecutive monthly decline. The S&P 500 gained 1.9% on Wednesday, but surrendered 2.7% in September. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (+2.3%) outperformed today, but lost 3.3% for the month.

The Wednesday session also marked the end of the third quarter, during which the S&P 500 fell 6.9% versus a 7.4% decline in the Nasdaq. The end of Q3 meant that quarter-end positioning and portfolio rebalancing likely played a part in today's advance

September 29, 2015

The stock market ended Tuesday on an uninspiring note after surrendering the bulk of its intraday gain. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) added two points after showing an eight-point gain during the opening hour.

Equity indices rallied at the start, but the rebound from yesterday's 2.6% dive in the S&P 500 hit resistance right beneath the 1,900 level, at which point most sectors began backing away from their morning highs. The health care sector (+0.9%) held the lead throughout the day, but the influential group also retreated from its high as market-wide selling pressure grew heavier during the afternoon.

September 28, 2015

The new week got off to a very poor start for the major indices, which experienced steady selling pressure from the opening bell in a trend-down day.  Global growth concerns were at the heart of Monday's pullback along with another dastardly performance by the biotechnology sector.

The growth concerns were triggered anew by a caustic research note on the business prospects for commodity producer Glencore (GLCNF 1.07, -0.41), an 8.8% year-over-year decline in China's industrial profits, a disappointing 1.4% monthly decline in pending U.S. home sales for August, and a declaration from International Monetary Fund (IMF) head Christine Lagarde that the IMF's forecasts for global growth of 3.3% this year and 3.8% next year are no longer realistic due principally to the weakness in emerging markets.

September 25, 2015

The stock market finished a down week on a sloppy note with the S&P 500 (-0.1%) surrendering a solid intraday gain during the final two hours of action to end flat. The benchmark index locked in a weekly decline of 1.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.0%) underperformed, ending the week lower by 2.9%. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) ended Friday in the green as blue chips avoided volatility in the biotech space.

September 24, 2015

The stock market finished Thursday on a modestly lower note after erasing the bulk of its early loss. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.3% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.5%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.4%) underperformed.

The final standing represented a notable shift from the morning dynamic that saw equity indices gap down at the start amid selling in Europe. To that point, markets in France and Germany both lost near 2.0% apiece with automakers facing continued pressure. BMW was among the weakest performers in Germany, falling 5.2%, with company executives pushing back against insinuations that the company may have taken a page out of Volkswagen's playbook, saying they are ready to provide vehicles for testing on demand.

September 23, 2015

The major averages registered their second consecutive retreat on Wednesday with the S&P 500 shedding 0.2% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) ended just ahead.

Overall, the midweek session was a choppy affair that saw the benchmark index spend some time on both sides of its flat line. That trading dynamic resulted from mixed performance among the ten sectors as three top-weighted groups—technology (+0.2%), financials (+0.1%), and health care (-0.1%)—displayed flashes of intraday strength while most of the remaining sectors struggled.

September 22, 2015

The stock market endured a rough trading day on Tuesday with the S&P 500 surrendering 1.2% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.5%) underperformed.

Equity indices spent the duration of the session in the red after gapping lower at the start. The opening stumble occurred in response to continued concerns about China's economic growth, which was manifested through weakness in commodity prices. Furthermore, European automakers struggled with Volkswagen plunging 19.8% to extend this week's loss to 34.7% after announcing the establishment of a EUR6.50 billion reserve in anticipation of costs associated with the Department of Justice probe into the company's diesel engines. European markets registered losses across the board with Germany's DAX tumbling 3.8%.

September 21, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a higher note despite seeing some intraday volatility. The S&P 500 gained 0.5% while the Nasdaq Composite underperformed throughout the day, but was able to settle just above its flat line.

Equity indices rallied out of the gate with the advance continuing through the first hour of action. All ten sectors took part in the opening move higher, but health care was quick to surrender its gain. The countercyclical group ended lower by 1.4% while biotechnology struggled mightily, sending the iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB 340.78, -15.98) lower by 4.5%.

September 18, 2015

 The stock market ended the week on a broadly lower note. The S&P 500 lost 1.6%, surrendering 0.2% for the week, while the Nasdaq (-1.4%) outperformed, finishing the week higher by 0.1%.

Equity indices spent the entire Friday session in the red after heavy selling in the futures market ensured a lower start. The overnight weakness in futures was accompanied by a retreat in Europe as investors shied away from risk assets amid the persistent uncertainty. On one hand, Greece will vote for a new parliament on Sunday and it is unclear whether the potential transition of power will upset the bailout agreement with eurozone creditors. On the other hand, yesterday's FOMC decision to hold the policy line has re-invited the rate-hike uncertainty that had pressured equity markets going into the September meeting. The uncertainty remains in place because Fed Chair Yellen, in her press conference, maintained that FOMC members are still looking to raise rates before the year ends.

September 17, 2015

 The major averages hold modest midday gains with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) trading ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.2%).

Broadly speaking, the first half of the trading day has been quiet ahead of a volatility storm that is expected to be unleashed by the release of the FOMC policy directive at 14:00 ET. That policy statement could call for the first fed funds rate hike in more than nine years, but the fed funds futures market implies only a 30% chance of a that hike taking place today. Similarly, economist polled by Briefing.com expect the Fed to maintain the target rate at 0.25%.

September 16, 2015

The major averages strung together their second consecutive advance with the S&P 500 climbing 0.9%. The benchmark index extended its weekly gain to 1.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) underperformed, but still brought its week-to-date advance up to 1.4%. Read More

September 15, 2015

The stock market raced higher on Tuesday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.4%) pacing the advance while the S&P 500 (+1.3%) followed not far behind. Thanks to the broad-based rally, the S&P 500 erased all of its decline from Monday and then some, settling at its best level since August 28.

September 14, 2015

The stock market began the week on a lower note with the S&P 500 surrendering 0.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) outperformed slightly.

Overall, the Monday affair was very quiet with many investors sticking to the sidelines ahead of Thursday's FOMC policy announcement, which could feature a fed funds rate hike. To that point, fewer than 800 million shares changed hands at the NYSE floor versus a 20-day average of 984 million.

September 11, 2015

 The stock market finished the abbreviated trading week on a higher note. The S&P 500 added 0.5%, extending its weekly gain to 2.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) outperformed slightly, adding 3.0% for the week.

Broadly speaking, the Friday session was very quiet and did not feature any major macroeconomic or company-specific developments.

September 10, 2015

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a higher note after enduring a shaky start to the trading day. The S&P 500 added 0.5%, extending this week's gain to 1.6% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%) outperformed and will enter the Friday session up 2.4% for the week.

September 9, 2015

The stock market ended Tuesday on a defensive note despite enjoying an upbeat start to the session. The S&P 500 began the day with a 15-point gain, which morphed into a 27-point loss by the close. The benchmark index surrendered 1.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.2%) settled a bit ahead.

September 8, 2015

After losing 3.4% last week, the restless stock market began the holiday-shortened week with a broad-based surge. The Nasdaq Composite led the way, spiking 2.7% while the S&P 500 jumped 2.5% with the bulk of the advance taking place at the opening bell.

September 4, 2015

The stock market finished the first week of September on a defensive note after a daylong retreat pressured the S&P 500 (-1.5%) back to Wednesday's opening levels. The benchmark index lost 3.4% for the week while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) outperformed, ending the... Read More

September 3, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover eight points above fair value after hitting their best levels of the morning shortly after Europe opened for action. Since then, futures have surrendered about a third of... Read More

September 2, 2015

The stock market snapped its two-day skid on Wednesday with the Nasdaq Composite leading the advance. The tech-heavy index climbed 2.5% while the Dow (+1.8%) and S&P 500 (+1.8%) registered slimmer gains.   Read More

September 1, 2015

The major averages trade broadly lower at midday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-2.5%) and S&P 500 (-2.6%) trailing the Nasdaq Composite (-2.3%).   Equity indices slumped out of... Read More

August 31, 2015

There was oil today and then there was everything else.  That doesn't mean, though, that "everything else" wasn't interesting.  It's just that the movement in oil prices was so spectacular that it garnered top billing throughout the session. To the latter point, crude prices were down 3.6% in early trading to... Read More

August 28, 2015

 After enduring a whirlwind week, the major averages ranged near their flat lines throughout the Friday session, ending little changed.   Read More

August 27, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive advance on Thursday with the S&P 500 jumping 2.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (+2.5%) outperformed slightly. The market endured a late afternoon swoon, but was able to return to its high by the close. Read More

August 26, 2015

 The stock market rebounded from six days of consecutive losses on Wednesday with the S&P 500 spiking 3.9%. The benchmark index narrowed its weekly loss to 1.5% while the Nasdaq gained 4.2%, trimming this week's decline to 0.2%. Equity indices began the day on a higher note after index futures rallied... Read More

August 25, 2015

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a lower note despite starting the day with a sharp spike. The S&P 500 lost 1.4%... Read More

August 24, 2015

Global equity markets began the last full week of August with a broad-based tumble that began overnight in Asia and continued into the U.S. session. When the dust settled, the S&P 500 ended lower by 3.9% after opening with a 5.3% loss while... Read More

August 21, 2015

The stock market wrapped up a defensive week with a Friday plunge that sent the S&P 500 (-3.2%) lower by 65 points to levels not seen since late October. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 5.8% while the Nasdaq Composite underperformed, diving... Read More

August 20, 2015

The stock market registered its third consecutive decline on Thursday with the S&P 500 (-2.1%) slashing below its 200-day moving average (2,078). The benchmark index slid to levels not seen since early February while the Nasdaq Composite (-2.8%) displayed relative weakness throughout the... Read More

August 19, 2015

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on a lower note after enduring a volatile day that included opening weakness, an afternoon rebound, and a slide from rebound highs. When the dust settled, the S&P 500 ended lower by 0.8%, turning a slim... Read More

August 18, 2015

After enjoying a broad-based spike on Monday, the stock market surrendered more than half of that gain on Tuesday. The S&P 500 lost 0.3%, narrowing its weekly advance to 0.3%, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) underperformed. Although the Tuesday session produced a different outcome than Monday's affair, investor participation remained below-average... Read More

August 17, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on an upbeat, albeit quiet, note with the S&P 500 climbing 0.5%. The benchmark index turned an opening ten-point loss into an eleven-point gain while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) displayed relative strength throughout the session. Equity indices faced some short-lived weakness at the start... Read More

August 14, 2015

The stock market ended a volatile week on a modestly higher note with the S&P 500 adding 0.4%. The benchmark index extended its weekly gain to 0.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) underperformed, ending the week higher by 0.1%. The first four trading days of the week were jam-packed with macroeconomic... Read More

August 13, 2015

The major averages hold modest midday gains with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) trading just ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) and S&P 500 (+0.3%). The first half of today's session has been relatively quiet after Asian markets rebounded across the board during overnight action. The People's Bank of China... Read More

August 11, 2015

Global equity markets retreated on Tuesday as investors responded to the overnight devaluation of China's yuan. Specifically, the People's Bank of China lowered the yuan fix by the largest amount on record, sending the USD/CNY pair higher by 1.9% to 6.3249. The move invited renewed trepidations about the pace of... Read More

August 10, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a sharply higher note with the S&P 500 spiking 1.3% while the Dow (+1.4%) and Nasdaq (+1.2%) bookended the benchmark index.   font color="#000000" face="Calibri"... Read More

August 7, 2015

 The major averages closed out the first week of August on a lower note with the S&P 500 losing 0.3%. The benchmark index settled just above its 200-day moving average (2,073) after testing that level for the first time since... Read More

August 6, 2015

The major indices have not acted well in the early-going, cutting through the morass of a flattish open to engage in a trend-down day so far.  The timing of the move is interesting and also somewhat telling.  That is, the weakness comes on the heels of a relatively disappointing rebound... Read More

August 5, 2015

The stock market snapped its three-day skid on Wednesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%. The benchmark index settled behind the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%), but ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%), which ended in the red. Equity indices began the day with gains, but the early strength was just... Read More

August 5, 2015

Paycom Software, Inc. (PAYC) Paycom Software is up 20% today after releasing a promising earnings report yesterday afternoon. Results came in better than expected compared to analyst projections, and guidance was also strong for the third quarter. The company's EPS was 10 cents per share, beating the... Read More

August 4, 2015

The stock market registered its third consecutive decline on Tuesday with the S&P 500 shedding 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) underperformed.   Equity indices spent the first... Read More

August 3, 2015

The stock market began August on a defensive note with a retreat that sent the S&P 500 below its 50-day (2,099) moving average. The benchmark index was down as much as 0.8%, but narrowed its loss to 0.3% by the close, ending ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.5%). Equities... Read More

July 31, 2015

The stock market ended July on a cautious note with the S&P 500 shedding 0.2%. Despite today's downtick, the benchmark index added 1.2% for the week, ending the month higher by... Read More

July 30, 2015

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a slightly higher note after rebounding off its opening low. The S&P 500 settled just above its flat line while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%)... Read More

July 29, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive advance on Wednesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.7% to extend its weekly gain to 1.4%. The benchmark index overtook its 100- (2,095) and 50-day... Read More

July 28, 2015

The stock market snapped its five-day losing streak with a daylong Tuesday rally that sent the S&P 500 higher by 1.2%. The benchmark index tested its 100-day moving average (2,095) during afternoon... Read More

July 27, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a cautious note with... Read More

July 24, 2015

It can't be said that the week closed on a high note — certainly not for the broader market anyway.  There were some individual standouts like Amazon.com (AMZN 530.50, +48.32),... Read More

July 23, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade little changed following a range-bound night that saw S&P 500 futures trade inside a five-point range. Currently, futures on the benchmark index hover three points above fair value. Today's economic data will be limited to weekly Initial Claims, which will be released at 8:30 ET (Briefing.com consensus... Read More

July 22, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a lower note with the Nasdaq Composite pacing today's retreat. The tech-heavy index lost 0.7% while the Dow (-0.4%) and S&P 500 (-0.2%) settled closer to their flat lines. font color="#000000"... Read More

July 21, 2015

The stock market retreated on Tuesday with the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) backing away from yesterday's record close. However, the tech-heavy index held up relatively well considering the Dow (-1.0%) and S&P 500 (-0.4%) registered wider losses. font color="#000000" face="Calibri"... Read More

July 20, 2015

The stock market began the week on a higher, albeit sleepy, note with the S&P 500 (+0.1%) testing its record close from May. The benchmark index backed away from its session high into the close, settling a bit behind the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%),... Read More

July 17, 2015

The major averages finished an upbeat week on a mixed note with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) posting a solid gain while the Dow (-0.2%) and S&P 500 (+0.1%) underperformed throughout the... Read More

July 16, 2015

The major averages sport midday gains with the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) trading well ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%) as blue chip names struggle to keep pace with biotechnology and technology. Today's advance began in the futures market last night with better than expected earnings from Intel (INTC... Read More

July 15, 2015

The major averages snapped their four-day win streak on Wednesday as the market slipped into the red during afternoon action. It is worth noting that the late slip occurred amid reports... Read More

July 14, 2015

The major average registered their fourth consecutive advance on Tuesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.5%. The benchmark index reclaimed its 50-day moving average (2,100) at the start of the session... Read More

July 13, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 (+1.1%) registering the bulk of its 23-point gain shortly after the opening bell. The benchmark index padded that advance during the final hour, settling just below its 50-day moving average (2,100). Equity indices spiked at the... Read More

July 10, 2015

The major averages ended the week on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 climbing 1.2%. Thanks to the advance, the benchmark index returned above its 200-day moving average (2,056), ending the week little changed.   p... Read More

July 9, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade sharply higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover 21 points above fair value after climbing steadily throughout the night. The overnight advance occurred as China's... Read More

July 8, 2015

The major averages ended the midweek session on a lower note following a trading day that featured numerous trading halts at home and abroad. The S&P 500 fell below its 200-day moving average (2,056), ending lower by 1.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.8%)... Read More

July 7, 2015

The stock market was on track for a sharp decline in the early going, but the opening weakness became a distant memory by the end of the trading day. The S&P 500... Read More

July 6, 2015

Monday was a busy day for equities across the globe, beginning with an overnight slide in the futures market after the Greek referendum produced 61.3% 'no' votes, rejecting the bailout terms previously... Read More

July 2, 2015

The major averages ended an abbreviated trading week on a cautious note, which wasn't all that surprising since the weekend will feature a Sunday referendum in Greece. The S&P 500 settled... Read More

July 1, 2015

  div style="border: currentColor; border-image: none; text-align: left; color: rgb(0, 0,... Read More

June 30, 2015

The stock market ended the final June session on a higher note, but that did not stop the S&P 500 (+0.3%) from registering a 2.1% loss for the month. Equity indices... Read More

June 29, 2015

Greek leaders said 'no' to the Eurogroup's cash-for-reform proposal and investors around the world in turn said 'no' to buying stocks on Monday. Just about every major market closed down at least 2.0%. The hardest-hit markets were the European bourses, which included Germany's DAX Index (-3.6%) and Spain's span... Read More

June 26, 2015

The stock market ended the week on a mixed note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) posting a modest gain while the Nasdaq... Read More

June 25, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive decline on Thursday with the S&P 500 (-0.3%) sliding below its 50-day simple moving average (2,107). The benchmark index held a modest gain through the... Read More

June 24, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a broadly lower note with the S&P 500 losing 0.7% and turning negative for the week (-0.1%). Equity indices began the day with... Read More

June 23, 2015

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a modestly higher note after spending the bulk of the day near their flat lines. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after trading inside an eight-point range. Equity indices held modest gains at the start amid continued optimism that Greece will be able to... Read More

June 22, 2015

The stock market opened the new trading week on a higher note with the Dow and S&P 500 gaining 0.6% apiece while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) outperformed.   Equity indices... Read More

June 19, 2015

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a lower note as participants showed reluctance to step in ahead of a weekend that will be filled with uncertainty related to Greece. The S&P 500 lost 0.5% on Friday, but gained 0.8% for the... Read More

June 18, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher despite cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover four points above fair value after climbing off their lows ahead of the European session. The Eurogroup has begun today's meeting with little hope that a deal will be struck between Greece and its creditors. Meanwhile,... Read More

June 17, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 settling four points below its 50-day moving average (2,104). The benchmark index added 0.2% while the Dow and Nasdaq posted comparable gains. font color="#000000"... Read More

June 16, 2015

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 adding 0.6%. In addition to posting a solid gain, the benchmark index reclaimed its 100-day moving average (2,089) after settling below that mark on Monday. Equity indices began the day near their flat lines and rallied... Read More

June 15, 2015

The major averages hover in the red at midday with the S&P 500 (-0.4%) trading behind the Dow (-0.6%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%).   Equity indices stumbled out of the... Read More

June 12, 2015

The stock market ended the week on a lower note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average pacing the Friday decline. The price-weighted index lost 0.8%, but added 0.3% for the week, while the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.7%, narrowing its weekly gain to a slim 0.1%. The Friday session started... Read More

June 11, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade near their flat lines after spending the night inside narrow ranges. The S&P 500 futures hover three points above fair value after maintaining a four-point range throughout the night. This week has been very quiet on the economic front, but things will get a bit busier today... Read More

June 10, 2015

After struggling with its 100-day moving average (2,086) on Tuesday, the S&P 500 wasted no time charging back above that mark on Wednesday. The benchmark index gained 1.2% while the Dow (+1.3%) and Nasdaq Composite (+1.3%) outperformed throughout the session. In addition to regaining its 100-day average,... Read More

June 9, 2015

The major averages ended the Tuesday session near their flat lines with the S&P 500 registering a slight gain (+0.04%) to snap its three-day skid while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.2%) settled in the red. Equity indices slumped at the start with investor sentiment pressured by the continued lack of progress between... Read More

June 8, 2015

The major averages began the new trading week on a cautious note with the S&P 500 (-0.7%) settling beneath its 100-day moving average (2,085) for the first time since late March. The benchmark index retreated into the afternoon while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.9%)... Read More

June 5, 2015

The stock market ended the week on a flat note, locking in its second consecutive weekly decline. The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, losing 0.7% for the week while the Nasdaq Composite... Read More

June 4, 2015

The stock market finished the Thursday session on a lower note following a daylong retreat that sent the S&P 500 (-0.9%) below its 50-day moving average (2,100). As a result, the benchmark... Read More

June 3, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a modestly higher note, but once again, investor participation was on the light side with fewer than 670 million shares changing hands at the NYSE floor. The S&P 500 added 0.2% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) outperformed. Equity indices began the day... Read More

June 2, 2015

The stock market registered a slim loss on Tuesday, making for a near carbon copy of yesterday's affair with the S&P 500 shedding 0.1%.   Equities faced some selling pressure... Read More

June 1, 2015

The stock market began June on a modestly higher note with the S&P 500 adding 0.2%. Index futures spiked just before 7:00 ET, reacting to chatter that a deal between Greece and its creditors will be announced today. That rumor was struck down within 15 minutes of making the rounds, but... Read More

May 29, 2015

The major averages registered their second consecutive decline on Friday, but they managed to end May in the green. The S&P 500 lost 0.6% today, but added 1.1% for the month while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) ended in-line with the S&P 500 on Friday, but gained 2.6% in May. Equity indices... Read More

May 28, 2015

The stock market spun its wheels throughout the Thursday session, ending on a modestly lower note. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% after spending the entire day in negative territory amid light volume. Equity indices began the day in the red with some residual damage to risk tolerance after China's Shanghai Composite... Read More

May 27, 2015

The major averages enjoyed a daylong rally on Wednesday that helped the S&P 500 (+0.9%) narrow its week-to-date decline to just 0.1%. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite (+1.5%) closed at a fresh record high (5,106.59) and turned its weekly decline into a 0.3% advance... Read More

May 26, 2015

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May 22, 2015

The stock market endured a range-bound Friday, which was a fitting end to a quiet week. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.2% after spending the day in a six-point range... Read More

May 21, 2015

The major averages hold modest midday gains with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) trading ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.3%). True to recent form, the stock market has spent the first half of the session in a narrow range with the S&P 500 bouncing between 2,122 and 2,133. The benchmark index spent... Read More

May 20, 2015

The major averages finished the midweek session on a flat note. The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, but still marked a fresh intraday record high at 2,134.72 while the Nasdaq Composite (unch) outperformed.   p style="margin: 0in 0in... Read More

May 19, 2015

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on an unchanged note after spending the entire day near their flat lines. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.1% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) outperformed slightly, edging up to another record closing high. Overall, the Tuesday session was a snoozer that... Read More

May 18, 2015

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on an upbeat note. The Nasdaq Composite led the way, climbing 0.6%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) and S&P 500 (+0.3%) underperformed, but still registered new record closing highs at 18,298.88 and... Read More

May 15, 2015

The stock market ended the Friday session on a flat note and completed its second consecutive weekly round trip. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) settled just above its flat line, inching up to a new closing record high at 2,122.73 while the Nasdaq (-0.1%) lagged throughout the day. For the week,... Read More

May 14, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover 12 points above fair value with the entire advance coming after the start of the European session. Meanwhile, Treasuries have recovered the bulk of yesterday's losses with the 10-yr yield down two basis points... Read More

May 13, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a flat note after sliding from its opening high. The S&P 500 settled just below its flat line to register its third consecutive decline while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) outperformed throughout the day. Prior to the open, the Retail Sales report for April... Read More

May 12, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade near their pre-market lows amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade 17 points below fair value after notching their lows at the start of the European session. The retreat in futures has occurred amid continued weakness in Treasuries with the 10-yr yield higher by... Read More

May 11, 2015

The stock market followed up Friday's broad-based rally with an outing on Monday that never got on track due to a variety of reasons: Technical resistance The S&P 500 got brushed back early following a test of its closing high for the year (2117.69) Rising long-term rates with the yield on the 10-yr... Read More

May 8, 2015

The stock market enjoyed a broad-based surge on Friday, which helped the S&P 500 (+1.4%) erase its weekly loss. As a result, the benchmark index added 0.4% for the week. Equity indices registered the bulk of their gains at the open thanks to a pair of factors that underpinned the sharp... Read More

May 7, 2015

The major averages hover near their highs at midday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) and Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) trading ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.5%).   The current standing represents a drastic shift from the dynamic that was on display during the overnight session when Treasuries and index futures faced... Read More

May 6, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive decline on Wednesday with the S&P 500 (-0.5%) bouncing off its 100-day moving average (2,070).   Equity indices began the day with slim gains, but the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 quickly returned below their 50-day moving averages and continued lower throughout the day. Adding... Read More

May 5, 2015

  The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a sharply lower note following a daylong retreat that was paced by the Nasdaq Composite (-1.6%). For its part, the S&P... Read More

May 4, 2015

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on an upbeat,... Read More

May 1, 2015

The stock market ended a defensive week on an upbeat note. The S&P 500 gained 1.1% to narrow its weekly decline to 0.4% while the Nasdaq (+1.3%) outperformed slightly today, but lost 1.7% since last Friday. The final session of the week was very quiet with the bulk of the action... Read More

April 30, 2015

The stock market has spent the first half of the Thursday session in negative territory with the Russell 2000 (-1.3%) and Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) trading behind the S&P 500 (-0.7%). Equity indices slumped at the start, all but ignoring generally positive economic data. Instead, the market has been pressured by losses... Read More

April 29, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a modestly lower note. The S&P 500 shed 0.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) underperformed throughout the session. Equity indices struggled in the early going after the advance reading of Q1 GDP (0.2%; Briefing.com consensus 1.0%) missed expectations. However, that disappointment was... Read More

April 28, 2015

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note with the Dow (+0.4%) and S&P 500 (+0.3%) registering modest gains while the Nasdaq (-0.1%) settled in the red. Equity indices spent the bulk of the trading day near their flat lines, save for a morning retreat, which was retraced... Read More

April 27, 2015

The stock market began the week with a pullback from record levels, but not before setting fresh intraday record highs during the opening minutes of action. The S&P 500 (-0.4%) registered its first decline in four sessions while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) underperformed.... Read More

April 24, 2015

The stock market wrapped up a strong week with a record finish even as economic data remained weak. The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.2% and registered a fresh record closing high at 2117.69 while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) outperformed and posted another record close. Tragically, the Dow Jones Industrial... Read More

April 23, 2015

  The stock market posted its second consecutive gain with the S&P 500 (+0.2%) notching a fresh intraday record high at 2,120.49. More notably, the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) set a... Read More

April 22, 2015

The major averages registered modest midweek gains with the S&P 500 (+0.5%) ending... Read More

April 21, 2015

The stock market ended Tuesday on a mixed note with the Dow and S&P 500 losing 0.5% and 0.2%, respectively, while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) outperformed. Today's session was relatively quiet... Read More

April 20, 2015

The stock market began the week on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 (+0.9%) erasing the bulk of its decline from Friday. The benchmark index reclaimed its 50-day moving average (2,086) at the start and spent the remainder of the day near... Read More

April 17, 2015

The major averages ended Friday with a broad-based retreat that caused the market to turn negative for the week. The S&P 500 lost 1.1%, ending the week lower by 1.0%, while the... Read More

April 16, 2015

The major averages ended Thursday on a modestly lower note, but they were able to climb off their opening lows. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% after spending the day in a 12-point... Read More

April 15, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note after climbing throughout the day. The S&P 500 gained 0.5% while the Russell 2000 (+0.7%) spent the day in the lead.    Equity indices rallied out of the gate, all but ignoring news that China's GDP growth (+7.0% year-over-year) has... Read More

April 14, 2015

. The major averages ended Tuesday on a mixed note after spending the day near their flat lines. The S&P 500 added 0.2% while the Nasdaq settled lower by 0.2%.   Equity indices slipped... Read More

April 13, 2015

The major averages began the new trading week on a lower note. The S&P 500 surrendered 0.5% after spending the day in a steady retreat from its opening high while the Nasdaq Composite shed 0.2% after showing relative strength throughout the day. p... Read More

April 10, 2015

The major averages ended the week on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 adding 0.5%. The benchmark index extended its weekly advance to 1.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) underperformed... Read More

April 9, 2015

The stock market has endured a volatile start to the Thursday session. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) currently holds a modest gain, which puts the index in the top half of today's trading range.   Equity indices began the day with slim gains amid early strength in biotechnology, but the market hit a... Read More

April 8, 2015

The stock market ended Wednesday on a higher note, but not before making a couple appearances in the red. The S&P 500 added a modest 0.3% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%) outperformed.br... Read More

April 7, 2015

Equity indices halted their two-day win streak on Tuesday with the S&P 500 shedding 0.2%. The benchmark index surrendered its modest intraday gain during the final hour while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%)... Read More

April 6, 2015

The major averages began the week on an upbeat note after shaking off their opening losses that were brought on by a disappointing jobs report for March. The S&P 500 spiked 0.7% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) followed not far behind.  The Nonfarm Payrolls report for March was released on Friday... Read More

April 2, 2015

The major averages eked out modest gains on Thursday after spending the day inside narrow ranges. The S&P 500 gained 0.4% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) underperformed. The market ended the abbreviated week on a mixed note with the S&P 500 adding 0.3% while the Nasdaq shed 0.1% for the... Read More

April 1, 2015

The major averages kicked off April with a retreat that sent the S&P 500 lower by 0.4%. The benchmark index settled in-line with the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite, with the latter catching up during the final hour. Equity indices spent the entire day in the red and... Read More

March 31, 2015

The stock market extended its March decline on Tuesday, but was able... Read More

March 30, 2015

The major averages rallied throughout the Monday session with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.5%) ending in the lead while the S&P 500 (+1.2%) and Nasdaq (1.2%) followed not far behind. The key indices began the week on an upbeat note, aided by overnight news indicating China has loosened its lending... Read More

March 27, 2015

The major averages registered their first advance of the week on Friday with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) ending ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.2%). Despite today's modest uptick, the two indices... Read More

March 26, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade near their pre-market lows amid defensive action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover 13 points below fair value after retreating throughout the night.   The pullback in futures has taken place despite dollar weakness that has the Dollar Index (96.54, -0.44) trading lower by 0.5%. However, it is... Read More

March 25, 2015

The stock market registered its third consecutive decline on Wednesday with the S&P 500 ending lower by 1.5%. The benchmark index settled below its 50-day moving average (2,067) while the Nasdaq Composite (-2.0%) underperformed throughout the day.   The S&P 500 hovered near its flat line during the opening hour, but high-beta... Read More

March 24, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive decline on Tuesday with the S&P 500 retreating 0.6%. The benchmark index ended in-line with the Dow Jones Industrial Average while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) outperformed slightly.   Equity indices traded near their flat lines through the first half of the session before sliding to... Read More

March 23, 2015

The stock market began the trading week on a sleepy note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) and S&P 500 (-0.2%) surrendered their slim gains during the final hour while the Nasdaq Composite settled lower by 0.3% after lagging throughout the session. p... Read More

March 20, 2015

The major averages ended the week on an upbeat note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.9%) in the lead. The price-weighted index ended the week higher by 2.1% while the S&P 500 (+0.9%) gained 2.7% for the week. p style="margin: 0in 0in... Read More

March 19, 2015

U.S. equity futures hold slim pre-market losses following yesterday's broad-based surge that sent the S&P 500 higher by 1.2%. The S&P 500 futures hover one point below fair value.   The Dollar Index (98.78, +0.22) plunged shortly after yesterday's cash close, but is now back at levels seen two weeks ago. Meanwhile,... Read More

March 18, 2015

The stock market spent the first half of the Wednesday session in the red, but surged into the green following the latest policy statement from the Federal Open Market Committee. The... Read More

March 17, 2015

Happy St Patrick's Day. The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note ahead of Wednesday's release of the latest policy directive from the Federal Reserve. The Nasdaq Composite added 0.2% while the S&P... Read More

March 16, 2015

The stock market rebounded from last week's decline with a Monday rally that sent the S&P 500 (+1.4%) back above its 50-day moving average (2,060). The benchmark index narrowed its March... Read More

March 13, 2015

Triskaidekaphobia or the fear of the number 13. Friday the thirteen was not good to the markets today. The stock market finished the week on a defensive note with the S&P 500 (-0.6%) returning below its 50-day moving average (2,059). The benchmark index settled ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial... Read More

March 12, 2015

The major averages sport solid midday gains with the Dow (+1.0%) and S&P 500 (+0.9%) trading ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%).   Equity indices charged out of the gate and registered the bulk of their gains during the opening hour as part of a broad-based rebound after two days of selling.... Read More

March 11, 2015

The Dow (-0.2%), Nasdaq (-0.2%), and S&P 500 (-0.2%) registered modest losses on Wednesday while the Russell 2000 (+0.6%) outperformed. The small-cap index climbed steadily throughout the afternoon while the S&P... Read More

March 10, 2015

The stock market endured a daylong selloff on Tuesday with the S&P 500 (-1.7%) sliding below its 50-day moving average. The benchmark index surrendered its Q1 gain and is now down 0.7% since the end of 2014 while the Dow (-1.9%) underperformed.   Equities stumbled out of the gate after the Dollar... Read More

March 9, 2015

The stock market began the week on an upbeat note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.8%) pacing the Monday advance. The price-weighted index settled well ahead of the S&P 500... Read More

March 6, 2015

The major averages ended the week on a broadly lower note with the Dow (-1.5%) and S&P 500 (-1.4%) surrendering the bulk of their 2015 gains. The two indices narrowed their respective quarter-to-date gains to 0.2% and 0.6% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) outperformed and remains higher by 4.0% since... Read More

March 5, 2015

  The stock market ended the Thursday session on a modestly higher note with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) settling in the lead. The tech-heavy index is now up 0.4% week-to-date, while the S&P 500 (+0.1%) will enter the Friday session lower by 0.2% for the week.   In a way, today's session fit... Read More

March 4, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive retreat on Wednesday with the S&P 500 losing 0.4%. The benchmark index managed to cut its loss in half by the closing bell while the... Read More

March 3, 2015

The stock market endured a broad-based retreat on Tuesday that caused the S&P 500 (-0.5%) to surrender the bulk of its advance from Monday. The benchmark index settled ahead of the Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) with eight sectors registering losses. All in all, it... Read More

March 2, 2015

The first trading day of March was a good day for the stock market and a lousy day for the Treasury market. The former rallied, featuring a return above 5,000 for the Nasdaq Composite and new record closes for both the Dow Jones... Read More

February 27, 2015

The stock market capped a quiet week with a subdued Friday session. However, it is worth noting that the range-bound week followed sharp gains registered earlier this month. The S&P 500 shed 0.3% on Friday to narrow its February gain to 5.5% while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) underperformed today, but... Read More

February 26, 2015

The major averages hover near their flat lines at midday with the Dow (-0.1%) and S&P 500 (-0.1%) showing modest losses while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) has displayed relative strength since... Read More

February 25, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a flat note after spending the trading day in a narrow range. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% while the Nasdaq (-0.02%) registered its first loss since February 9.   Once again, today's session featured below-average activity with only 688 million shares changing hands at... Read More

February 24, 2015

The major averages endured another quiet session on Tuesday before a late afternoon rally sent the S&P 500 (+0.3%) to a new record high. The price-weighted Dow (+0.5%) outperformed while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) and Russell 2000 (+0.1%) struggled to keep up. Once... Read More

February 23, 2015

The major averages began the new week on a sleepy note. The S&P 500 ended flat after spending the day in a seven-point range while the Nasdaq (+0.1%) finished a little ahead... Read More

February 20, 2015

WRAPX Closing Market Summary: S&P 500 Settles at Fresh Record High The major averages finished what had been a range-bound week with a Friday rally that helped the S&P 500 (+0.6%) add 0.6% for the... Read More

February 19, 2015

The stock market endured yet another range-bound, low-volume affair that saw the S&P 500 (-0.1%) end just below its flat line. The benchmark index will enter Friday unchanged for the week while... Read More

February 18, 2015

The major averages finished the Wednesday session on a flat note thanks to a late afternoon crawl that lifted the market off its low. The S&P 500 ended unchanged while the Nasdaq... Read More

February 17, 2015

The stock market kicked off an abbreviated trading week with a sleepy Tuesday session that had the S&P 500 (+0.2%) locked in an eleven-point range while the tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.1%) spent the... Read More

February 13, 2015

The stock market finished a strong week on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 (+0.4%) setting a fresh closing record high at 2,096.99. The benchmark index posted a weekly gain of 2.0% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.8%) outperformed to end the week higher by 3.2%.   Equity indices climbed out of... Read More

February 12, 2015

  The stock market finished the Thursday session on a broadly higher note. The S&P 500 (+1.0%) settled just six points below its record high that was registered in late December while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.2%) outperformed.   Equity indices began the day with modest gains and continued their advance in undisturbed fashion... Read More

February 11, 2015

The stock market ended the midweek session on a flat note. The Dow and S&P 500 settled just below their unchanged levels while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) outperformed throughout the session.   font... Read More

February 10, 2015

The major averages snapped their two-day losing streak with a Tuesday rally that allowed the S&P 500 (+1.1%) to settle at its best level of the year. The benchmark index finished ahead of the Dow (+0.8%) and Russell 2000 (+0.6%), but behind the Nasdaq Composite (+1.3%).   Market participants were greeted this... Read More

February 9, 2015

The stock market kicked off the new week on a sleepy note with the S&P 500 (-0.4%) spending the day in a 15-point range. The benchmark index settled ahead of the Dow (-0.5%), but that was a small victory considering the S&P 500... Read More

February 6, 2015

. The major averages capped a strong week with a defensive finish. The S&P 500 lost 0.3%, to narrow its weekly gain to 3.0% while the Nasdaq (-0.4%) underperformed, but managed to... Read More

February 5, 2015

The major averages zoomed higher on Thursday, allowing the S&P 500 (+1.0%) to reclaim its loss from yesterday and then some. The benchmark index erased the remainder of its decline from January while the Dow (+1.2%) and Russell 2000 (+1.3%) outperformed.    Equity indices made the bulk of their advance during the... Read More

February 4, 2015

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on a lower note. The S&P 500 lost 0.4% after tumbling from its high to a new low during the final 30 minutes of action.   Equity indices endured some choppy waters after the S&P 500 spiked nearly 3.0% during the first two sessions of... Read More

February 3, 2015

The stock market registered its second consecutive advance with the S&P 500 climbing 1.4% to retake its 50-day moving average (2,044). The price-weighted Dow (+1.8%) fared a bit better while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.1%) underperformed.   Equities displayed strength from the get-go after markets in Europe responded positively to a Financial Times... Read More

February 2, 2015

  The stock market began the new trading week on a higher note. The S&P 500 spiked 1.3% while the Nasdaq (+0.9%) and Russell 2000 (+0.9%) underperformed.   Overall, the Monday session... Read More

January 30, 2015

The stock market ended a down month on a sharply lower note. The Dow (-1.5%) and S&P 500 (-1.3%) widened their respective January losses to 3.7% and 3.1% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.0%) lost 2.1%. Furthermore, this marked the first time since early 2012 that the market registered losses in... Read More

January 29, 2015

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points below fair value after spending the night in a steady advance off overnight lows. On... Read More

January 28, 2015

  The stock market finished the midweek session on a lower note despite showing considerable strength in the... Read More

January 27, 2015

The major averages stumbled on Tuesday with the S&P 500 (-1.3%) returning below its 50-day moving average (2,047). The benchmark index settled ahead of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.7%), but behind the Russell 2000 (-0.5%).   Stocks careened lower at the start of today's session after several large companies cautioned that... Read More

January 26, 2015

The stock market began the new week on a quiet note with the Dow (unch), Nasdaq (+0.3%), and S&P 500 (+0.3%) settling near their flat lines. The small-cap Russell 2000 (+1.0%) outperformed, but the action took place against the backdrop of anemic trading... Read More

January 23, 2015

The stock market capped a solid week with a shaky Friday session. The S&P 500 lost 0.6%, but still gained 1.6% for the week while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) was able to register its fifth consecutive advance.   Equity indices began the day amid selling activity that started in the futures market... Read More

January 22, 2015

The major averages registered their fourth consecutive advance on Thursday with the S&P 500 (+1.5%) reclaiming its 50-day moving average (2046/2047). The benchmark index erased its January loss while the Russell 2000 (+2.0%) displayed relative strength throughout the day. font color="#000000"... Read More

January 21, 2015

  Equity indices enjoyed their third consecutive advance on Wednesday with the S&P 500 climbing 0.5%.   The highly-anticipated policy meeting at the European Central Bank will take place tomorrow morning, but that did not stop the Wednesday session from being filled with central bank-related storylines. The Bank of Japan got the ball... Read More

January 20, 2015

The stock market kicked off the holiday-shortened week with a shaky Tuesday session. The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.2% after finding intraday support near its 100-day moving average (2007/2008). The tech-heavy Nasdaq outperformed, climbing 0.4%. Read More

January 16, 2015

  The major averages snapped their five-day losing streak with a broad-based advance on Friday. The S&P 500 (+1.3%) reclaimed its 100-day moving average (2,007) and narrowed its weekly decline to 1.2%.   The stock market was on shaky footing in the early going, but the overall risk tolerance was improved by a... Read More

January 15, 2015

The major averages continued their rough week with the S&P 500 (-0.9%) registering its fifth consecutive decline after failing to hold the 100-day moving average (2007). The price-weighted Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.6%) fared a bit better while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.5%) and Russell 2000 (-1.7%) underperformed.   This morning, market participants... Read More

January 14, 2015

The major averages endured their fourth consecutive decline with the S&P 500 (-0.6%) making an intraday appearance below its 100-day moving average (2,007). The tech-heavy Nasdaq outperformed, but still lost 0.5%.   Equities faced selling pressure from the start after the overnight session failed to alleviate the growth concerns that contributed to... Read More

January 13, 2015

The stock market enjoyed broad-based support at the start of the Tuesday session, but the opposite was true when the session ended. The S&P 500 lost 0.3% with eight sectors settling in the red. The final standing masks the fact that the benchmark index was up in excess of 1.0% at... Read More

January 12, 2015

The stock market began the new week on the defensive with the Nasdaq (-0.8%) and S&P 500 (-0.8%) pacing the slide. The Dow (-0.5%) and Russell 2000 (-0.3%) outperformed, but the two indices also spent the bulk of the day in negative territory.... Read More

January 7, 2015

The major averages rebounded from their recent swoon with the S&P 500 (+1.2%) posting its first gain in six sessions. The benchmark index settled just behind the Nasdaq Composite (+1.3%) while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.2%) and Russell 2000 (+1.2%) ended in-line with the S&P 500. The midweek advance occurred... Read More

January 6, 2015

Equity indices ended the Tuesday session in the red with the Russell 2000 (-1.7%) pacing the retreat. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 lost 0.9% with eight sectors registering losses. The stock market held up relatively well through the first hour of action, but the return of some recent concerns pressured cyclical sectors... Read More

January 5, 2015

The stock market began the first full week of 2015 on a cautious note. The S&P 500 lost 1.8% while the Russell 2000 (-1.3%) outperformed. Stocks began sliding at the sound of the opening bell amid weakness in Europe that was brought on by renewed fears of a potential Greek exit... Read More

January 2, 2015

The stock market began 2015 on a cautious note with the major averages surrendering their opening gains. The S&P 500 ended flat while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) settled just above its flat line. Equity indices started the day with broad-based gains, but the early buying spree ended in a... Read More

December 31, 2014

The stock market ended the last session of 2014 on a lower note. The S&P 500 lost 1.0%, but that did not stop the benchmark index from gaining 11.4% over the course of 2014. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq ended the session (-0.9%) and the year (+13.4%) ahead of the S&P... Read More

December 30, 2014

he stock market ended the Tuesday session on a broadly lower note. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) was the weakest performer among the major averages while the S&P 500 (-0.5%) ended a bit ahead of the tech-heavy index. Equities began the day in negative territory and remained below their flat lines until... Read More

December 30, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a broadly lower note. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.6%) was the weakest performer among the major averages while the S&P 500 (-0.5%) ended a bit ahead of the tech-heavy index. Equities began the day in negative territory and remained below their flat lines until... Read More

December 29, 2014

It was a full day of trading on Monday, yet the stock market acted like it was still on vacation. Volume was light and the major indices held to narrow trading ranges that bracketed the unchanged line for much of the session. The S&P 500 managed to eke out its seventh... Read More

December 26, 2014

The stock market added to its holiday gain with a Friday advance that was paced by the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%). For its part, the S&P 500 (+0.3%) climbed to a new record high at 2,088.77 with seven sectors ending in the green. Although the major averages posted decent-sized gains, the advance... Read More

December 24, 2014

The stock market had the rug pulled out from under it as the Christmas Eve session headed for the close. The S&P 500 ended flat after surrendering a five-point gain while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) outperformed. Equity indices started with slim gains and inched higher into the afternoon amid light volume,... Read More

December 23, 2014

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%) and S&P 500 (+0.2%) rallied to new record highs on Tuesday with the Dow crossing above the 18,000 mark for the first time. However, widespread losses in the biotechnology group prevented the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) from taking part in the rally. Equity indices began the... Read More

December 22, 2014

Remember last week's rally effort following the pronouncement from the FOMC that it will be patient in raising the fed funds rate? Well, it's not over yet. The stock market on Monday continued its winning ways with each of the major indices adding to their gains. Both the Dow... Read More

December 19, 2014

The stock market capped a strong week with an advance that sent the S&P 500 higher by 0.5% to extend its weekly gain to 3.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.2%) underperformed today, but the price-weighted index still managed to add 3.0% for the week. After adding more than 88 points... Read More

December 18, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade sharply higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover 25 points above fair value with the bulk of the gain coming after the start of the European session when the Swiss National Bank imposed a negative interest rate on deposits held at the span... Read More

December 17, 2014

The stock market ended the Wednesday session with solid gains that were paced by the Russell 2000. The small-cap index jumped 3.1% while the S&P 500 settled higher by 2.0% with all ten sectors registering gains. Equities climbed through the first half of action and saw an extension of their rally... Read More

December 16, 2014

The stock market endured a volatile session on Tuesday with investors keeping one eye on the oil market and one on the dollar/ruble exchange rate. The Russell 2000 (-0.1%) registered the slimmest decline while the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.9% after failing to hold its 100-day (1988) and 50-day... Read More

December 15, 2014

The major averages began the new week amid some old concerns. The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.6% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.0%) underperformed, but most of the attention was directed to crude oil trading pits once again. After plunging nearly 4.0% on Friday and inviting questions about macroeconomic implications of... Read More

December 12, 2014

The major averages ended the week on a broadly lower note with the S&P 500 registering its first weekly decline in more than two months. The benchmark index fell 1.6% to widen its weekly loss to 3.5% while the Nasdaq Composite (-1.2%) displayed relative strength, but still lost 2.7% for... Read More

December 11, 2014

The stock market rebounded from Wednesday’s broad-based weakness, but the key indices slipped on an oil slick ahead of the close. The S&P 500 added 0.5% after being up as much as 1.5% intraday to narrow this week’s decline to 1.9%. The Thursday rebound likely included a short covering element as... Read More

December 10, 2014

The major averages ended the Wednesday session on a broadly lower note. The S&P 500 lost 1.6% with all ten sectors ending in the red while the Russell 2000 (-2.1%) underperformed. For the second day in a row, the major averages slumped at the start, but unlike yesterday, the key indices... Read More

December 9, 2014

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note after starting the day with sharp losses. The Russell 2000 and Nasdaq Composite paced the rebound, climbing 1.7% and 0.5%, respectively, while the S&P 500 settled just below its flat line. The Dow shed 0.3% and was the weakest... Read More

December 8, 2014

The stock market slumped on Monday as the S&P 500 ended lower by 0.7% with seven sectors in the red. The price-weighted Dow (-0.6%) finished a little ahead of the benchmark index while the Nasdaq (-0.8%) and Russell 2000 (-1.3%) lagged. Equity markets around the world started the new week on... Read More

December 5, 2014

The Dow (+0.3%), Nasdaq (+0.2%), and S&P 500 (+0.2%) ended the Friday session near their flat lines, allowing the benchmark index to register its seventh consecutive weekly advance. The S&P 500 added 0.4% for the week, while the Russell 2000 (+0.8%) outperformed to extend its weekly gain to 0.7%. Also... Read More

December 4, 2014

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a modestly lower note ahead of Friday’s Nonfarm Payrolls report for November. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% while the Russell 2000 (-0.5%) underperformed. Thursday served as a perfect reminder for how dependent global equity markets have become on central bank stimulus. The... Read More

December 3, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note with the Russell 2000 (+1.0%) pacing the advance for the second day in a row. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 posted a more modest gain of 0.4% with seven sectors ending in the green. Similar to yesterday, equities were essentially left... Read More

December 2, 2014

The stock market enjoyed a broad rebound on Tuesday after starting the week with a Monday retreat. The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.6% while the Russell 2000 (+1.2%) displayed relative strength. Despite today’s outperformance, the small-cap index could only narrow its weekly decline to 0.4% while the S&P 500... Read More

December 1, 2014

The major averages began December on a lower note with relative weakness among cyclical sectors keeping the market under pressure throughout the day. The Nasdaq Composite (-1.3%) and Russell 2000 (-1.6%) paced the slide while the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.7% with eight sectors ending in the red. Equities faced... Read More

November 28, 2014

The stock market endured some post-Thanksgiving indigestion brought on by severe weakness in the energy sector (-6.4%). The S&P 500 (-0.3%) ended at its lowest point of the day while the Nasdaq (+0.1%) eked out a slim gain thanks to the absence of energy stocks within the tech-heavy index. Equities... Read More

November 26, 2014

The major averages ended the session near their best levels of the day with the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) finishing in the lead. The S&P 500 rose 0.3% to another record high while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) hovered near its flat line throughout the session. Meanwhile, the benchmark index spent... Read More

November 25, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a flat note. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% after spending the day in a ten-point range while the other indices also settled near their unchanged levels. Despite the flat finish, equity indices rallied at the start after the second revision to Q3 span... Read More

November 24, 2014

The major averages kicked off the holiday-shortened week with an advance that was paced by the Russell 2000 (+1.2%). The small-cap index was followed by the Nasdaq Composite (+0.9%) while the Dow (+0.04%) and S&P 500 (+0.3%) ended closer to their flat lines. Stocks rallied out of the gate with upbeat... Read More

November 21, 2014

The major averages ended an upbeat week with modest gains despite pulling back from their early highs. The S&P 500 gained 0.5% while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) underperformed. The stock marketand specifically equity futuresdonned their party hats in the early morning hours after two major central banks spiked the punchbowl.... Read More

November 20, 2014

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a modestly higher note despite a cautious start. The S&P 500 added 0.2%, ending at a fresh record at 2,052.75 while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.6%) and Russell 2000 (+1.1%) outperformed. Equities faced some pressure at the start after disappointing data from overseas led... Read More

November 19, 2014

The major averages ended the midweek session on a lower note with Tuesday’s leaderRussell 2000pacing the retreat. The small-cap index lost 1.1% while the S&P 500 surrendered 0.2% with seven sectors finishing in the red. The benchmark index slumped at the start due to notable losses among several heavily-weighted sectors. However,... Read More

November 18, 2014

The major averages ended Tuesday near their highs with the S&P 500 (+0.5%) registering its fifth consecutive advance. The benchmark index settled at a fresh record at 2,051.80 high while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) outperformed after struggling yesterday. The Tuesday session began on an unassuming note, but the health care sector... Read More

November 17, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on an unassuming note. The S&P 500 (+0.1%) added just over a point while the Nasdaq (-0.4%) and Russell 2000 (-0.8%) underperformed throughout the session. The benchmark index started under modest pressure, but was able to finish near its best level of day... Read More

November 14, 2014

The stock market followed the script on Friday of making a big statement by doing very little. The major indices held to tight trading ranges and didn’t venture that far from where they began the session. The market’s meandering disposition was a function of offsetting considerations that it is due for... Read More

November 13, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover five points above fair value after spiking overnight. However, futures have ticked down from their highs and currently trade in the middle of their range. Treasuries hold slim losses with the 10-yr yield down one... Read More

November 12, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq (+0.3%) and Russell 2000 (+0.5%) registered modest gains while the S&P 500 (-0.1%) settled just below its flat line. Equity indices began the day in negative territory, but the broad weakness was not brought upon by macroeconomic... Read More

November 11, 2014

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a flat note after spending the trading day near their unchanged levels. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after maintaining a five-point range throughout the day. Today’s trading volume (600 million shares at NYSE) represented the lowest total since early September, but... Read More

November 10, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on an unassuming note with the key indices registering modest gains. The S&P 500 added 0.3% while Russell 2000 (+0.5%) outperformed. Equity indices began the trading near their flat lines after the overnight session did little to change investor sentiment. China’s Shanghai Composite... Read More

November 7, 2014

The major averages ended Friday on a quiet note with the S&P 500 (unch) locking in a 0.7% gain for the week. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq (-0.1%) spent the duration of the day in negative territory to end the week unchanged. This morning, the latest Nonfarm Payrolls report revealed the addition... Read More

November 6, 2014

Equity indices registered modest gains on Thursday ahead of the Nonfarm Payrolls report for October (Briefing.com consensus 235,000), which will be released tomorrow. The S&P 500 added 0.4% with seven sectors ending in the green. The key indices spent the entire session in a slow and steady climb off their opening... Read More

November 5, 2014

The stock market registered a midweek gain with the S&P 500 climbing 0.6% to a fresh record high at 2,023.57. The benchmark index maintained a ten-point range while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) spent the bulk of the day near its flat line. Equities climbed at the start after yesterday’s midterm elections... Read More

November 4, 2014

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) spent the bulk of the day near its flat line while the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.3%. Stocks were pressured from the start, but the early weakness could be traced back to Europe... Read More

November 3, 2014

The stock market had its issues on Monday, mostly because of what was happening outside the stock market. To that end, the dollar hit a seven-year high against the yen, crude futures slumped below $80/bbl, and economic reports from around the globe were mixed at best. On top of that,... Read More

October 31, 2014

The stock market finished the month of October with a broad rally that sent the S&P 500 higher by 1.2%. The benchmark index extended its October advance to 2.3% and ended at a fresh record high, while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.4%) outperformed to end October with a 3.1% gain. Stocks... Read More

October 30, 2014

The major averages ended the Thursday session on a higher note with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.3%) spending the entire day in the lead. However, the strength among blue chips masked the underperformance of high-beta chipmaker and transport stocks. Furthermore, defensively-oriented health care (+1.8%) and utilities (+2.1%) finished in... Read More

October 29, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on a modestly lower note. The Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) was the weakest performer while the S&P 500 shed 0.1% with seven sectors ending in the red. The benchmark index held a slim gain at the start, but spent the day in a slow retreat... Read More

October 28, 2014

The stock market rallied on Tuesday with the S&P 500 climbing 1.2%. Small cap names had an even better showing, sending the Russell 2000 higher by 2.9%. Equity indices climbed steadily throughout the day with the S&P 500 turning positive for the month of October. The index ended the day with... Read More

October 27, 2014

The stock market began the last week of October on a cautious note. The S&P 500 slipped below its 100-day moving average (1962) and settled lower by 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) outperformed throughout the session. Equity indices faced selling pressure at the start, but the source of... Read More

October 24, 2014

The major averages capped a strong week with a rally that sent the S&P 500 higher by 0.7%. The benchmark index gained 4.1% for the week while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) extended its weekly advance to 5.3%. Equity indices endured a shaky start with a handful of concerns factoring into... Read More

October 23, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade higher despite cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover almost 17 points above fair value after spiking off their lows at the start of the European session. Economic data received since yesterday’s close has been a supportive factor with headline Manufacturing PMI readings from... Read More

October 22, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on a lower note, causing the S&P 500 (-0.7%) to snap its four-day winning streak. The benchmark index slumped into the red during afternoon action while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.9%) underperformed once again. Equity indices displayed modest gains in the early going,... Read More

October 21, 2014

The stock market enjoyed another broad-based advance on Tuesday with the S&P 500 (+2.0%) posting its fourth consecutive gain. The benchmark index made its biggest jump in more than a year and recaptured its 200-day moving average (1906.95) while the Nasdaq Composite (+2.4%) outperformed throughout the session. Equity indices began... Read More

October 20, 2014

Equity indices finished the first session of the week near their highs with the Nasdaq Composite (+1.4%) leading the way. The S&P 500 (+0.9%) settled a bit behind the tech-heavy index while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) struggled to turn positive. The price-weighted Dow spent the bulk of the session... Read More

October 17, 2014

The stock market capped a cautious week with a rally that sent the S&P 500 higher by 1.3%. The Russell 2000 (-0.3%) underperformed, but the small-cap index still ended the week higher by 2.8% versus a 1.0% decline for the S&P 500. Equities spiked at the start of the session after... Read More

October 16, 2014

The major averages endured another whipsaw session that ended with a flat finish for the S&P 500 while the Russell 2000 (+1.1%) registered its second consecutive advance. The price-weighted Dow was the weakest performer of the day with a loss of 0.2%. Equity indices tumbled out of the gate for the... Read More

October 15, 2014

The stock market endured another rough session, but the major averages managed to climb off their worst levels of the day ahead of the close. The S&P 500 lost 0.8% while the Russell 2000 rose 1.0% after showing relative strength throughout the session. Equity indices stumbled out of the gate to... Read More

October 14, 2014

The stock market snapped its three-day skid with small caps pacing the Tuesday rebound. The Russell 2000 jumped 1.2% while the S&P 500 added 0.2% with eight sectors ending in the green. However, the advance masked an afternoon slide from intraday highs that caused the Dow to end flat. Equity indices... Read More

October 13, 2014

The stock market began the new week on a defensive note despite showing some intraday strength. The S&P 500 lost 1.7% with all ten sectors ending in the red while the Russell 2000 (-0.4%) held up a bit better. Equity indices slumped in the early going amid weakness in groups that... Read More

October 10, 2014

The stock market finished a defensive week on a cautious note. The S&P 500 lost 1.2% while the Nasdaq Composite (-2.3%) lagged throughout the session. The two indices ended the week with respective losses of 3.1% and 4.5%. The key indices were pressured from the start amid big losses in the... Read More

October 9, 2014

The stock market followed Wednesday’s sharp rally with an even sharper slide that clipped all ten sectors. The S&P 500 lost 2.1% and slid back below its 100-day moving average (1962.28) while the Russell 2000 tumbled 2.7%. Equities began the trading day with modest losses, but the energy sector (-3.7%) was... Read More

October 8, 2014

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on an upbeat note despite enduring a shaky start. The S&P 500 spiked 1.8% with the bulk of the gain coming after the release of the FOMC minutes from the September meeting. Equity indices began the day near their flat lines following another... Read More

October 7, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold modest losses amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover six points below fair value after spending the entire night in negative territory. Futures slumped following a disappointing Industrial Production report from Germany (-4.0%; expected -1.5%), which has pressured the euro back below the 1.2600... Read More

October 6, 2014

It was a good start for the stock market today and that was about it. The major indices hit their best levels of the session within fifteen minutes of the opening bell and then spent the rest of the morning retracing those gains. The afternoon session produced a half-hearted rebound... Read More

October 3, 2014

he major averages finished a defensive week on an upbeat note. The S&P 500 gained 1.1% with nine sectors ending in the green. The rally helped the benchmark index narrow this week’s decline to 0.8% after being down near 3.0% at its lowest point on Thursday. Equities received a morning... Read More

October 2, 2014

The major averages ended the Thursday session on a flat note despite showing broad-based weakness in the early going. The S&P 500 ended unchanged with four sectors in the green. Equity indices started the day near their flat lines, but commenced their retreat once European Central Bank President Mario... Read More

October 1, 2014

The stock market began October and the fourth quarter on a defensive note. The major averages spent the day in a steady decline with the Nasdaq Composite leading the slide. The tech-heavy index lost 1.6%, while the S&P 500 (-1.3%) sliced through its 100-day moving average (1958) with nine sectors... Read More

September 30, 2014

The stock market finished the third quarter on a cautious note with small caps leading the retreat. The S&P 500 shed 0.3% to narrow its Q3 gain to 0.6%, while the Russell 2000 (-1.5%) widened its quarterly loss to 7.7%. Equity indices endured another volatile affair after the S&P 500 alternated... Read More

September 29, 2014

The stock market began the new week on a cautious note. The S&P 500 lost 0.3%, but managed to erase more than half of its opening decline. Thanks to the rebound, the benchmark index reclaimed its 50-day moving average (1976.78) after slipping below that level in the morning. Equities slumped at... Read More

September 26, 2014

Equity indices finished a cautious week on an upbeat note. The S&P 500 (+0.9%) and Nasdaq (+1.0%) reclaimed their 50-day moving averages, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.0%) was able to turn positive for the month (+0.1%). However, today’s rally did not feature the same conviction as yesterday with... Read More

September 25, 2014

The stock market endured a broad-based retreat on Thursday that pressured the Nasdaq (-1.9%) and the S&P 500 (-1.6%) below their 50-day moving averages, while the Dow (-1.5%) notched a session low just above that mark. All ten sectors were encompassed in the slide with eight groups posting losses of... Read More

September 24, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note despite enduring a shaky start to the day. The S&P 500 rose 0.8% with nine sectors posting gains, while the Nasdaq Composite (+1.0%) outperformed. Equity indices spent the initial 90 minutes of action near their flat lines with the S&P... Read More

September 23, 2014

The stock market finished the Tuesday session on the defensive after spending the entire day in a steady retreat. The S&P 500 (-0.6%) posted its third consecutive decline, while the small-cap Russell 2000 (-0.9%) slipped behind the broader market during afternoon action. Equity indices were pressured from the start following some... Read More

September 22, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on the defensive note with small-cap stocks pacing the retreat. The Russell 2000 (-1.4%) and Nasdaq Composite (-1.1%) displayed relative weakness, while the S&P 500 lost 0.8% with all ten sectors ending in the red. Global equities began showing some cracks overnight... Read More

September 19, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat week on a mixed note. The S&P 500 shed less than a point, ending the week higher by 1.3%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) cemented a 1.7% advance for the week. High-beta names underperformed, which weighed on the Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) and... Read More

September 18, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover seven points above fair value after climbing to highs after the start of the European session. That is somewhat fitting considering Europe, and specifically Scotland, will be in focus this evening with the referendum on... Read More

September 17, 2014

The major averages ended the midweek session with slim gains after showing some intraday volatility in reaction to the release of the latest policy directive from the Federal Open Market Committee. The S&P 500 added 0.1%, while the relative strength among small caps sent the Russell 2000 higher by 0.3%. Equities... Read More

September 16, 2014

The major averages posted solid gains ahead of tomorrow’s policy directive from the Federal Open Market Committee. The S&P 500 rallied 0.8%, while the Russell 2000 (+0.3%) could not keep pace with the benchmark index. Equity indices hovered near their flat lines during the first two hours of action, but surged... Read More

September 15, 2014

The stock market welcomed the new trading week with a mixed session that saw relative strength among large-cap stocks, while high-beta names underperformed. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.3%) and S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished near their flat lines, while the Nasdaq Composite and Russell 2000 both lost 1.1%. Equities began the... Read More

September 12, 2014

Equity indices extended this week’s losses with a broad-based retreat. The S&P 500 fell 0.6% to end the week lower by 1.1%, while the Russell 2000 (-1.1%) finished with a 0.9% decline since last Friday. Staying true to the theme observed throughout the week, the energy sector (-1.5%) tumbled out of... Read More

September 11, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market lows amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover eight points below fair value after spending the entire night in negative territory. Last evening, President Obama announced the U.S. will lead a coalition effort aimed at defeating ISIS militants in Iraq... Read More

September 10, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note with the Nasdaq Composite providing leadership. The tech-heavy index advanced 0.8%, while the S&P 500 added 0.4% with seven sectors posting gains. Equities were driven into the red shortly after the open due to notable weakness in the energy sector.... Read More

September 9, 2014

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on their lows with the S&P 500 sliding 0.7%. Small-cap stocks outperformed yesterday, but the Russell 2000 erased Monday’s uptick with a 1.2% decline. Equity indices spent the entire session in the red with the early pressure coming from the financial sector (-1.0%). The... Read More

September 8, 2014

The stock market started the first full week of September on a cautious note. The S&P 500 lost 0.3%, but the relative strength of small cap stocks helped the Russell 2000 (+0.2%) and Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) finish ahead of the benchmark index. Equity indices struggled from the get-go with the overall... Read More

September 5, 2014

The stock market finished a cautious week on a modestly higher note. The S&P 500 added 0.5%, ending the week with a slim gain of 0.2%, while the Russell 2000 (+0.3%) shed 0.2% for the week. This morning, the Nonfarm Payrolls report for August revealed the addition of 142,000 payrolls, while... Read More

September 4, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover five points above fair value following a night filled with central bank commentary. In Asia, the Bank of Japan maintained its policy stance, which was also the approach employed by the Bank of England. However,... Read More

September 3, 2014

The stock market had difficulty getting anything going on Wednesday as a wait-and-see stance permeated the trading action. That was understandable given some confusing headlines about cease-fire talk between Ukraine and Russia, Apple (AAPL 98.94, -4.36) suffering a 4.2% decline in its stock price, and the specter of policy... Read More

September 2, 2014

The headlines generally favored Tuesday being another good day for the stock market. Instead, it was just a mixed day with modest point changes on either side of the unchanged mark for the major indices. For the most part, the stock market was a sideshow. The main trading events were seen... Read More

August 29, 2014

Equity indices closed out the month of August on a modestly higher note. The Russell 2000 (+0.6%) and Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) finished ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.3%), which extended its August gain to 3.8%. Blue chips lagged with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) spending the bulk of the... Read More

August 28, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold losses amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade eight points below fair value with the bulk of the weakness coming after Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko was quoted as saying Russian forces have invaded an area southeast of Donetsk. The news sent futures to lows... Read More

August 27, 2014

The major averages ended the midweek session on a flat note after spending the day inside narrow ranges. The S&P 500 hovered near the 2,000 mark for the majority of the trading day, but slumped to new lows during the last hour of action. The index then returned to its... Read More

August 26, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold slim gains amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade three points above fair value, placing the benchmark index on track to revisit the 2,000 level at the open. Yesterday, the S&P 500 made its first ever appearance above that mark before surrendering a portion... Read More

August 25, 2014

The stock market began the last week of August on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 making its first appearance above the 2,000 level. The benchmark index added 0.5% with all ten sectors ending in the green, while the Russell 2000 (+0.5%) finished in-line despite showing relative strength at... Read More

August 22, 2014

The major averages punctuated a solid week with a subdued Friday session. The S&P 500 shed 0.2% to narrow its weekly gain to 1.7%, while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.1%) displayed relative strength. The tech-heavy index finished the week in line with the benchmark average. Market participants went into today’s session... Read More

August 21, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover three points above fair value, which puts the benchmark index on track to challenge its all-time closing high of 1987.98 and the intraday high of 1991.39. Participants have received several quarterly reports since... Read More

August 20, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on a mixed note. Blue chip listings bolstered the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%) and S&P 500 (+0.3%), while the Russell 2000 (-0.4%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.02%) underperformed. Equity indices began the day in the red, but wasted no time regaining their flat... Read More

August 19, 2014

The stock market continued its strong start to the week with a broad-based Tuesday rally that sent the S&P 500 higher by 0.5%. Nine of ten sectors registered gains while the benchmark index extended its week-to-date advance to 1.4%. Equities received an opening boost from a pair of economic data... Read More

August 18, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on an upbeat note with small caps leading the charge. The Russell 2000 gained 1.5%, while the S&P 500 advanced 0.9% with eight sectors posting gains. Equity indices surged out of the gate and spent the entire afternoon in narrow ranges near... Read More

August 15, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat week on a cautious note after a late-morning headline interrupted an extension of this week’s rally. Despite the intraday weakness, the major averages were able to climb off their lows into the close. The S&P 500 settled right below its flat line with six... Read More

August 14, 2014

The major averages posted modest gains on Thursday with the S&P 500 (+0.4%) extending its week-to-date advance to 1.2%. Small caps lagged throughout the session as the Russell 2000 (+0.2%) was unable to reclaim its 200-day moving average (1145). Despite receiving disappointing economic data from overseas (Eurozone GDP 0.0%;... Read More

August 13, 2014

The stock market ended the midweek session on an upbeat note with the Nasdaq Composite in the lead. The tech-heavy index advanced 1.0%, while the S&P 500 added 0.7% with all ten sectors ending in the green. Equity indices registered roughly half of their gains at the open with heavily-weighted... Read More

August 12, 2014

The major averages stumbled on Tuesday with the Russell 2000 pacing the slide. The small-cap index lost 0.7%, while the S&P 500 (-0.2%) gave back most of its advance from yesterday. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) ended with a slim loss. Equity indices spent the first... Read More

August 11, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade near their best levels of the morning amid upbeat action overseas. The sentiment has been boosted by de-escalation on the geopolitical front with a cease-fire holding in Gaza and separatists in Ukraine also proposing a pause in fighting. The S&P 500 futures hover five points above... Read More

August 8, 2014

The major averages finished the first full week of August on a strong note. The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.2% with all ten sectors posting gains. Thanks to the advance, the benchmark index added 0.3% for the week. Although stocks ended higher, the futures market was pressured overnight after... Read More

August 7, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher despite cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover three points above fair value after spending the entire night in positive territory. With just two economic data points on today’s schedule, market participants have been reacting to quarterly reports as the busy portion of... Read More

August 6, 2014

The major averages spent some time on both sides of their flat lines on Wednesday before ending little changed. The S&P 500 settled on its flat line with six sectors finishing in the red, while the Russell 2000 (+0.3%) displayed relative strength throughout the session. Although stocks finished on a... Read More

August 5, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a broadly lower note. The S&P 500 lost 1.0% with all ten sectors ending in the red. The Russell 2000 outperformed, but still shed 0.3%. Equity indices were on the defensive from the get-go with the early weakness attributed to disappointing data... Read More

August 4, 2014

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on an upbeat note despite enduring a shaky start to the session. The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.7% with nine sectors ending in the green. Equity indices climbed out of the gate amid upbeat action in Europe where Portugal’s Banco... Read More

August 1, 2014

The stock market finished a down week on a cautious note with small caps leading the retreat. The Russell 2000 lost 0.5%, widening its weekly decline to 2.6%, while the S&P 500 shed 0.3%. The benchmark index ended the week lower by 2.7%. This morning, the market was provided a basis... Read More

July 31, 2014

The stock market punctuated July with a broad-based retreat that sent the S&P 500 lower by 2.0% with all ten sectors ending in the red. The benchmark index posted a monthly decline of 1.5%, while the Russell 2000 (-2.3%) underperformed to end the month lower by 6.1%. To get a better... Read More

July 30, 2014

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on a mixed note with small caps displaying relative strength. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.5%) and Russell 2000 (+0.4%) registered modest gains, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.2%) and S&P 500 (+0.01%) underperformed. Despite the mixed finish, the key indices traded higher across the... Read More

July 29, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a lower note after generally upbeat earnings took the back seat to geopolitical concerns. The S&P 500 (-0.5%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) ended on their lows, while the Russell 2000 (+0.3%) displayed relative strength. Once again, market participants were focused on quarterly reports... Read More

July 28, 2014

The stock market began the last week of July on a quiet note with the S&P 500 ending less than a point above its flat line. Like the benchmark index, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) also posted a slim gain, while the Russell 2000 (-0.5%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%)... Read More

July 25, 2014

The stock market capped the trading week with losses across the major averages. The S&P 500 fell 0.5% to surrender its weekly gain, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.7%) and Russell 2000 (-0.9%) underperformed.The two indices posted respective losses of 0.8% and 0.6% for the week. Equity indices... Read More

July 24, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade four points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei -0.3%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.7%, and China’s Shanghai Composite +1.3% In economic data: China’s HSBC... Read More

July 23, 2014

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on a mixed note. The tech-heavy Nasdaq displayed relative strength, climbing 0.4%, while the S&P 500 added 0.2% with five sectors settling in the green. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.2%) spent the entire session below its flat line. Equities... Read More

July 22, 2014

U.S equity futures trade near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover four points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a higher note. Japan’s Nikkei +0.8%, China’s Shanghai Composite +1.0%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +1.7% Economic data was limited:... Read More

July 21, 2014

Just like the geopolitical environment, things could have been better today for the stock market and they could have been worse. They were worse in the early going as the major indices backpedaled quickly at the start of trading. The ostensible catalysts for the opening retreat were geopolitical concerns over... Read More

July 18, 2014

Whatever concerns the stock market had on Thursday about the downing of a Malaysian Air passenger jet in eastern Ukraine and Israel’s ground assault in Gaza, they were quickly set aside on Friday. The major indices snapped back to bullish attention, riding the belief these developments would not evolve into... Read More

July 17, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market lows amid concerns surrounding the impact of the latest set of U.S. sanctions against Russia. The S&P 500 futures trade 12 points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: The major Asian markets ended on a lower note. China’s Shanghai Composite -0.6%, Japan’s Nikkei... Read More

July 16, 2014

The stock market ended the Wednesday session on an upbeat note, but the key indices made the bulk of their move during the opening hour, while the intraday underperformance of small-cap stocks kept the market from overtaking its early high. The S&P 500 advanced 0.4%, while the Russell 2000 (-0.3%)... Read More

July 15, 2014

The major averages posted modest Tuesday losses after being unable to hold their opening gains. Small caps displayed relative weakness throughout the session, which resulted in the Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) and Russell 2000 (-1.0%) ending behind the S&P 500 (-0.2%) and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.03%). Equities appeared to... Read More

July 14, 2014

The major averages started the new trading week on an upbeat note, but the bulk of the action on Monday took place at the start of the session. The S&P 500 rose 0.5% with nine sectors registering gains, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) outperformed. For its part, the... Read More

July 11, 2014

The stock market finished the Friday session on a modestly higher note, but the slim gains could not prevent the key indices from finishing the week in the red. The S&P 500 added 0.2%, trimming its weekly loss to 0.9%, while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.4%) finished the week with a... Read More

July 9, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover five points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a lower note. Japan’s Nikkei -0.1%, China’s Shanghai Composite -1.2%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -1.6% Participants received several data points: br... Read More

July 8, 2014

The major averages registered their second consecutive decline that sent the S&P 500 lower by 0.7% with nine sectors ending in the red. Like yesterday, small-cap stocks underperformed with the Russell 2000 and Nasdaq Composite posting respective losses of 1.2% and 1.4%. In some ways, today’s session resembled yesterday’s affair... Read More

July 7, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade modestly lower amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover five points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei -0.4%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.02%, and China’s Shanghai Composite +0.03%. Economic data was limited: Japan’s Leading Index slipped... Read More

July 3, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade almost three points above fair value with some volatility expected around 8:30 ET when the June jobs report crosses the wires. The Briefing.com consensus expects the report to reveal the addition of 210,000... Read More

July 2, 2014

The stock market spent the Wednesday session in a narrow range, which resulted in the S&P 500 posting a slim gain of less than two points (0.1%) with six sectors ending in the green. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) outperformed slightly, while the Russell 2000 (-0.4%) lagged. The major... Read More

July 1, 2014

The stock market kicked off July on a strong note with small caps pacing the rally. The Nasdaq Composite and Russell 2000 jumped 1.1% and 1.0%, respectively, while the S&P 500 advanced 0.7% with nine sectors ending in the green. Equities displayed early strength after economic data reported overnight and... Read More

June 30, 2014

The stock market finished the second quarter on a subdued note with the major averages ending near their flat lines. The Nasdaq Composite (+0.2%) outperformed throughout the session, while the S&P 500 (-0.04%) surrendered its slim gain into the close. For the quarter, the S&P 500 jumped 4.7%, while the... Read More

June 27, 2014

The major averages ended the Friday session on a higher note thanks to a final-hour rally that sent the indices to session highs. The S&P 500 added 0.2%, narrowing its weekly loss to 0.1%, while the Nasdaq Composite settled higher by 0.4% to bring its weekly advance to 0.7%. In general,... Read More

June 26, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold slim losses amid quiet action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended higher. Japan’s Nikkei +0.3%, China’s Shanghai Composite +0.7%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +1.5%. In economic data: Hong Kong’s trade deficit narrowed... Read More

June 25, 2014

The stock market registered modest gains on Wednesday as participants looked past a pair of disappointing economic reports. The S&P 500 rose 0.5% with nine sectors ending higher, while the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) outperformed. Prior to the open, the S&P 500 appeared to be on track for its third consecutive decline... Read More

June 24, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a lower note despite seeing early strength. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 posted respective losses of 0.7% and 0.6%, while the Nasdaq Composite shed 0.4%. Equity indices displayed modest losses at the start, but were quick to regain their flat... Read More

June 23, 2014

The major averages started the week on a quiet note with the S&P 500 shedding less than a point. To be fair, the slight downtick was a function of some profit taking after the benchmark index registered six consecutive gains. Equity indices started the day in the red and maintained... Read More

June 20, 2014

The major averages posted modest Friday gains to punctuate an upbeat week that saw relative strength among small-cap stocks. Fittingly, the Russell 2000 (+0.3%) settled just ahead of the S&P 500 (+0.2%). The two indices extended their weekly gains to 2.2% and 1.6%, respectively. The S&P 500 spent the entire session... Read More

June 19, 2014

It was some day in the capital markets on Thursday. The major stock indices managed to hold fairly steady in what was a seesaw day of trading; longer-dated Treasuries experienced a notable reversal that left the 10-yr note down 12 ticks and yielding 2.63% while the front of the curve... Read More

June 18, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid quiet action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover in line with fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +0.9%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.1%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.5%. In economic data: China’s Housing Prices grew at... Read More

June 17, 2014

The stock market ended the Tuesday session on a modestly higher note with participants gearing up for the latest policy directive from the FOMC, which will be released on Wednesday afternoon. Small- and mid-cap stocks led the way with the Russell 2000 and S&P Mid Cap 400 climbing 0.7%... Read More

June 16, 2014

The stock market pretty much ran in circles on Monday, having closed the session close to where it began. Its indecisive nature was attributed to some worrisome-sounding headlines on the geopolitical front, yet the market action suggested it may have been owed more to a case of wait-and-see in front... Read More

June 13, 2014

The major averages posted modest Friday gains, but the advance was not strong enough to pull the key indices back into the green for the week. The S&P 500 added 0.3%, narrowing its weekly loss to 0.7%, while the Nasdaq (+0.3%) ended the week lower by 0.3%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq... Read More

June 12, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade just above their flat lines amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: “Asian markets ended lower. China’s Shanghai Composite -0.2%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.4%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.6%. “In economic data: “China’s... Read More

June 12, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade just above their flat lines amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: “Asian markets ended lower. China’s Shanghai Composite -0.2%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.4%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.6%. “In economic data: “China’s... Read More

June 12, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade just above their flat lines amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: “Asian markets ended lower. China’s Shanghai Composite -0.2%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.4%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.6%. “In economic data: “China’s... Read More

June 10, 2014

The stock market finished the Tuesday session on a mixed note. Small caps underperformed with the Russell 2000 slipping 0.2%, while the S&P 500 shed less than a point with six sectors registering losses. Equity indices entered today’s session after enjoying a big rally that sent the S&P 500 higher... Read More

June 9, 2014

The stock market finished the Monday session on a modestly higher note, but the S&P 500 (+0.1%) could not keep pace with the Russell 2000 (+0.9%). Similar to the Russell 2000, the Nasdaq (+0.3%) displayed relative strength, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.1%) settled just ahead of the S&P... Read More

June 6, 2014

The major averages finished the first week of June on an upbeat note with small-cap stocks leading the charge. The Russell 2000 gained 1.0%, extending its weekly advance to 2.7%, while the S&P 500 added 0.5% to finish the week higher by 1.3%. Stocks spent the first 90 minutes of... Read More

June 5, 2014

U.S. equity futures are little changed amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade less than a point above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.2%, Japan’s Nikkei +0.1%, and China’s Shanghai Composite +0.8%. In economic data: China’s HSBC... Read More

June 4, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold modest losses amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover two points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +0.2%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.6%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.7%. In economic data: Australia’s GDP rose 1.1%... Read More

June 3, 2014

The stock market finished the Tuesday session on a modestly lower note, but small-cap stocks underperformed once again. The Russell 2000 slipped 0.2%, while the S&P 500 snapped its three-day win streak, shedding less than a point. Equity indices faced an uphill climb from the opening bell, but the S&P... Read More

June 2, 2014

The stock market kicked off June on an unassuming note. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after spending the bulk of the day near its flat line, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) and Russell 2000 (-0.5%) underperformed throughout the session. Equity indices displayed slim gains at the open, but small-cap stocks... Read More

May 30, 2014

The major averages finished the month of May on a mixed note. The S&P 500 added 0.2%, locking in a monthly gain of 2.1%, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) and Russell 2000 (-0.5%) lagged. The two indices narrowed their monthly gains to 3.1% and 0.8%, respectively. Outside of the relative... Read More

May 29, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold slim gains amid quiet action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover almost four points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +0.1%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.3%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.5%. In economic data: Japan’s Retail Sales fell... Read More

May 28, 2014

The stock market endured a quiet session that had the S&P 500 confined to a seven-point range. The benchmark index shed 0.1%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) and Nasdaq Composite (-0.3%) followed not far behind. Small caps, however, saw some additional weakness as the Russell 2000 lost 0.5%.br... Read More

May 27, 2014

The stock market picked up where it left off Friday, riding the outperformance of the small-cap and momentum stocks to broad-based gains. In turn, a strong showing from the financial sector and continued strength in the transport stocks carried the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Transportation Average to new record... Read More

May 23, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat weak on a strong note. Small caps paced the Friday rally, which was consistent with the dynamic observed throughout the week. The Russell 2000 advanced 1.1%, extending its weekly gain to 2.1%, while the Nasdaq (+0.8%) followed not far behind, finishing the week higher... Read More

May 22, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market lows amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade in line with fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mostly higher. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.5%, Japan’s Nikkei +2.1%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.2%. In regional economic data: China’s... Read More

May 21, 2014

The major averages rallied on Wednesday, which allowed the Dow (+1.0%), Nasdaq (+0.9%), and S&P 500 (+0.8%) to reclaim yesterday’s losses. For its part, the Russell 2000 advanced 0.5% despite a brief dip into the red that took place in the morning. Even though small caps endured an intraday hiccup,... Read More

May 20, 2014

Aeroflex Holding Corp. (ARX) Aeroflex is trading in the green today, up 25.39% to $10.42. The microelectronic company saw its shares pop after news that they would be acquired. Cobham (a British aerospace and defense company) agreed to acquire Aeroflex for $10.50 per share in cash. Cobham is making the... Read More

May 19, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on a modestly higher note with small caps coming out on top. The Russell 2000 advanced 1.1%, while the S&P 500 added 0.4% with seven sectors posting gains. The underperformance of blue chip listings was apparent within the Dow Jones Industrial Average... Read More

May 16, 2014

The stock market lumbered and slumbered through most of Friday’s session, but it woke up late in the day and ended on an upbeat note. The major indices all scored modest gains, the most notable of which was the Russell 2000, which ducked into correction territory again with an early... Read More

May 16, 2014

Rackspace Holdings Inc. (RAX) Rackspace Holdings is skyrocketing today, up 17.73% to $36.12. The cloud computing company saw its shares jump after news that it hired Morgan Stanley to help explore “inbound strategic proposals.” The proposals could include a partnership with or acquisition by a larger player in the cloud... Read More

May 15, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold modest losses amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade three points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei -0.8%, China’s Shanghai Composite -1.1%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.7%. In economic data: Japan’s GDP rose 1.5%... Read More

May 14, 2014

The stock market stumbled on Wednesday with small caps leading the fall as the Russell 2000 (-1.6%) registered its second consecutive decline that placed it back below its 200-day moving average. For its part, the S&P 500 lost 0.5% with five sectors finishing in the red. Equity indices began the... Read More

May 13, 2014

The major averages ended the Tuesday session on a mixed note despite showing early strength. The S&P 500 added less than a point, while the Russell 2000 lost 1.0%. Equity indices began the trading day on an upbeat note even though the April Retail Sales report that was released ahead... Read More

May 12, 2014

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on an upbeat note with small caps leading the advance after showing relative weakness last week. The Russell 2000 surged 2.3%, while the S&P 500 gained 1.0%. Even though the benchmark index posted a slimmer gain than the Russell 2000, it... Read More

May 9, 2014

The stock market finished a choppy week on cautiously optimistic note. The S&P 500 added 0.2% despite spending the bulk of the session in the red. The benchmark index narrowed its week-to-date loss to 0.1%, while the Russell 2000 (+0.9%) trimmed its weekly decline to 1.8%. For its part, the... Read More

May 8, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover within a point of fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended higher. China’s Shanghai Composite +0.3%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.4%, and Japan’s Nikkei +0.9%. In economic data: China’s trade surplus expanded... Read More

May 7, 2014

Equity indices finished the Wednesday session on a mixed note as high-growth names weighed on the Russell 2000 (+0.1%) and the Nasdaq (-0.3%), while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) and S&P 500 (+0.6%) outperformed thanks to strength in blue chip listings. The stock market opened the trading day with... Read More

May 6, 2014

Equity indices finished the Tuesday session on their lows after spending the entire day in negative territory. The S&P 500 tumbled 0.9% with nine sectors registering losses, while the Russell 2000 fell 1.6%, settling below its 200-day moving average for the first time since November 2012. Stocks were pressured from... Read More

May 5, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade near their lows amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover eight points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. China’s Shanghai Composite +0.1%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -1.3%, and Japan’s Nikkei was closed for Children’s Day. In economic data: br... Read More

May 2, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat week on a cautious note as the major averages settled near their flat lines. The S&P 500 (-0.1%) shed less than three points, while the Russell 2000 (+0.1%) outperformed slightly. Interestingly, the bulk of today’s trading activity took place before 11:00 ET, while the... Read More

May 1, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed, while most global markets are closed for Labor Day. The S&P 500 futures hover right below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei advanced 1.3%, while China’s Shanghai Composite and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng were closed. In economic data: China’s... Read More

April 30, 2014

Equity indices spent some time on either side of their respective flat lines on Wednesday, but when the dust settled, they ended with modest gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all added 0.3%, with the Dow registering a new record closing high at 16,580.84, which represented... Read More

April 29, 2014

The stock market rallied on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 (+0.5%) posting its second consecutive gain as eight sectors ended in the green. Momentum names, meanwhile, rebounded from yesterday’s relative weakness, which allowed the Nasdaq Composite (+0.7%) to finish ahead of the benchmark index. Equity indices began the session on... Read More

April 28, 2014

The stock market began the new week on a mixed note despite showing early strength. Weakness among small-cap names resulted in the underperformance of the Russell 2000 (-0.6%) and the Nasdaq Composite (-0.03%), while the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.3%. Equity indices climbed out of the gate, emboldened by... Read More

April 25, 2014

The major averages spent the last session of the week in a steady retreat despite receiving a round of better than expected earnings from the technology sector. The Nasdaq lost 1.8%, widening its April decline to 2.9%, while the S&P 500 fell 0.8%, swinging to a month-to-date loss to 0.5%.... Read More

April 24, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold gains, with the Nasdaq futures (+1.6%) outperforming thanks to an earnings beat from the top index component, Apple (AAPL 566.27, +41.52), which sports a pre-market gain of 8.1%. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite -0.5%, and... Read More

April 23, 2014

The stock market finished the Wednesday session on a modestly lower note, but it is worth mentioning today’s retreat took place after six consecutive gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) and S&P 500 (-0.2%) settled not far below their flat lines, while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.8%) lagged throughout the... Read More

April 22, 2014

Equity indices strung together a daylong rally on Tuesday, giving the S&P 500 its sixth consecutive advance. Some selling during the final hour of action pressured the indices from their highs, but they still ended with the bulk of their gains. The benchmark index added 0.4% with eight sectors finishing... Read More

April 21, 2014

U.S equity futures show a slightly positive bias coming off last week’s striking turnaround rally. Trading activity was fairly subdued in Asia and major European bourses remain closed following the Easter holiday. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei -0.03%, China’s Shanghai Composite -1.5%, and South... Read More

April 17, 2014

The stock market ended the holiday-shortened week on a mixed note as the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 0.1%, while the S&P 500 added 0.1% with seven sectors posting gains. Equity indices faced an uphill climb from the opening bell after disappointing quarterly results from Google (GOOG 536.10, -20.44)... Read More

April 16, 2014

The stock market finished the Wednesday session on an upbeat note with the Nasdaq (+1.3%) ending in the lead. The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.1% with all ten sectors posting gains. The benchmark index spent the entire trading day in the green, rallying to new highs during the last... Read More

April 15, 2014

The major averages finished the session on a modestly higher note, but not before heavy selling pressure sent the Nasdaq Composite (+0.3%) for a test of its 200-day moving average. The S&P 500, meanwhile, added 0.7% with all ten sectors posting gains. Equities climbed at the open with the advance... Read More

April 14, 2014

U.S. equity futures display modest gains despite cautious action in Europe, where the major regional indices hold losses following an escalation of tensions in Ukraine. Over the weekend, Ukraine’s army exchanged gunfire with pro-Russian militants attempting to seize government buildings in the country’s Southeast region. The S&P 500 futures hover... Read More

April 11, 2014

The stock market finished the week on a broadly lower note with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 enduring their worst week since 2012. The Nasdaq Composite fell 1.3%, ending the week with a loss of 3.1%. For its part, the S&P 500 settled lower by 1.0% to end the week... Read More

April 10, 2014

The major averages spent the Thursday session in a daylong retreat that placed the Nasdaq (-3.1%) below its 100-day moving average, while the S&P 500 (-2.1%) finished below its 50-day average. The Dow Jones Industrial Average held up a bit better, but the price-weighted index posted a sharp loss (-1.6%)... Read More

April 9, 2014

The stock market finished the Wednesday session on a sharply higher note, with the Nasdaq Composite (+1.7%) in the lead. Equity indices held solid gains into the afternoon, with a second push coming after the release of the FOMC Minutes from the March policy meeting. For the most part,... Read More

April 8, 2014

The major averages halted their three-day losing streak with a modest bounce that sent the Nasdaq Composite higher by 0.8%. The S&P 500, meanwhile, added 0.4% with seven sectors posting gains. Equity indices exhibited some volatility during the opening hour before setting off on a climb to new session highs.... Read More

April 7, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on the defensive, with the major averages posting losses across the board. The Russell 2000 (-1.5%) and Nasdaq (-1.2%) led the retreat, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.0%) and S&P 500 (-1.1%) fared a bit better. The major averages started the... Read More

April 4, 2014

The stock market finished the week on a lower note after equity indices spent the entire session in a steady decline from their opening highs. The Nasdaq led the retreat, falling 2.6%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-1.0%) and S&P 500 (-1.3%) registered smaller losses. Even though the major... Read More

April 3, 2014

The stock market finished the Thursday session on a lower note with small caps leading the weakness. The Russell 2000 (-1.0%) and Nasdaq (-0.9%) posted comparable losses while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (unch) and S&P 500 (-0.1%) finished little changed after climbing off their lows during the last hour... Read More

April 2, 2014

The stock market meandered inside a narrow range on Wednesday after posting solid gains on Monday and Tuesday. The S&P 500 added 0.3% and notched a fresh record closing high at 1890.90 while the Nasdaq (+0.2%) struggled to stay in the green throughout the session. Equity indices began the day... Read More

April 1, 2014

The stock market kicked off April on an upbeat note with the Nasdaq Composite (+1.6%) leading the charge. The S&P 500 (+0.7%) settled at a fresh record high of 1885.52 with eight sectors registering gains while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.5%) lagged. In the absence of notable pre-market data... Read More

March 31, 2014

The stock market closed out a volatile month of March on an upbeat note with small caps leading the advance. The Russell 2000 gained 1.8% while the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.8% with nine sectors ending in the green. The benchmark index was able to eke out a 0.7%... Read More

March 28, 2014

The stock market finished a cautious week on a modestly higher note, but kept only a portion of its opening gain. The S&P 500 added 0.5%, trimming its weekly loss to 0.5%, while the Nasdaq Composite added 0.1%, finishing the week with a 2.8% decline. Emboldened by stimulus talk during... Read More

March 27, 2014

The stock market finished the Thursday session on a lower note with the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (-0.5%) trailing the other indices once again. The Nasdaq widened its week-to-date loss to 3.6% while the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.2%, extending its weekly decline to 0.9%. Equity indices began the trading... Read More

March 26, 2014

The major averages finished the Wednesday session on a cautious note with the S&P 500 falling 0.7%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.6%) outperformed while small caps bore the brunt of the pressure. The Russell 2000 declined 1.9% while the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.4%. Equity indices began the day on... Read More

March 25, 2014

The major indices strung together some modest gains on Tuesday on the back of some strong showings from blue-chip issues and a volatile rebound effort by the beaten-down biotechnology stocks. The move followed on the heels of a strong outing by major European bourses, which shot up largely in response... Read More

March 24, 2014

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on a cautious note with the Nasdaq leading the retreat. The tech-heavy index lost 1.2% while the S&P 500 fell 0.5% with eight sectors ending in the red. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.2%) held up relatively well.br... Read More

March 21, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs amid upbeat action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade nearly six points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended higher. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +1.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite +2.7%, and Japan’s Nikkei was closed was Spring Equinox Day. Economic... Read More

March 20, 2014

U.S. equity futures hold modest losses amid cautious action overseas. The S&P 500 futures trade five point below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended lower across the board. China’s Shanghai Composite -1.4%, Japan’s Nikkei -1.7%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -1.8%. Economic data was... Read More

March 19, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid quiet action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover less than a point above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a mixed note. Japan’s Nikkei +0.4%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.1%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.2%. Participants... Read More

March 18, 2014

The major averages finished the Tuesday session with solid gains, but outside of a few pockets of considerable relative strength, most sectors could be classified as reluctant participants in the daylong rally. Small caps led the way with the Russell 2000 climbing 1.5% while the S&P 500 advanced 0.7% with... Read More

March 17, 2014

Today at 4:40 PM All of the fear and loathing last week about the Sunday referendum in Crimea was set aside today. Stock markets in Europe and the US rallied, not because there was a de-escalation of the standoff in Ukraine, but because there has yet to be an... Read More

March 13, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid subdued action overseas. The S&P 500 futures hover three points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.7%, Japan’s Nikkei -0.1%, and China’s Shanghai Composite +1.1%. Economic data was plentiful: China’s Retail Sales rose... Read More

March 12, 2014

The major averages ended the Wednesday session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq (+0.4%) and Russell 2000 (+0.3%) posted modest gains while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) finished in the red. For its part, the S&P 500 (+0.03%) settled just above its flat line. Stocks began the day in... Read More

March 11, 2014

The major averages finished the Tuesday session near their lows with the Russell 2000 (-1.0%) leading the slide. The S&P 500 lost 0.5% with nine sectors ending in the red. Equities indices started the day with modest gains and spent the first two hours of action in the neighborhood of... Read More

March 10, 2014

The major averages began the new trading week on a slightly lower note with small caps leading the weakness. The Russell 2000 shed 0.3% while the S&P 500 slipped less than a point with six sectors ending in the red. Equity indices began the day in negative territory with only... Read More

March 7, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat week on a mixed note. The S&P 500 added just under a point, holding its weekly gain at 1.0% while the Nasdaq lost 0.4%. The major averages began the day on an upbeat note, but relinquished their opening gains during the first 90 minutes... Read More

March 6, 2014

The stock market ended the Thursday session on a mixed note ahead of Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report for February (Briefing.com consensus 163K). The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.4%) and S&P 500 (+0.2%) posted modest gains while the Nasdaq Composite (-0.1%) lagged throughout the session. Equities began the trading day on an... Read More

March 5, 2014

U.S. equity futures trade little changed amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures hover two points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.3%, China’s Shanghai Composite -0.9%, and Japan’s Nikkei +1.2%. Economic data was limited: China’s HSBC Services... Read More

March 4, 2014

Equity indices enjoyed a broad-based rally on Tuesday that sent the S&P 500 (+1.5%) and the Russell 2000 (+2.7%) to new closing record highs. Stocks surged out the gate after index futures received a considerable bid around 1:00AM ET. The overnight strength came about after it was reported that Russian President... Read More

March 3, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on a defensive note after tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalated over the weekend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.9%) paced the decline while the S&P 500 lost 0.8% with all ten sectors ending in the red. Over the weekend, Russian... Read More

February 28, 2014

The stock market finished an upbeat week on a mixed note amid the return of concerns about the immediate future of Ukraine. The S&P 500 added 0.3% after holding a solid 0.6% gain through the bulk of the trading day. The Nasdaq Composite and Russell 2000 lagged, falling 0.3% and... Read More

February 27, 2014

Equity indices finished the Thursday session on an upbeat note with the S&P 500 settling above its 2013 closing high of 1848.36 after three unsuccessful attempts. Stocks climbed throughout the session despite starting the day on a cautious note. The early weakness could be traced to European markets, which were pressured... Read More

February 26, 2014

U.S. equity futures display modest pre-market gains despite cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade six points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. China’s Shanghai Composite +0.4%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.5%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.5%. In economic data: br... Read More

February 26, 2014

U.S. Equities ·Equity futures point to solid gains at the open ·The S&P 500 failed to post a record-high close for the second straight day despite threatening the mark for most of the day ·The Nasdaq looks likely to open at its best level in nearly 15 years ·MBA Mortgage Apps sank... Read More

February 25, 2014

The stock market spun its wheels during the Tuesday session, ending essentially where it started. The S&P 500 shed 0.1% after spending the bulk of day within a striking distance of its flat line. Equity indices tried to build on the relative strength of the two consumer sectors, but the... Read More

February 24, 2014

The stock market kicked off the new trading week on an upbeat note, sending the S&P 500 (+0.6%) to a fresh nominal intraday record high of 1858.71. Despite the rally, selling during the final hour kept the benchmark index from finishing the session above its 2013 closing high of 1848.36.br... Read More

February 21, 2014

The major averages finished the mixed week on a lower note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 both shed 0.2% while the Nasdaq slipped 0.1%. For the week, the Dow and S&P 500 posted respective losses of 0.3% and 0.1% while the Nasdaq added 0.5%. In some ways,... Read More

February 20, 2014

Equities ended the Thursday session on their highs with small caps in the lead. The Russell 2000 gained 1.1% while the S&P 500 rose 0.6% with all ten sectors posting gains. Prior to the open, the market appeared to be headed for a lower start as disappointing data from... Read More

February 19, 2014

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market lows amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade seven points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.3%, China’s Shanghai Composite +1.1%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.5%. In economic data: Japan’s All Industries... Read More

February 18, 2014

Equity indices kicked off the abbreviated trading week on a relatively quiet note. Small caps finished in the lead (Russell 2000 +1.0%) while the S&P 500 added 0.1%. The benchmark index saw a brief dip at the open, but the weakness was erased promptly thanks to the early strength of... Read More

February 14, 2014

The stock market ended an upbeat week on a positive note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.8%) paced the advance while the S&P 500 gained 0.5%. The Nasdaq (+0.1%) lagged, but was able to finish at its highest level since late 2000. Today’s advance capped an impressive week during which... Read More

February 13, 2014

The stock market rallied steadily throughout the trading day despite starting the session on a lower note. Small caps led the way with the Russell 2000 climbing 1.3% while the S&P 500 advanced 0.6%. The benchmark index was down as much as 0.6% at the start of the session after... Read More

February 12, 2014

Equity indices took a bit of a breather on Wednesday after the S&P 500 surged nearly 4.5% in the six sessions since February 3. The benchmark index shed less than a point while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.2%. Overall, the session was very quiet as the key averages... Read More

February 11, 2014

The stock market rallied steadily throughout the Tuesday session with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.2%) providing the lead. Thanks to the advance, the Dow narrowed its 2014 loss to 3.5% while the Nasdaq (+1.0%) was able to swing from a loss to a year-to-date gain of 0.4%. The S&P... Read More

February 10, 2014

The stock market began the new trading week on a subdued note. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 posted gains between 0.1% and 0.5% with the Nasdaq Composite ending in the lead. Overall, the session had a ‘wait-and-see’ feel as many participants stuck to the sidelines ahead... Read More

February 7, 2014

The major averages finished a shaky week on an upbeat note. The Nasdaq led the way, climbing 1.7% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 added 1.1% and 1.3%, respectively. Thanks to the broad rally, the indices managed to register weekly gains between 0.5% and 0.8% but small... Read More

February 6, 2014

The stock market enjoyed a broad-based rebound on Thursday that placed the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+1.2%) back above its 200-day moving average (15483). The S&P 500 also gained 1.2%, ending just north of its 100-day average (1772) after flirting with that level during the afternoon. Stocks began on an... Read More

February 5, 2014

Today at 4:53 PM Equities ended the Wednesday session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq and S&P 500 finished with respective losses of 0.5% and 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended flat. Despite its outperformance, the Dow was unable to settle above its 200-day moving average (15479)... Read More

February 4, 2014

After enduring a broad-based selloff on Monday, the stock market rebounded, erasing roughly a third of yesterday’s losses. The Nasdaq led the way, rising 0.9% while the S&P 500 gained 0.8%. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.5%, but was unable to reclaim its 200-day moving average... Read More

February 3, 2014

The stock market began February on a sharply lower note after enduring a rough month of January. Small caps paced the Monday retreat as the Russell 2000 tumbled 3.1% while the S&P 500 fell 2.3%. For its part, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.1%, ending below its 200-day moving... Read More

January 31, 2014

The stock market ended a disappointing month on a lower note as the S&P 500 lost 0.7%, extending its January decline to 3.6%. The Nasdaq outperformed, falling 0.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.0%. Equities began the session sharply lower but a day-long rebound helped the major averages... Read More

January 30, 2014

The major averages finished the Thursday session near their highs as the volatile week continued. The Nasdaq surged 1.8% while the S&P 500 gained 1.1% as all ten sectors ended in the green. As a result of the advance, the S&P 500 will enter Friday’s session with a slim week-to-date... Read More

January 29, 2014

Equities ended broadly lower with small caps leading the weakness. The Russell 2000 lost 1.5% while the S&P 500 fell 1.0% as nine of ten sectors finished in the red. Although today’s session generated plenty of excitement, some of the events that played out over the course of the day... Read More

January 28, 2014

The stock market halted its three-day slide on Tuesday as the S&P 500 gained 0.6%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (+0.4%) also finished in the green, but couldn’t keep pace with the S&P 500 as Apple (AAPL 506.50, -44.00) weighed following its quarterly report. Although the largest tech company beat on... Read More

January 27, 2014

U.S. equity futures display modest gains despite cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade four points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended lower across the board. China’s Shanghai Composite -1.0%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -2.1%, and Japan’s Nikkei -2.5%. Economic data was limited: Japan’s... Read More

January 24, 2014

Equities endured a rough end to the abbreviated week with the S&P 500 seeing its largest weekly loss since June 2012. The benchmark index fell 2.1%, extending its January decline to 3.1%. The market spent the entire session in a steady slide amid continued concerns regarding China. Furthermore, participants kept... Read More

January 23, 2014

The S&P 500 snapped its modest two-day win streak with its second-largest decline of the month. The index lost 0.9% as nine of ten sectors registered losses. Although stocks sold off throughout the day, the weakness actually started during the overnight futures session when three China-related developments began fueling the... Read More

January 22, 2014

Equities endured an uninspiring Wednesday session, which unfolded in similar fashion to Tuesday’s affair. Like yesterday, the major averages ended mixed with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.3%) coming out on the losing end while the Nasdaq (+0.4%) and S&P 500 (+0.1%) eked out modest gains. The price-weighted Dow spent... Read More

January 21, 2014

The major averages began the abbreviated week on a mixed note as the Nasdaq added 0.7% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 0.3%. For its part, the S&P 500 rose 0.3% as eight of ten sectors finished in the green. Stocks began the day with solid gains but the... Read More

January 17, 2014

The S&P futures are up four points, which leaves them roughly in-line with fair value on this options expiration day. The indication follows a spate of earnings results from widely-held companies and a positive disposition seen currently in most European markets. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets were mostly weak, although... Read More

January 16, 2014

Equities finished the Thursday session on a mixed note as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.4%) and S&P 500 (-0.1%) settled in the red while the Nasdaq posted a slight gain of 0.1%. The stock market began the day on the defensive after two influential sectors, consumer discretionary (-0.5%)... Read More

January 15, 2014

Equities built on their Tuesday gains, turning in their best two-day stretch since mid-December. During that two-day swing, the S&P 500 jumped from its lowest level of the year to a fresh record close of 1848.38. Stocks spent the entire session in positive territory after receiving an opening boost from... Read More

January 13, 2014

The stock market endured a forgettable start to the new trading week as the major averages ended on their lows. The S&P 500 fell 1.3%, ending at its lowest level of 2014. Equities began the session with modest losses and spent the first three hours of action near their flat... Read More

January 10, 2014

The major averages ended the first full week of 2014 on a mixed note. The S&P 500 added 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed less than 0.1%. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.6% while the Dow slipped 0.2%. Prior to the open, it was reported that... Read More

January 9, 2014

The major averages ended today’s choppy session on a mixed note. The S&P 500 added less than a point while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (-0.1%) and Nasdaq (-0.2%) posted modest losses. Equities displayed early strength, but sellers were quick to knock the indices off their opening highs. The Nasdaq... Read More

January 8, 2014

UThe major averages ended the Wednesday session on a mixed note as the Nasdaq added 0.3%, the Dow shed 0.4% while the S&P 500 essentially split the difference, ending flat. Equity indices began the session on a lower note, but the Nasdaq and S&P 500 staged swift rallies to new... Read More

January 7, 2014

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.6%, notching its first advance of 2014. Despite today’s gain, the index remains lower by 0.6% through the first four sessions of the year. The benchmark index notched its high during the initial 90 minutes before spending the remainder of the session in a... Read More

January 6, 2014

Despite staging an afternoon rally, the S&P 500 was unable to log its first gain of 2014. The benchmark index registered its third consecutive loss, shedding 0.3% as six of ten sectors finished in the red. Equities began the day on a modestly higher note, but the early gains evaporated... Read More

January 3, 2014

The major averages wrapped up the week on a mixed note as the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2% while the Nasdaq shed 0.3%. For its part, the S&P 500 ended flat. Today’s mixed finish was an appropriate reflection of a session that featured some mixed signals. On that note,... Read More

January 2, 2014

After gaining nearly 30.0% in 2013, the S&P 500 exhibited a bit of a hangover in its first session of 2014. The benchmark index fell 0.9% as all ten sectors registered losses. Stocks were pressured from the opening bell as cautious action in Europe weighed on the early sentiment. In... Read More

December 31, 2013

The major averages wrapped up a memorable year with a forgettable final session. The S&P 500 added 0.4%, extending its 2013 price return to 29.6%.Given its banner year, it was appropriate for the index to end 2013 at a fresh all-time high of 1848.35. The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared... Read More

December 30, 2013

The S&P 500 ended flat after spending the entire session inside of a four-point range. The quiet trading day did little to upset the S&P 500’s return for the year as the index will enter tomorrow with a 29.1% year-to-date gain. Interestingly, while the S&P 500 was challenged by its... Read More

December 27, 2013

The major averages did little to distinguish themselves in the final session of the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 both ended flat while the Nasdaq underperformed, shedding 0.3%. Today’s trading range was limited to just five points in the S&P 500, but that masks the fact... Read More

December 26, 2013

Not much stood in the way of the major averages on Thursday as they continued their year-end rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.8%) logged its sixth consecutive gain while the S&P 500 (+0.5%) posted its fourth advance in a row. However, both ended the session at fresh record highs.br... Read More

December 24, 2013

Twas the night before Christmas so few joined the fray The lack of concerted leadership did its part, keeping both buyers and sellers at bay. The volume was light and trading ranges were tight In fact, the New York Stock Exchange had less than 300 million shares in its holiday... Read More

December 23, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs. The S&P 500 futures trade ten points above fair value. Also of note, Nasdaq futures trade 32 points above fair value as Apple (AAPL 568.38, +19.36) provides support after the company entered into a multi-year iPhone agreement with China Mobile (span... Read More

December 20, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold modest gains amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade less than one point above fair value. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +0.1%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.3%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -2.0%. Economic data was limited: The Bank of... Read More

December 18, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold modest gains with the S&P 500 futures trading less than two points above fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +2.0%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.3%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.1%. Investors received several economic data points: China’s House Prices rose 9.9%... Read More

December 17, 2013

Equities spent the bulk of today’s session in the red, but afternoon buying interest helped the major averages end just below their respective flat lines. The S&P 500 shed 0.3% as eight of ten sectors registered losses. Meanwhile, the Dow (-0.1%) traded ahead of its peers all session long as... Read More

December 16, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.6%, snapping its four-day losing streak. Despite today’s gain, the benchmark index remains lower by 1.1% in December. The bulk of today’s advance occurred shortly after the open as the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 notched their highs during the initial 30 minutes. Small-caps... Read More

December 13, 2013

The stock market experienced a flat finish to an otherwise-forgettable week. The S&P 500 shed less than one point, maintaining its December loss of 1.7%. Small-caps outperformed as the Russell 2000 gained 0.4%, but the index remains lower by 3.1% this month. Equities registered opening gains, but the early strength... Read More

December 12, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade modestly lower amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures hover roughly two points below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended lower. China’s Shanghai Composite -0.1%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.5%, and Japan’s Nikkei -1.1%. In regional economic data: Japan’s weekly foreign bonds buying... Read More

December 11, 2013

Equity indices settled on their lows following a steady, session-long slide. Similar to yesterday, small-caps paced the retreat as the Russell 2000 fell 1.6%, extending its December loss to 3.6%. The S&P 500 settled lower by 1.1%, widening its month-to-date decline to 1.3%. There was no specific news catalyst behind... Read More

December 10, 2013

The major averages spent the entire session in a steady downtrend, but despite persistent selling pressure, today’s losses were limited in scope. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq shed between 0.2% and 0.3% while the Russell 2000 lagged, falling 0.9%. The underperformance of the Russell 2000 was likely owed in... Read More

December 9, 2013

There wasn’t a lot of excitement in the stock market today and there is nothing wrong with that. After rallying in broad-based fashion on Friday, the major indices stood their ground (for the most part) amid a lack of conviction from buyers and sellers alike. Today wasn’t a case so... Read More

December 6, 2013

U.S. equity futures are exhibiting a bullish bias ahead of the November employment report at 08:30 a.m. ET. The S&P futures are currently trading 0.4% above fair value, positioning the cash market for a noticeably higher start. Given the market-moving potential of the employment report, however, the current indication... Read More

December 5, 2013

U.S. equity futures are little changed ahead of a barrage of economic data that includes the initial claims and second estimate for Q3 GDP reports at 8:30 a.m. ET. Both the ECB and the Bank of England left their key lending rates unchanged at 0.25% and 0.50%,... Read More

December 4, 2013

The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, registering its fourth consecutive decline. Today’s session proved to be a bit of a roller coaster ride for stocks as the S&P 500 opened in the red, rallied into positive territory, fell to fresh lows, and regained the bulk of its losses into the close.... Read More

December 3, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their lows amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade lower by 0.3%. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.5%, Japan’s Nikkei +0.6%, and China’s Shanghai Composite +0.7%. Investors received a fair share of data: Japan’s monetary base rose... Read More

December 2, 2013

Equity indices finished the holiday-shortened session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq stayed true to a theme that has held throughout the week, finishing ahead of its peers. The tech-heavy index advanced 0.4%, extending its week-to-date gain to 1.7%. The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, but still managed to secure its... Read More

November 29, 2013

Equity indices finished the holiday-shortened session on a mixed note. The Nasdaq stayed true to a theme that has held throughout the week, finishing ahead of its peers. The tech-heavy index advanced 0.4%, extending its week-to-date gain to 1.7%. The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, but still managed to secure its... Read More

November 27, 2013

Equity indices posted modest gains with the Nasdaq (+0.7%) setting the pace for a second consecutive day. The tech-heavy index climbed steadily throughout the session, extending its week-to-date advance to 1.3%. The Nasdaq received support from many of its top components as Apple (AAPL 545.96, +12.56), Oracle (ORCL... Read More

November 26, 2013

The S&P 500 added less than a point while the Nasdaq outperformed with a gain of 0.6%. Stocks saw a brief dip during the opening hour, but the relative strength of the tech-heavy Nasdaq was enough to encourage the S&P 500’s deliberate, day-long climb. Similar to yesterday, a final-hour sell... Read More

November 21, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.8%, snapping its three-day losing streak. The tech-heavy Nasdaq outperformed with an advance of 1.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) registered its first close above the 16,000 level. Stocks climbed throughout the session with the Nasdaq bolstered by some of its recent... Read More

November 20, 2013

The S&P 500 futures trade one point below fair value amid cautious overseas action. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a mixed note. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite +0.6%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.3%. In regional economic data: Japan’s trade deficit widened to JPY1.09 trillion... Read More

November 19, 2013

Equities posted modest losses, ending near their lows, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq shedding 0.4% to pace the decline. The S&P 500 slipped 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average edged down 0.1%. Stocks displayed some strength during the opening hour as an early bid catapulted the Dow above the 16,000... Read More

November 18, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs amid generally upbeat overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade higher by one point above fair value. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended mostly higher. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +2.7%, China’s Shanghai Composite +2.9%, and Japan’s Nikkei settled flat while USDJPY slipped... Read More

November 15, 2013

Equities registered modest gains as the S&P 500 added 0.4%, registering its sixth consecutive weekly gain. The benchmark index spent the bulk of today’s quiet session inside of a four-point range until the now-familiar final-hour rally sent the index to a fresh nominal record high of 1798.18. The Dow Jones... Read More

November 14, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.5%, extending this week’s advance to 1.1%. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq underperformed with a gain of 0.2% as Cisco Systems (CSCO 21.36, -2.63) weighed on the tech-heavy index. Shares of Cisco plunged 11.0% after the company reported below-consensus top-line results and said it expects second quarter... Read More

November 13, 2013

The major averages settled on their best levels of the session despite showing some early weakness. The S&P 500 rose 0.4% while the Nasdaq outperformed with an advance of 0.7%. Stocks began the session in the red as cautious action in Europe contributed to the lower open. Although European indices... Read More

November 12, 2013

The S&P 500 shed 0.2% after spending the entire session in negative territory. The index sold off steadily through the first four hours of action, but managed to regain most of its losses by the close. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq ended flat as the relative strength of technology (+0.3%) underpinned the... Read More

November 11, 2013

The S&P 500 added just over a point (+1.28) after spending the entire session inside of a five-point range. Excluding the first 30 minutes of action, the benchmark index was confined to a two-point range as many participants elected to sit today’s session out. With the bond market closed for... Read More

November 8, 2013

U.S. equity futures have slipped from their highs, but the S&P 500 futures continue to hover just above their flat line. Some additional volatility is expected around 8:30 ET when the October nonfarm payrolls report crosses the wires. The Briefing.com consensus expects the reading to come in at 100,000 while... Read More

November 7, 2013

The major averages ended on their lows after opening gains turned into broad-based losses. The S&P 500 fell 1.3% while the Nasdaq underperformed with a decline of 1.9%. Prior to the open, the European Central Bank cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 0.25% after recent data... Read More

November 6, 2013

The major averages registered broad gains at the open, but only the Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.8%) and S&P 500 (+0.4%) were able to end in positive territory while the Nasdaq (-0.2%) and Russell 2000 (-0.4%) posted modest losses. The Dow finished at a fresh record high of 15,746.63 as... Read More

November 5, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their lows amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures trade lower by 0.3%. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a mixed note. Japan’s Nikkei +0.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite +0.4%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.7%. In regional economic data: China’s HSBC... Read More

November 4, 2013

The major averages kicked off the new trading week with modest gains as the S&P 500 added 0.4%. The Russell 2000 (+1.1%) outperformed, but its relative strength came after the small cap index struggled to keep pace with the last week’s advance in the broader market. Outside of the notable... Read More

November 1, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold modest pre-market gains with the S&P 500 futures trading higher by 0.2%. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite +0.4%, and Japan’s Nikkei -0.9% as the yen endured a volatile session. USDJPY fell below 98.00 before climbing back above... Read More

October 31, 2013

Happy Halloween! U.S. equity futures sport modest losses with the S&P 500 futures trading just below fair value. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended lower. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.4%, China’s Shanghai Composite -0.9%, and Japan’s Nikkei -1.2%. In regional economic data: The Bank of Japan maintained its key interest rate... Read More

October 30, 2013

The S&P 500 registered its first decline in five sessions, losing 0.5%. Small caps faced additional selling pressure as the Russell 2000 fell 1.4%. Stocks held modest losses into the afternoon, but slid to fresh lows after the Federal Reserve released its latest policy directive, which was little changed from prior... Read More

October 29, 2013

The S&P 500 registered its fourth consecutive advance, climbing 0.6% to extend its October gain to 5.4%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (+0.7%) outperformed the benchmark index while the Nasdaq (+0.3%) lagged after starting the session in-line with the S&P. The tech-heavy Nasdaq posted a modest advance of 0.3% after... Read More

October 28, 2013

The S&P 500 punctuated an uneventful session with a modest gain, adding 0.1% to extend its October advance to 4.8%. Stocks alternated between gains and losses through the first two hours of action before the S&P climbed to a fresh record high of 1764.99. Final-hour selling cut the S&P’s gain in... Read More

October 25, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade modestly higher. The Nasdaq futures lead with an advance of 0.8% versus fair value as shares of Amazon.com (AMZN 358.75, +26.54) contribute to the early strength. The online retail giant holds a pre-market gain of 8.0% after reporting top- and bottom-line results ahead of analyst... Read More

October 24, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold modest gains with the S&P 500 futures up 0.3%. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei +0.4%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.7%, and China’s Shanghai Composite -0.9%. In regional economic data: China’s HSBC Manufacturing PMI rose to 50.9 from 50.2 (50.5 expected).br... Read More

October 23, 2013

The major averages posted losses across the board as the Nasdaq (-0.7%) led to the downside. Stocks slumped at the open as cautious-sounding headlines from China combined with continued weakness among momentum names conspired to keep equities in the red throughout the session. Reports out of the Middle Kingdom suggested the largest... Read More

October 21, 2013

The major averages finished today’s uneventful session near their flat lines as the S&P 500 ended flat while the Nasdaq added 0.2%. The outperformance of the Nasdaq resulted from the relative strength of the technology sector (+0.5%), which was the leading cyclical group of the session. Top component, Apple (AAPL... Read More

October 18, 2013

The S&P 500 registered its third consecutive gain, rising 0.7% to extend its weekly advance to 2.4%. However, the Nasdaq (+1.3%) was today’s standout as Google (GOOG 1011.41, +122.61) made a significant contribution to the relative strength of the tech-heavy index. Shares of Google surged 13.8% after the company... Read More

October 17, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover in the red with the S&P 500 futures off 0.1%. Meanwhile, Dow futures trade lower by 0.4% as Goldman Sachs (GS 158.31, -3.94) and IBM (IBM 173.28, -13.35) weigh. The two top-weighted index components reported bottom-line beats, but both reported significant revenue misses. Goldman... Read More

October 16, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.4% with participants rushing into equities as Washington lawmakers appeared to be on the verge of striking a deal that would fund the government through January 15 while extending the debt ceiling until February 7, and maintaining the sequester. Stocks registered opening gains after it... Read More

October 15, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade modestly lower with the S&P 500 futures off 0.1%. Overnight, Senators Reid and McConnell continued working on a deal to avoid breaching the debt ceiling and putting an end to the partial government shutdown. Although a final agreement is not yet in place, reports from Washington... Read More

October 14, 2013

Once again, equity indices posted modest gains even as the agreement to end the partial government shutdown and extend the debt ceiling remained elusive. The S&P 500 added 0.4%, extending its year-to-date gain to 19.9%. Stocks slumped at the open after the weekend ended without any concrete progress in Washington.... Read More

October 11, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.6% to extend its weekly gain to 0.8%. The Nasdaq outperformed with an advance of 0.8%, but finished the week with a loss of 0.4%. Stocks climbed amid morning reports indicating a new proposal has been put forth by Republicans that would end the government shutdown... Read More

October 10, 2013

The S&P 500 jumped 2.2%, turning its October loss into a gain of 0.7%. The Nasdaq outperformed, advancing 2.3%, but the tech-heavy index remains lower by 0.3% for the month. Equities registered the bulk of their gains at the open amid indications the budget stalemate may be getting a bit closer... Read More

October 9, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.1%, but was unable to regain its 100-day moving average (1,662) after flirting with that level throughout the afternoon. The tech-heavy Nasdaq underperformed throughout the session, sliding 0.5%. Equities began the session with slim gains amid reports President Obama was set to nominate Janet Yellen as the... Read More

October 8, 2013

It was day eight of the partial government shutdown and it was day two this week in which the major indices fell victim to broad-based selling interest. Once again, the budget/debt ceiling impasse in Washington was largely to blame. The Nasdaq Composite was the biggest loser today, sliding 2.0% on the... Read More

October 7, 2013

It was a poor start to the week for the equity market and the same thing could be said for politics in Washington. The two were inextricably linked today as stock market participants were put off by some revelations from House Speaker Boehner over the weekend that made it sound... Read More

October 4, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold modest gains with the S&P 500 futures up 0.2%. Reviewing overnight developments: In Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.3%, Japan’s Nikkei -0.9%, and China’s Shanghai Composite was closed for Golden Week. Regional economic data was limited: The Bank of Japan maintained its policy stance, leaving its... Read More

October 3, 2013

The S&P 500 fell 0.9% as the government shutdown continued for the third day without any strong indications a resolution to the stalemate may be on the horizon. Even though stocks appeared largely unconcerned during the first two days of the shutdown, today’s session featured a reminder from the Treasury,... Read More

October 2, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their lows with the S&P 500 futures down 0.5% as the government shutdown enters its second day. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended mixed. Japan’s Nikkei -2.2%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng +0.6%, and China’s Shanghai Composite remained closed for the Golden Week. In regional economic data:... Read More

October 1, 2013

The S&P 500 kicked off the fourth quarter on an upbeat note, climbing 0.8%. Stocks made the bulk of their advance during the opening 90 minutes before spending most of the afternoon near their highs. Late afternoon trade saw some profit-taking, but a final-minute surge sent the indices back to... Read More

September 30, 2013

The S&P 500 fell 0.6% in the final session of the third quarter, trimming its quarterly advance to 4.7%. Stocks stumbled out of the gate as political uncertainty in Washington and Italy caused participants to reduce their risk exposure. In Washington, the federal government is on track to shut down at midnight... Read More

September 27, 2013

Equities ended the week on a lower note with the S&P 500 shedding 0.4%. The index widened its loss for the week to 1.1% as participants exhibited caution ahead of the weekend given the uncertainty associated with the ongoing budget showdown. Earlier today, the Senate passed a funding bill that would... Read More

September 26, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.4%, snapping its five-day losing streak that saw the index surrender almost 2.0%. Although the benchmark average settled in the green, it was unable to maintain all of its early gain or register a close above the 1,700 level. In general, some of today’s price action resembled... Read More

September 25, 2013

The S&P 500 shed 0.3%, extending its losing streak to five sessions. Including today’s decline, the benchmark index has surrendered 1.9% since last Thursday. Stocks endured a sloppy session as the S&P made two unsuccessful attempts at holding the 1,700 level. After opening just above its flat line, the S&P 500... Read More

September 24, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.3%, registering its fourth consecutive loss. Small caps outperformed the benchmark average as the Russell 2000 added 0.2%. Stocks slipped during the opening hour in reaction to a below-consensus consumer confidence report for September. Gains in the stock market were unable to thwart pessimism in... Read More

September 23, 2013

The major averages began the week on a lower note as the S&P 500 shed 0.5%. Stocks spent the first half of the session in a steady retreat, but managed to regain a portion of their losses during afternoon action. Seven of ten sectors finished in the red while technology (+0.3%),... Read More

September 20, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.7%, but managed to end the week with a solid gain of 1.3%. The major indices spent the entire session in a steady retreat off their opening levels with industrials and materials leading to the downside. Sellers remained in control throughout the day amid divisive... Read More

September 19, 2013

Equity futures point to modest gains at the open as the bulls look for follow through buying after yesterday’s foray into record territory. However, current levels may prove problematic, at least for the near-term, as trade tests trendline resistance that dates back to November 2008. Data out this morning was... Read More

September 18, 2013

U.S. futures suggest little change at the open as traders await today’s highly anticipated FOMC decision. Most participants believe an announcement of Fed tapering is a foregone conclusion, but are unsure as to the size and whether or not it will occur in Treasuries, MBS, or both. Yesterday’s... Read More

September 17, 2013

There wasn’t much to be said about the trading action in the stock market on Tuesday because there wasn’t a whole lot of trading action. Volume at the NYSE totaled a piddly 577 mln shares versus an average of 661 mln shares. The light volume reflected a wait-and-see mindset... Read More

September 16, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.6% after a pair of weekend headlines provided an opening boost to equities. Stocks began the session sharply higher after Larry Summers, who was thought to be the hawkish frontrunner, withdrew his name from consideration to be the next chairman of the Federal Reserve. In addition, news... Read More

September 13, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.3% to extend its weekly gain to 2.0%. Today’s session was very quiet as participants displayed tepid demand for equities ahead of next week’s highly-anticipated FOMC meeting where a tapering announcement may occur. Excluding a brief dip during the opening hour, the major averages were confined... Read More

September 12, 2013

The S&P 500 registered its first September decline, shedding 0.3% as nine of ten sectors ended in the red. After posting gains in each of the past seven sessions, several of this month’s top performers fell victim to some profit-taking. Financials, industrials, and materials led to the downside with losses ranging... Read More

September 11, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their lows despite generally upbeat overseas trade. The S&P 500 futures are lower by 0.1% while Nasdaq futures trade down 0.4% as Apple (AAPL 476.80, -17.84) weighs. The largest tech stock trades lower by 3.6% after the company’s product refresh event did not reveal... Read More

September 10, 2013

The S&P 500 climbed 0.7% as all ten sectors settled in positive territory. Stocks registered the bulk of their gains during the opening hour after upbeat economic data from China combined with Syria’s agreement to put its chemical weapons under international control lured participants into equities. In addition to sparking a risk... Read More

September 9, 2013

Equity futures points to slim gains at the open as the S&P 500 looks for its seventh gain in the past eight sessions. Friday’s session was bookended by the 50- (1665) and 100-day (1642) moving averages so traders will be watching those levels closely. It was a sea of green across... Read More

September 6, 2013

The S&P 500 eked out the slimmest of gains (+0.09 point) to register its fourth consecutive advance, maintaining its September advance at 1.4%. Prior to the opening bell, it was reported that August nonfarm payrolls increased by 169,000, which was below the 177,000 expected by the Briefing.com consensus. Private payrolls... Read More

September 4, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.8%, regaining its 100-day moving average (1640/1641) shortly after the open. The Dow and S&P started the session by chopping around their respective flat lines before the two indices began tracking the Nasdaq, which outperformed with a gain of 1.0%. This morning, reports from Fox... Read More

September 3, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.4% after intraday weakness pressured the benchmark index below its 100-day moving average. Equities displayed broad strength at the open after global indices rallied yesterday while U.S. markets were closed for Labor Day. The early gains did not hold past the initial two hours as late-morning... Read More

August 30, 2013

The major averages ended August on a lower note as the S&P 500 shed 0.3% while the Nasdaq fell 0.8%. Small caps endured a rough session with the Russell 2000 falling 1.6%. With the Labor Day weekend ahead and the likelihood of military action in Syria also looming, participation was very... Read More

August 29, 2013

The S&P 500 added 0.2% as eight of ten sectors posted gains. The session kicked off on a lower note, but still managed to finish in positive territory despite an afternoon stumble. Prior to the open, investors received the news that second quarter GDP was revised up to 2.5% from... Read More

August 28, 2013

Equity futures suggest a flat open as bulls look to end the modest two-day skid. Yesterday’s weakness dropped the S&P 500 below its its 100-day moving average (1638), and bulls will surely look to retake that level over the next couple of days. However, the potential conflict with Syria poses... Read More

August 27, 2013

The major averages settled on their lows after broad-based selling persisted throughout the session. Sellers were in control, reacting to the increased likelihood of U.S. military involvement in Syria. In addition, investors exhibited caution amid news indicating the debt ceiling will be reached in mid-October and that Congress has yet to... Read More

August 26, 2013

Equities ended on their lows as the S&P 500 shed 0.4% while the Nasdaq settled flat. The major averages held modest gains into the final hour of the session when comments from Secretary of State John Kerry regarding the situation in Syria contributed to broad-based selling. Mr. Kerry said additional information... Read More

August 23, 2013

U.S. equity futures hold slim gains with the S&P 500 futures up 0.1%. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a mixed note. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng -0.2%, China’s Shanghai Composite -0.5%, and Japan’s Nikkei +2.2% as USDJPY climbed to test the 99.00 level. Economic data was limited to just... Read More

August 22, 2013

The major averages registered gains across the board, but a three-hour halt of all Nasdaq-listed issues prevented normal trading from taking place throughout the afternoon. Stocks climbed out of the gate after upbeat survey data from China and the eurozone reassured investors. China’s HSBC Manufacturing PMI jumped to 50.1... Read More

August 20, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.4% to snap its streak of four consecutive losses. Small caps outperformed as the Russell 2000 rose 1.5% after registering five declines in a row. Unaffected by another round of losses across emerging markets, stocks climbed at the open, but gains were limited as the... Read More

August 19, 2013

Today marked the beginning of a new week for the stock market, yet the story played out much the same way it did last week. Long-term rates continued to rise, the stock market continued to sink, and trading volume remained light. The major averages were mixed and little changed for much... Read More

August 16, 2013

The stock market fluttered on Friday, trying to bounce back from Thursday’s drubbing while at the same time contending with a further rise in the 10-yr note yield, which hit 2.86% at its highest level of the day. The latter got in the way of rebound efforts as the major... Read More

August 15, 2013

Equity futures point to a heavy open as last night’s disappointing guidance from CSCO weighed early, and this morning’s data ignited another wavwe of selling. The downbeat guidance from CSCO casts a shadow on on the prospects of a pickup in the second half of the year, and... Read More

August 14, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.5% after broad-based selling persisted throughout the session. Equities were confined to a downtrend from the open, and even the news of the first expansionary eurozone GDP reading in 18 months could not spark a bid. Nine of ten sectors registered losses while technology posted... Read More

August 13, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.3% despite enduring some early weakness. Stocks slipped out of the gate after this morning’s Treasury selloff in reaction to July retail sales suggested the market believes the report strengthened the case for the Fed to start scaling back its asset purchases at the September... Read More

August 12, 2013

Equities ended today’s quiet session on a mixed note as the S&P 500 shed 0.1% while the Nasdaq added 0.3%. Stocks began in the red after Japan’s second quarter GDP report (0.6% actual, 0.9% forecast) missed expectations. Another piece of news out of Asia indicated the People’s Bank of China... Read More

August 9, 2013

The major averages ended a down week on a lower note as the S&P 500 shed 0.4% to widen this week’s loss to 1.1%. Shortly after opening in the red, the benchmark index briefly turned positive, but just like yesterday, it was unable to make a sustained move above the... Read More

August 8, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.4% despite enduring a first-hour selloff. Equities began the session with modest gains after upbeat data from China helped ease some concerns regarding the pace of global growth. The Middle Kingdom reported an increase in exports (+5.1% actual, +3.0% expected) and imports (+10.9% actual, +2.1%... Read More

August 7, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.4% to register its third consecutive decline. The benchmark index fell to its lows during the first hour of action before spending the remainder of the session in a slow climb. Stocks sold off at the open after Asian indices endured a downbeat session with... Read More

August 6, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.6% as all ten sectors registered losses. Stocks slipped out of the gate after today’s better-than-expected economic data was unable to spark an opening bid. The June trade deficit narrowed to $34.2 billion from May’s downwardly revised $44.1 billion (from $45.0 billion). That was the smallest... Read More

August 5, 2013

The S&P 500 ended today’s quiet session modestly lower with eight of ten sectors settling in the red. Stocks slipped out of the gate after better-than-expected economic data from China and Great Britain was unable to spark an early bid. In China, the Non-Manufacturing PMI rose to 54.1 from... Read More

August 2, 2013

The S&P 500 ended today’s session with a modest gain of 0.2% after spending the entire day in a slow climb off its opening lows. The opening slip took place as investors reacted to a weaker-than-expected July jobs report. Nonfarm payrolls added 162,000 jobs after adding a downwardly revised 188,000... Read More

August 1, 2013

The major averages settled near their highs as better-than-expected Manufacturing PMI data out of China (50.3 actual, 49.9 expected), the eurozone (50.3 actual, 50.1 expected), and the U.S. (53.7 actual, 53.1 expected) helped entice investors into bidding up global equities. The S&P 500 jumped above 1,700, a level the... Read More

July 31, 2013

The S&P 500 settled flat after being unable to clear the 1,700 level, which has presented stern resistance over the past few sessions. Stocks held slim gains into the afternoon when the latest policy directive from the Federal Open Market Committee sent the Nasdaq and S&P 500 to fresh highs.... Read More

July 30, 2013

The S&P 500 ended little changed while the Nasdaq advanced 0.5%. The S&P notched its high at the open before spending the rest of the session in a steady retreat. The selling intensified during afternoon action, sending the S&P into the red as participants displayed caution ahead of tomorrow’s advance... Read More

July 29, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.4% as seven of ten sectors registered losses. Equities began the session in negative territory after the third consecutive decline in Japan’s Nikkei contributed to the cautious sentiment. With few earnings of note and no market-moving economic data, the session proved to be relatively... Read More

July 26, 2013

It was a tough start to the day, but an otherwise smooth end as the major indices overcame large losses early to end the session little changed but in positive territory. A 3% decline in the Nikkei set the tone for a negative beginning, as did a series of mixed earnings... Read More

July 24, 2013

U.S. equity futures are trading higher again this morning, with positive responses to earnings reports helping the tone. AAPL headlined last night’s earnings, and the stock is +4.2% as earnings and revenue/margin guidance surpassed low expectations. This is helping Nasdaq futures (+1.0%) outperform the broader market (S&P futures... Read More

July 23, 2013

The major averages ended in mixed fashion as the Dow Jones added 0.1% and the S&P 500 shed 0.2%. The Dow outperformed the broader market as the relative strength of United Technologies (UTX 105.16, +3.05) provided the price-weighted index with enough support to keep it in positive territory throughout the... Read More

July 22, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session with modest gains. The Dow added less than two points while the S&P 500 rose 0.2% to mark its twelfth advance in thirteen sessions. Last week, the first round of second quarter earnings brought a fair share of top line misses. This week started on... Read More

July 19, 2013

Today’s session featured disappointing earnings from technology heavyweights, Google (GOOG 896.60, -14.08) and Microsoft (MSFT 31.40, -4.04), but that could have gone unnoticed if someone were to only focus on the performance of the S&P 500, which ended with a slim gain of 0.2%, notching a new record... Read More

July 18, 2013

The S&P 500 settled with a gain of 0.5% after notching a fresh intraday record high of 1693.13. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq underperformed, ending unchanged. Equities climbed at the open and received an additional boost after the July Philadelphia Fed Index, which is a survey of regional manufacturing conditions, spiked... Read More

July 17, 2013

U.S. equity futures are little changed after climbing out of the red. The S&P 500 futures are holding their flat line. Market participants are anticipating today’s testimony by Ben Bernanke in front of the House Financial Services Committee. Mr. Bernanke’s prepared remarks are set to be released at 8:30 ET... Read More

July 16, 2013

The S&P 500 ended lower by 0.4% to snap its streak of eight consecutive gains. Today’s decline marked only the third time this month where the S&P registered a loss, and first with a decline of more than one point. Heavily-weighted sectors, including financials and health care, pressured the broader market... Read More

July 15, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.1% to mark its eight consecutive advance. The utilities sector ended atop today’s leaderboard with a gain of 1.6%, but the relative strength of three influential sectors (financials, industrials, and technology) helped the S&P end at a fresh record high of 1682.50, less than... Read More

July 12, 2013

The major averages registered gains after a final hour rally pushed the S&P 500 and Nasdaq to their highs. For its part, the Dow ended flat. Quarterly earnings were in focus this morning after JPMorgan Chase (JPM 54.97, -0.17) and Wells Fargo (WFC 42.63, +0.74) announced their results.... Read More

July 11, 2013

The major averages saw gains between 1.1% and 1.6% with the Dow Jones and S&P 500 closing at fresh record highs. Equities registered the bulk of their advance at the open after yesterday’s comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke created some push back against the idea the Fed may begin... Read More

July 10, 2013

The major averages ended in mixed fashion as the Dow shed 0.1% while the Nasdaq added 0.5%. For its part, the S&P 500 ended flat. Equities held their levels into the afternoon as market participants awaited the Minutes from the June 18/19 meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee. Most notably,... Read More

July 9, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.7% after seeing steady buying over the course of the session. Growth-oriented groups paced today’s advance even after the International Monetary Fund cut its 2013 global growth outlook to 3.1% from 3.3%. The materials sector gained 1.6% as steelmakers and gold miners outperformed. The Market... Read More

July 8, 2013

U.S. equity futures are continuing higher this morning, with S&P futures +8 following a mixed performance overseas. The Asian session started off strong, but a couple of uninspiring Chinese growth outlooks turned sentiment negative in the region. First, the Securities Journal thinks Q2 GDP could come in around +7.5%,... Read More

July 5, 2013

The major averages entered the weekend on a positive note. The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.0% as nine of ten sectors posted gains. Equities opened in the green after the June nonfarm payrolls report handily beat expectations (195K actual, 166K Briefing.com consensus). However, the details of the report took some... Read More

July 3, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade in the red with the S&P 500 futures down 0.5%. The overnight weakness follows developments in Portugal where two key government figures (finance minister and foreign minister) have submitted their resignations. In addition, reports indicate two more ministers (agriculture and social security) are set to resign.... Read More

July 2, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.1% after recovering a portion of its losses into the close. Equities saw little change at the start of today’s session after index futures surrendered their pre-market gains just ahead of the opening bell. The decline in futures coincided with euro weakness after reports indicated... Read More

July 1, 2013

The S&P 500 advanced 0.5% to begin the third quarter on an upbeat note. Although the S&P registered a solid gain, the index closed almost 12 points below its session high after being rejected by its 20- and 50-day moving averages. Stocks climbed at the open, taking a cue from gains... Read More

June 28, 2013

Stocks concluded their down week on a lower note as the S&P 500 shed 0.4%. Equities slipped out of the gate amid weakness in Treasuries. The 10-yr note sold off into the cash session open before erasing most of its losses. The benchmark 10-yr yield ended higher by two basis points... Read More

June 27, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market highs with the S&P 500 futures up 0.5%. Reviewing overseas developments: Asian markets ended on a mixed note. China’s Shanghai Composite shed 0.1% while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng added 0.5%, and Japan’s Nikkei jumped 3.0%. In regional economic data: Japan continued to be a net seller of... Read More

June 26, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.0% as all ten sectors registered gains. Equities began the session on an upbeat note despite today’s disappointing economic news, which indicated first quarter GDP growth was revised down with the third estimate to 1.8% from 2.4%. Typically, revisions to GDP in the... Read More

June 25, 2013

Equities settled near their highs, but came up a bit short in their attempt to erase yesterday’s losses. The S&P 500 climbed 1.0% as all ten sectors ended with gains. The majority of today’s advance occurred in the first 90 minutes of the session amid a global rebound. Notably, China’s Shanghai... Read More

June 24, 2013

The stock market began the week on a fitful note as rising interest rates at home and falling equity markets abroad conspired to keep the major averages in negative territory throughout today’s trading. The focal points on those fronts were the 10-yr note yield, which spiked to 2.66% in early... Read More

June 21, 2013

Stocks End Down Week on a Mixed Note The major averages ended on a mixed note as the S&P 500 added 0.3% while Nasdaq shed 0.2%. Technology stocks lagged from the opening bell with Oracle (ORCL 30.14, -3.07) contributing to the underperformance. Shares of the software company fell 9.3%... Read More

June 14, 2013

The major averages ended in the red after early gains evaporated during the opening hour amid a confluence of factors. Yesterday, the S&P 500 bounced off its 50-day moving average, but today’s session saw the index get rejected by its 20-day average in the 1642 area. In addition, two heavily-weighted... Read More

June 13, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade with modest losses amid cautious overseas action. The S&P 500 futures are lower by 0.2%. Reviewing overnight developments: Asian markets ended broadly lower. Japan’s Nikkei fell 6.4%, China’s Shanghai Composite tumbled 2.7%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng lost 2.2%. In regional economic data: Japan continued to be a net seller... Read More

June 12, 2013

Equity futures point to strong gains at the open as the bulls look to recover yesterday’s losses. Overnight, Japan’s Nikkei (-0.2%) slipped back below the 13,000 mark before regaining the bulk of its losses amid a volatile session. Elsewhere, Australia’s ASX (-0.7%) slipped into correction territory for the first... Read More

June 11, 2013

U.S. equity futures hover near their pre-market lows amid downbeat overseas trade. The S&P 500 futures trade lower by 0.9% with the overnight weakness coming after the conclusion of the Bank of Japan’s most recent policy meeting where the central bank elected to keep its policy stance unchanged. Investors reacted... Read More

June 10, 2013

Unlike Friday, the stock market didn’t provide a lot of trading excitement today. The major indices spent time on either side of the unchanged mark, but were never able to achieve a good deal of separation either way as buyers and sellers alike lacked conviction. There was some initial excitement when... Read More

June 7, 2013

Equity indices entered the weekend on an upbeat note as the S&P 500 settled higher by 1.3%, ending just three points below its 20-day moving average. Stocks spent the bulk of today’s session near their highs after receiving a pre-market boost from the nonfarm payrolls report. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 175,000 jobs... Read More

June 6, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.9% despite having to endure early weakness. The benchmark average spent the first half of today’s session attempting to climb above yesterday’s afternoon highs. However, the index was unable to clear those levels as its fourth attempt was followed by a steep slide to session... Read More

June 5, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 1.4% after steady selling persisted throughout the session. Today’s loss came on the heels of yesterday’s weakness and the continued decline caused the benchmark average to slide more than 2.0% below Tuesday’s high. All ten sectors ended in the red as declining issues outpaced advancers by... Read More

June 4, 2013

The major averages ended with modest losses as the S&P 500 shed 0.6%. Equities opened the session on an upbeat note as the Dow Jones Industrial Average appeared poised for its 21st consecutive Tuesday of gains. However, that changed midway through the trading day when the major averages dipped into the... Read More

June 3, 2013

The major averages registered modest gains with the Dow Jones Industrial Average leading the way, adding 0.8%. The Nasdaq eked out a gain of 0.2% while the S&P 500 climbed 0.5%. After showing little change in the opening minutes of today’s session, the three indices jumped to their highs in the... Read More

May 31, 2013

The major averages ended on their lows as afternoon selling caused the S&P 500 to settle lower by 1.4%. Equities saw losses in the opening minutes of the session as cautious overseas action kept buyers at bay. Contributing to the overseas softness was chatter questioning the strength of tonight’s manufacturing span... Read More

May 30, 2013

The major averages settled with modest gains as late afternoon selling took hold following a headline from Nikkei news, indicating Japan plans to impose new foreign exchange margin trading rules. The news caused dollar/yen to slip into the red while also weighing on equities. Six of ten sectors ended in the... Read More

May 29, 2013

The major averages settled with modest losses as the S&P 500 shed 0.7%. Equities slipped out of the gate as sellers drove the major averages to their lows 90 minutes into the session. This marked the return of bargain hunters, who helped the S&P return to its opening levels. However, the... Read More

May 28, 2013

The major averages ended with solid gains as the Dow Jones Industrial Average logged its 20th consecutive advance on a Tuesday. Equities surged out of the gate, but the early enthusiasm faded an hour into the session when the major averages notched their highs, and began their retreat towards Friday’s closing... Read More

May 24, 2013

Stocks entered the weekend on a mixed note as the S&P 500 shed 0.1% while the Dow ended with a gain of 0.1%. The major averages began the day on a lower note as nine of ten sectors saw losses of more than 0.5%. The consumer staples sector... Read More

May 23, 2013

The major averages ended modestly lower with the S&P 500 shedding 0.3%. The benchmark average saw an opening loss of 1.2% after Japan’s Nikkei tumbled 7.3%. Japanese stocks sold off amid continued volatility in Japanese Government Bond futures as the 10-yr yield spiked almost 16 basis points to 1.002 before... Read More

May 22, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.8% after early strength turned into afternoon weakness. Today’s headline event came in the form of Ben Bernanke’s testimony before the Joint Economic Committee. During his remarks, Chairman Bernanke said premature tightening of monetary policy could stall the pace of recovery. This followed weeks of... Read More

May 21, 2013

Stocks ended modestly higher as the S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, and the Dow added 0.4% to register its 19th consecutive Tuesday of gains. The major averages saw little change during morning action, but afternoon buying interest helped lift the indices to session highs. Most cyclical sectors (with the exception of materials... Read More

May 20, 2013

The Russell 2000 crossed the 1,000 level for the first time ever today and the S&P 500 established a new all-time, intraday high. Those were some of the more memorable highlights of what was an otherwise nondescript day of trading. By and large, there just wasn’t a lot of conviction on... Read More

May 17, 2013

The S&P 500 ended this week with a bang, roaring to a new all-time high on the back of stronger-than-expected economic data, influential leadership, and an ongoing appreciation for the Fed’s monetary policy support. The bullish bias was evident in premarket action as the S&P futures pointed to a higher... Read More

May 16, 2013

The major averages settled in the red as the S&P 500 lost 0.5% while Nasdaq shed 0.2%. The three indices hovered near their respective flat lines for the majority of the day before sellers emerged in the afternoon, and drove equities to their first loss in five days. Nine of ten sectors... Read More

May 15, 2013

The major averages settled with modest gains despite an afternoon stumble. The S&P 500 climbed 0.5% to bring its week-to-date gain to 1.5%. Equities opened in the red as domestic and foreign economic data reminded investors of a cloudy growth picture. However, the opening strength of defensive sectors quickly overshadowed the... Read More

May 14, 2013

The major averages ended near their highs as the S&P 500 rose 1.0%. Prior to the open, equity futures suggested slim losses at the start of the session. However, futures climbed off their lows as fund manager David Tepper shared his bullish viewpoint during a morning appearance on CNBC. When the... Read More

May 13, 2013

Equities ended the day little changed as the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 0.2% while the Nasdaq added 0.1%. The S&P 500, for its part, ended flat. Stocks registered losses at the open as Thursday’s afternoon rumor turned into a Friday evening headline. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Federal... Read More

May 10, 2013

After enduring a choppy session, the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.4% to end the week with a gain of 1.2%. The Nasdaq outperformed the benchmark average throughout the day as the tech-heavy index advanced 0.8%. The outperformance of the Nasdaq was largely due to the relative strength of biotech as... Read More

May 9, 2013

U.S. equity futures trade lower amid cautious overseas trade. The S&P 500 futures are off by 0.1%. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended with modest losses as Hong Kong’s Hang Seng shed 0.1%, China’s Shanghai Composite declined 0.6%, and Japan’s Nikkei lost 0.7%. In regional economic data: The Bank of Korea cut its... Read More

May 8, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.4% to register its fifth consecutive gain. That streak appeared to be in jeopardy when stocks began the session on a lower note. However, the three-point slip at the open was enough to entice bargain hunters who sent the benchmark average to a fresh record... Read More

May 7, 2013

Equities settled with modest gains as the S&P 500 rose 0.5% to close at a new all-time high while the Dow notched its first close above 15,000. Similar to yesterday, earnings shaped the early price action in the absence of notable economic data. The energy sector charged out of the gate as... Read More

May 6, 2013

The major averages ended on a mixed note as the S&P 500 rose 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average shed five points. With no economic news of note and two major foreign markets closed (Japan and the United Kingdom), investors reacted to quarterly earnings. The now-familiar pattern of anemic top-line growth... Read More

May 3, 2013

The major averages registered strong gains as the April jobs report boosted stocks at the open. The S&P 500 jumped 1.0% and notched a fresh record close at 1,614.40 while the Dow added 0.9% after peeking above 15,000 in morning action. On the surface, the employment report for April looked... Read More

May 2, 2013

Stocks surged as the S&P 500 erased all of yesterday’s losses. The benchmark average rose 0.9% while the Nasdaq outperformed with a gain of 1.3%. In addition to earnings reaction, investors welcomed further easing from the European Central Bank as the ECB cut its key interest rate by 25 basis... Read More

May 1, 2013

Equities ended today’s session on their lows as global growth concerns reemerged. The three major indices all lost 0.9%, but the underperformance of small cap stocks was notable as the Russell 2000 slid 2.5%. Although most markets across the globe were closed in observance of Labor Day, some countries continued reporting... Read More

April 30, 2013

Equities ended today’s session on a modestly higher note as the Nasdaq rose 0.7% and the S&P 500 added 0.3%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, for its part, tacked on 0.1%. The major averages spent the day climbing off their lows after it was revealed that manufacturing activity in the Chicago... Read More

April 29, 2013

Today proved to be a one-sided affair as equities climbed throughout the session. As a result, the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.7% to notch a fresh record close while the Nasdaq rose 0.9%. The Nasdaq displayed relative strength from the onset as technology stocks paced today’s advance. Major sector components... Read More

April 26, 2013

The major averages entered the weekend on a mixed note as the S&P 500 slipped 0.2% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.1%. The final session of the week began on a cautious note as downbeat overseas trade and mixed corporate earnings pressured equity futures. In addition, a disappointing first... Read More

April 25, 2013

Equity futures point to solid gains at the open as global equity markets continue their advance. The market seems to be able to shrug off a growing number of revenue misses as top line numbers are still coming in ahead of expectations. Economic data out this morning showed both initial... Read More

April 24, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session on a mixed note. The Dow shed 0.3% while Nasdaq and S&P 500 ended flat. Defensively-oriented groups were among the leaders of the first-quarter market rally. Today, however, three defensive sectors finished firmly lower after top-line results from major components failed to justify the considerable... Read More

April 23, 2013

Equities settled with strong gains as the S&P 500 climbed 1.0%. Although stocks ended near their highs, an afternoon headline from a hacked Twitter account of the Associated Press suggested two explosions occurred at the White House, sending the S&P lower by 15 points and back to its flat line before... Read More

April 22, 2013

The S&P 500 ended higher by 0.5% despite enduring some intraday weakness while the Dow added 0.1%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq gained 0.9%. Technology stocks led from the start with Microsoft (MSFT 30.83, +1.06) providing considerable support after ValueAct announced a $2 billion stake in the software company. Other tech... Read More

April 19, 2013

The major averages entered the weekend on a mixed note. The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.9% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended with a slim gain of 0.1%. The 30-stock Dow trailed behind the broader market as General Electric (GE 21.75, -0.92), McDonald’s (MCD 99.92, -1.99), and International... Read More

April 18, 2013

The major averages followed yesterday’s decline with another round of selling. The S&P 500 shed 0.7% while Nasdaq lost 1.2%. Interestingly, the S&P 500 closed below its 50-day average for the first time this year. The Nasdaq underperformed as technology stocks displayed broad weakness. The largest tech stock, Apple (AAPL... Read More

April 17, 2013

After yesterday’s session saw the S&P 500 log its second-largest one-day advance of the year, today’s action was dictated by the sellers. The S&P fell 1.4% as all ten sectors ended in the red. There was no single catalyst responsible for today’s decline. Instead, persistent global growth concerns coupled with rumors... Read More

April 16, 2013

Equities climbed steadily throughout the day, and the S&P 500 ended higher by 1.4%. For the most part, today’s session served as a rebound from yesterday’s broad-based selling. All ten economic sectors settled in the black, and nine groups ended with gains of at least 1.0%. The materials sector, which lost nearly... Read More

April 15, 2013

Equities sold off steadily throughout today’s session, and the S&P 500 ended lower by 2.3%. The major averages were pressured from the opening bell as global growth concerns returned to the forefront. In China, first quarter GDP rose 7.7%, which was below the expected growth of 8.0%. The disappointing report... Read More

April 12, 2013

After logging four consecutive gains, the S&P 500 entered the weekend on a lower note. The benchmark average shed 0.3% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended flat. Equities ended lower as two economically-sensitive sectors pressured the broader market. The notable underperformance of energy and materials was largely due to the... Read More

April 11, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.4% after spending the bulk of today’s action in the black while the tech-heavy Nasdaq ended flat. The technology sector was under pressure after the International Data Corporation indicated first-quarter PC shipments plunged 14%. This marked the largest decline on record since IDC began... Read More

April 10, 2013

After alternating between gains and losses for 14 straight sessions, the S&P 500 has pulled a hat trick this week. It has now scored gains in every session this week and, boy, the third time was a charm. The market rallied sharply, bolstered by its confidence in the support of... Read More

April 9, 2013

Stocks settled just off their best levels of the session with the S&P 500 gaining 0.4%. After opening on a higher note, equities alternated between gains and losses until afternoon action sent the major indices to their highs. As a result, the Dow Jones Industrial Average notched a new record high... Read More

April 8, 2013

Equities spent the bulk of today’s session in negative territory before afternoon buying lifted the major averages out of the red. As a result, the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.6%. Although stocks finished with gains, leadership was mixed, suggesting a certain level of indecision was present among market participants. Both... Read More

April 5, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session with modest losses. The S&P 500 shed 0.4% while the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.7%. The bulk of today’s selling occurred at the open as three points of concern sent investors in search of safety. Headlines from Asia indicated North Korea has not toned down its... Read More

April 5, 2013

April 5, 2013 The major averages ended today’s session with modest losses. The S&P 500 shed 0.4% while the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.7%. The bulk of today’s selling occurred at the open as three points of concern sent investors in search of safety. Headlines from Asia indicated North Korea has... Read More

April 4, 2013

U.S. equity futures have slid off their highs and the S&P 500 futures are now flat. The major Asian bourses ended mostly lower as a flare-up in tensions with North Korea offset the Bank of Japan’s increase to its bond buying scheme. Yesterday, the United States announced it was moving a... Read More

April 4, 2013

Equities began the day on a mixed note with the S&P 500 climbing out of the gate while Nasdaq slipped into the red, where it spent the majority of today’s session. Although the S&P saw early gains, the index notched its highs within the opening minutes, before sliding into negative territory.... Read More

April 2, 2013

Equities spent the bulk of today’s session near their highs before a late afternoon stumble dropped the S&P 500 back near the middle of its range. As a result, the benchmark average finished higher by 0.5%. Notably, the Russell 2000, which tracks small cap stocks, ended lower by 0.5% after losing... Read More

April 1, 2013

The major averages ended near their lows, and the S&P 500 lost 0.5%. With European markets shuttered for Easter Monday, equities saw little change at the start of today’s session. However, that changed quickly once the March ISM Index was reported below expectations. The Index was reported at 51.3, which... Read More

March 28, 2013

The major averages ended the last session of the holiday-shortened week with slim gains. The S&P 500 added 0.4%, and notched its highest close of all-time, eclipsing the previous record close set on October 9, 2007. The day began on a rather uneventful note, but the flat open was followed by... Read More

March 27, 2013

The major averages ended the day on a mixed note. The S&P 500 ended lower by 0.1% while Nasdaq added 0.1%. Although the broader market ended little changed, that did not serve as an accurate portrayal of the day’s developments. The S&P 500 began the session lower by 0.8% as European worries... Read More

March 26, 2013

Equities finished today’s session with firm gains and the S&P 500 settled higher by 0.8%. After starting the day on a positive note, the benchmark average spent the balance of the session in a six-point range. An otherwise quiet session was interrupted by a brief morning stumble when Reuters cited a... Read More

March 25, 2013

The major averages ended today’s headline-filled session with modest losses, and the S&P 500 settled lower by 0.3%. Equities began the day amid broad strength, which brought the benchmark average within a point of a record high close. The morning gains came about after Cyprus and the Eurogroup agreed on... Read More

March 22, 2013

Equity indices finished today’s session firmly higher and the S&P 500 settled with a gain of 0.7%. Stocks began the final session of the week on a positive note with notable strength in consumer stocks. The consumer discretionary sector paced today’s advance from the opening bell after Nike (NKE... Read More

March 21, 2013

Equities finished today’s session near their lows, and the S&P 500 lost 0.8%. The major averages began the day in the red with tech stocks driving the early decline. The technology sector underperformed notably after disappointing earnings and cautious revenue guidance from Oracle (ORCL 32.30, -3.47) contributed to selling... Read More

March 20, 2013

The S&P 500 settled higher by 0.7% after spending the entire session in positive territory. Equities opened firmly higher amid continued speculation over the future of Cyprus as well as the impact of the parliamentary decision to reject eurozone bailout conditions. Quiet trade continued into the afternoon as the S&P... Read More

March 19, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session on a mixed note. The Dow registered a slim gain of 3.76 points while S&P 500 shed 0.2%. Stocks began the day with slim gains, but the early strength lacked conviction as uncertainty continued to surround Cyprus and the terms of its proposed bailout.... Read More

March 18, 2013

The major averages settled firmly lower with the S&P 500 down 0.6%. Equities began the session amid broad losses after the conditions of a Cypriot bailout put the package in jeopardy of being voted down in the country’s parliament. Per the original agreement, Eurozone rescue funds would provide Cyprus with... Read More

March 15, 2013

The major averages finished the week on a lower note and the S&P 500 shed 0.2%. Elsewhere, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.2% and snapped its streak of ten consecutive gains. Equities slipped out of the gate with today’s quadruple witching providing additional volume at the start. The lower... Read More

March 14, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session with modest gains. The S&P 500 advanced 0.6%, and settled within two points of a record close. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average registered its 10th consecutive gain. After the previous three sessions adhered to the script of early weakness resulting in steady dip buying,... Read More

March 13, 2013

U.S. equity futures are modestly lower amid downbeat overseas trade. The S&P 500 futures are off by 0.2%. Looking at overnight developments: Asian markets ended on a lower note. Japan’s Nikkei shed 0.6%, China’s Shanghai lost 1.0%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng ended lower by 1.5%. Regional economic data was limited: New Zealand’s span... Read More

March 12, 2013

The major averages finished today’s session on a mixed note. The Dow registered a slightly higher close while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended in the red. With today’s lower close, the S&P 500 has snapped its streak of seven consecutive winning sessions. After starting the day on a lower note,... Read More

March 11, 2013

Equities finished today’s quiet session near their highs and the S&P 500 gained 0.3%. Including today’s advance, the S&P 500 is now less than 10 points away from its highest close of all-time. The major averages began the day with slim losses. The cautious early trade followed downbeat overseas action... Read More

March 8, 2013

The major averages ended the final session of the week with modest gains. The day started on an upbeat note after February nonfarm payrolls were reported well ahead of expectations. However, the opening strength did not hold and the S&P 500 promptly slid back to yesterday’s closing level. After returning... Read More

March 7, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session on a positive note. After spending the day in a narrow range, the Nasdaq settled as the top performing index with a gain of 0.3%. In many ways, today’s session mimicked yesterday’s range bound affair with financials and materials settling in the lead. Major... Read More

March 6, 2013

The major averages began today’s session on a positive note, but the initial strength was unable to hold throughout the day. The Dow managed to settle near its highs while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq finished near their lows. The first sign of weakness manifested itself when the Nasdaq turned... Read More

March 5, 2013

Today began with all eyes turned to the Dow Jones Industrial Average after the blue chip index ended yesterday’s session just 37 points below its all-time closing high. However, the anticipation was promptly removed after the bell when equities jumped higher and the Dow marked its fresh all-time best at... Read More

March 4, 2013

The S&P 500 settled with a gain of 0.5% despite spending the majority of the day in negative territory. The first session of the week began amid cautious trade resulting from news out of China where officials announced steps to curtail the rapid rise in the country’s housing prices. The... Read More

March 1, 2013

Stocks finished the first session of the month on a positive note despite showing early weakness. The downbeat start took place as the markets digested disappointing PMI readings from China and the United Kingdom. In China, the country’s manufacturing PMI slipped to 50.1 from the 50.2 reported in... Read More

February 28, 2013

Equities ended February on a negative note as the S&P 500 settled with a slim loss of 0.1%. The key averages saw some morning indecision but late afternoon buying pushed the benchmark index to session highs before the index surrendered its gains. Stocks opened the session amid some initial chop... Read More

February 27, 2013

Today’s session saw an extension of yesterday’s buying as the S&P 500 managed to erase the remainder of its losses from Monday. The broad rally occurred with six of 10 sectors adding in excess of 1.0%. Cyclical stocks led the way with industrials and materials exhibiting relative strength from the... Read More

February 26, 2013

The S&P 500 ended today’s session with a gain of 0.6% despite enduring some early weakness. The benchmark average started the day on a positive note with upbeat economic data proving insufficient in staving off the early selling pressure. However, markets staged a rebound in afternoon trade with the key... Read More

February 25, 2013

Equities endured a broad sell off which saw the S&P 500 drop 1.8%. Bearish sentiment built into the afternoon as the likely deadlock in the Italian general election weighed on markets. Stocks got off to a broadly higher start as early “instant polls” suggested Pier Luigi Bersani, who is a... Read More

February 22, 2013

The S&P 500 gained 0.9% to rebound from its two-day slide which saw the index drop just under 2.0%. However, despite today’s rally, the benchmark average was unable to register a higher close for the week, thus snapping its streak of seven consecutive weekly gains. Stocks began the session on... Read More

February 21, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 0.6% after today’s session saw an extension of yesterday’s selling. Equities began the day in the red and continued sliding into the afternoon when bargain hunters stepped in and lifted the major averages off their lows. The S&P 500 managed to hold the psychologically... Read More

February 20, 2013

The S&P 500 settled lower by 1.2% after spending the entire session in negative territory. Equities began the day on a lower note amid mixed housing data and hovered near their lows ahead of the Fed’s minutes. Stocks then fell to fresh lows after the minutes indicated Committee members saw... Read More

February 19, 2013

At midday, the S&P 500 trades higher by 0.5%. Including today’s gain, the benchmark index has added over 7.0% since the start of the year. The major averages began the holiday-shortened week with an upbeat open assisted in part by a strong German ZEW Economic Sentiment Survey. The key... Read More

February 15, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session on a mixed note. The Dow added 0.1% while S&P 500 shed 0.1% after late-afternoon weakness pressured the index to its lows. Equities saw little change into the final two hours of trade when reports indicated Wal-Mart (WMT 69.30, -1.52) saw a slow... Read More

February 14, 2013

At midday, the S&P 500 is seeing little change after overcoming early weakness. The benchmark index began the session on a lower note after several Eurozone economies reported disappointing fourth quarter GDP readings. France, Germany, Greece, and Italy all saw their economies contract during the final three months of... Read More

February 13, 2013

The major averages finished today’s session on a mixed note despite this morning’s strength. The Dow slipped 0.3%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq eked out gains of 0.1% and 0.3% respectively. The S&P 500 began the day on an upbeat note amid strength in industrials and discretionary shares. The... Read More

February 12, 2013

Equities finished the day on a mixed note. The Dow climbed 0.3% and registered its highest close of the year while the S&P 500 added 0.2%, and Nasdaq shed 0.2%. The day got off to a slow start as the major averages spent the entire morning near their respective unchanged... Read More

February 11, 2013

The S&P 500 ended today’s quiet session with a slim loss of 0.1%. Equities started the day amid mixed European trade where Italian and Spanish stocks trailed behind the remainder of the region. The relative weakness came amid continued political turmoil. In Italy, markets showed caution as Silvio Berlusconi speculated... Read More

February 8, 2013

The S&P 500 punctuated a somewhat volatile week by adding 0.6%. Though the benchmark index ended firmly in the black, the bulk of its advance took place during the initial minutes. After notching a session high in the 1518 area, the index spent the remainder of the day in a... Read More

February 7, 2013

Equities ended the day with slim losses causing the S&P 500 to slip 0.2%. Though stocks saw little change at the outset of the session, sellers were able to take control within the first 30 minutes, and drive the major averages to their respective lows. The early broad-based weakness came... Read More

February 6, 2013

Equities ended little changed after spending the vast majority of today’s session in the red. The major averages began the day on a cautious note as European indices retreated in anticipation of an update from Monte dei Paschi regarding the size of derivative-related losses suffered by the world’s oldest bank.... Read More

February 5, 2013

Today’s session brought resilience to the markets as the key averages recovered the majority of their losses from Monday. The S&P 500 settled higher by 1.0% after spending the duration of the day in a steady climb. The morning sentiment was aided by upbeat European trade where Italian and Spanish... Read More

February 4, 2013

The S&P 500 ended lower by 1.2% after European concerns returned to the forefront. Equities began the day with a broad sell-off as a downbeat European trade weighed. Italian and Spanish indices were the source of continent-wide weakness as controversy continued to plague the troubled sovereigns.In Italy the MIB... Read More

February 1, 2013

Stocks saw broad gains during today’s session and the S&P 500 ended higher by 1.0%. Meanwhile, the Dow climbed 1.1% and settled above 14,000 for the first time since October 2007. The day was busy with economic data, most of which surprised to the upside. Overseas, China’s HSBC manufacturing... Read More

January 31, 2013

The major averages saw little change during the last session of the month. The S&P 500 shed 0.2%, while Nasdaq outperformed and ended flat. Mixed trade unfolded amid economic data which was largely in-line with expectations. Weekly initial claims were reported at 368,000 (Briefing.com consensus 345,000), which supports the notion... Read More

January 30, 2013

Equities began the day on a mixed note, but the slightly bearish bias which persisted throughout the day caused the major averages to end near their lows. The S&P 500 slipped 0.4%, and was the weakest performing index. Shortly before the open, the Bureau of Economic Analysis said fourth quarter... Read More

January 29, 2013

Equities finished today’s session on a mixed note. The Dow and S&P 500 gained 0.5% each, while the Nasdaq underperformed, and ended flat. However, looking below the surface revealed the sector rotation which took place today. The energy space paced today’s advance thanks in part to strong earnings from Valero... Read More

January 28, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session largely where they began. The S&P 500 and Dow registered modest losses, while the Nasdaq added 0.2%, seeing relative outperformance from Apple (AAPL 449.83, +9.95). The largest tech stock ended higher by 2.3% after disappointing earnings caused it to lose nearly 13.0% last... Read More

January 25, 2013

Stocks began the final session of the week on a strong note as upbeat European trade supported U.S. equity futures. The positive sentiment across the old continent resulted from a strong German Ifo Business Climate Index, which beat expectations on both componentsbusiness expectations and the current assessment. Meanwhile, a disappointing... Read More

January 24, 2013

The major averages ended today’s session near their opening levels. The Dow was an exception as the blue chip index finished higher by 0.3%. The 30-stock average outperformed as 19 components registered gains. The Nasdaq trailed the broader market for the duration of the day after a disappointing earnings report... Read More

January 23, 2013

The major averages finished today’s session on a positive note despite early weakness in the S&P 500. Today’s focus centered on earnings as technology heavyweights Google (GOOG 741.50, +38.63) and International Business Machines (IBM 204.72, +8.64) reported fourth quarter results which were received warmly by the market. Both... Read More

January 22, 2013

Equities managed to finish today’s session with slim gains despite a mid-morning stumble. The S&P 500 and Dow were able to overcome the early weakness thanks in part to upbeat earnings from major sector components. The 30-stock Dow Jones led the way as earnings from DuPont (DD 47.82, +0.83), Travelers... Read More

January 18, 2013

Equities began the session on a rather uninspiring note, but managed to climb back into positive territory by day’s end. The key indices got off to a slow start despite China reporting its 2012 GDP growth at 7.9%. While the reading beat expectations, investor optimism was contained to the... Read More

January 17, 2013

The major averages opened today’s session on a strong note after weekly initial claims and housing starts were reported ahead of expectations. Meanwhile, a disappointing Philadelphia Fed Survey was not enough to cool optimism. Key indices spent the duration of the day in a steady upward climb, and the S&P... Read More

January 16, 2013

Major stock market averages started the day on a mixed and uneventful note and that’s pretty much how they traded the rest of the day. There were plenty of storylines, which we will introduce shortly, but there just wasn’t any conviction on the part of buyers or sellers outside of... Read More

January 15, 2013

Equities began the day with a slightly bearish bias after Germany’s 2012 GDP was reported below expectations. Though the news weighed at the open, the major averages showed resilience, and spent the remainder of the session climbing off their lows. As a result, the S&P 500 added 0.1% while... Read More

January 14, 2013

Today’s session began on a lower note after pre-market weakness in Apple (AAPL 501.75, -18.55) weighed on the tech-heavy Nasdaq. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 marked its session low in the 1465 area an hour into the session. The benchmark index then reversed and spent the remainder of the session... Read More

January 11, 2013

The major averages saw little change during today’s session, and the S&P 500 remained at its five-year high. However, equities slipped out of the gate as data out of China indicated the country’s consumer price index rose by 2.5% year-over-year. The news put a damper on expectations for future stimulus... Read More

January 10, 2013

Equities began the day firmly higher before surrendering a portion of their early gains. The S&P 500 marked its session high in the 1469 area during the initial minutes, and followed the upbeat open with a slide back to its flat-line. The index has since returned to the middle of... Read More

January 9, 2013

Stocks began the day on a positive note after Alcoa (AA 9.08, -0.02) kicked off the fourth quarter earnings season with a strong top line result. With no notable economic data, the remainder of the session was largely uneventful as the key indices retreated off their respective highs, ending with... Read More

January 8, 2013

The S&P 500 ended lower by 0.3% after spending the duration of the session in the red. With little economic data of note and below-average volume, the key indices traded in range bound fashion ahead Alcoa’s (AA 9.10, 0.00) earnings report, which will kick-off the fourth quarter earnings season. Consumer... Read More

January 7, 2013

Stocks registered modest losses during today’s quiet session. With no economic data or notable earnings to dictate the tone, the major averages were trapped in a relatively narrow range. The S&P 500 opened in the red, and traded near its opening levels for the duration of the session. As a... Read More

January 4, 2013

The S&P 500 gained 0.5% to punctuate a week which saw the index climb over 4.0%. Today’s advance was notable as it took the benchmark average to its best close since December 2007. The weeklong rally arrived after Washington lawmakers were able to avoid the fiscal cliff by agreeing to... Read More

January 3, 2013

The S&P 500 shed 0.2% after the Federal Reserve released the minutes from its December policy meeting. The markets keyed in on comments from several members who voiced concerns over the duration of the asset purchase program. In addition, some participants “thought that it would probably be appropriate to slow... Read More

January 2, 2013

Equities began the New Year with a robust open after the U.S. Congress approved measures aimed at averting the fiscal cliff. As a result of yesterday’s agreement, individuals making less than $400,000 per year will see an extension of their recent tax rates, while those making over that amount will... Read More

December 31, 2012

Today’s session began on a slightly lower note after the weekend failed to advance the budget negotiations. The talks are now entering the 11th hour, but the likelihood of a timely, comprehensive agreement has become dim. However, recent reports from Washington have indicated the two sides may be nearing a... Read More

December 28, 2012

Stocks spent today’s session in the red as the hope for a timely budget deal becomes more distant. The major averages saw a late-afternoon spike after reports out of Washington indicated President Obama will present a scaled-back budget proposal during his meeting with top lawmakers today. However, shortly after the... Read More

December 27, 2012

The S&P 500 ended the day with minor losses following a volatile session. Equities began the day on a positive note, but comments from Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid caused a quick change in sentiment. Speaking from the Senate floor, Senator Reid said that all signs suggest the country will... Read More

December 26, 2012

Stocks began the day on a positive note, but the early sentiment failed to hold. The key averages slipped to their respective lows during the first two hours of trade, and held there for the remainder of the session. As a result, the benchmark index finished lower by 0.5%. With... Read More

December 24, 2012

The major averages spent today’s abbreviated session in the red as the lack of progress in the budget debate weighed on sentiment. The S&P 500 hovered near its lows for the duration of the day, and the benchmark index lost 0.2% amid low volume. With the holiday break underway, traders... Read More

December 21, 2012

Equities spent the duration of today’s session in the red. The S&P 500 lost 0.9% after House Speaker John Boehner cancelled Thursday’s vote on his ‘Plan B’ due to a lack of support from his party. In a morning press conference, the Speaker said he is not walking away from... Read More

December 20, 2012

The major averages finished higher despite showing indecision in the early part of the session. The fiscal cliff remained the focal point, and investors showed optimism in Washington’s ability to get a deal done. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle continued to exchange jabs, and Speaker Boehner said the... Read More

December 19, 2012

Stocks began the day on a slightly higher note as yesterday’s optimism regarding a fiscal cliff resolution lingered. However, the initial strength quickly faded, and the S&P 500 slipped below its flat line where it spent the remainder of the session. A recurring theme played out in Washington where lawmakers... Read More

December 18, 2012

Stocks registered broad gains during today’s session as comments from Washington lawmakers indicated the budget debate is intensifying. Though an agreement remains elusive, the markets welcomed the developments and spent the duration of the day in an upward climb. As a result, the S&P 500 advanced 1.2%. Apple (AAPL... Read More

December 17, 2012

The major averages registered broad gains during today’s session. The S&P 500 followed a modestly higher open with a steady climb to its highs. Shortly before midday, reports out of Washington indicated President Obama and House Speaker Boehner held a 45-minute conversation in an attempt to further the ongoing budget... Read More

December 14, 2012

Equities spent the day in the red as weakness in shares of Apple (AAPL 509.79, -19.89) weighed on the markets throughout the session. The S&P 500 held near its opening levels until the final hour when selling pressure pushed the benchmark index to a loss of 0.4%. The technology... Read More

December 13, 2012

The major averages began the day on a mixed note before selling pressure pushed the key indices to their respective lows. This morning, House Speaker John Boehner addressed the media in Washington. During his remarks, the speaker suggested President Obama is not serious about cutting spending, and the White House... Read More

December 12, 2012

Equities began the day on a slightly higher note in anticipation of the latest policy statement from the Federal Reserve. The major averages spiked to session highs upon the release of the central bank’s directive. However, stocks surrendered all of their gains, and the S&P 500 finished flat. As expected,... Read More

December 11, 2012

Today’s session was relatively quiet as the major averages followed an upbeat open with a climb to their respective highs. At noon, House Speaker John Boehner said he remains hopeful a budget deal will be reached, but first, Democrats and the President need to outline specific spending cuts. The comments... Read More

December 10, 2012

Equities were little changed during today’s session. With no economic data to digest, investors expressed caution after Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Monti announced plans to submit his resignation upon the successful approval of the country’s budget. However, afternoon reports from the Financial Times indicated Italy’s centrist parties are urging Mr.... Read More

December 7, 2012

Equities started the day in the black following the release of November nonfarm payrolls, which revealed an addition of 146,000 jobs. However, the optimism was short-lived and stocks surrendered their early gains after the preliminary reading of the December Michigan Sentiment fell short of estimates. The remainder of the session... Read More

December 6, 2012

Today’s session opened with initial uncertainty before the major averages staged a climb to their respective highs. Overseas, Standard & Poor’s lowered Greece’s long term credit rating to ‘Select Default’ from ‘CCC.’ Meanwhile, Germany’s DAX closed at its highest level in nearly five years. Domestically, trade was confined... Read More

December 5, 2012

Stocks finished the session on a higher note, but gave up a large portion of their gains in the final half-hour of the session. The major averages showed notable divergence as the Dow led with a gain of 0.6% while Nasdaq lost 0.8%. The tech-heavy index lagged the broader market... Read More

December 4, 2012

Today’s session was confined to a narrow range as the S&P 500 opened near its flat line, and spent the entire day within points of the unchanged level. At midday, Bloomberg TV aired an interview with President Obama, but his remarks were in-line with recent statements. The market did not... Read More

December 3, 2012

Equities began the day on a positive note as an upbeat European trade paved the way for a higher open. However, the strength was short-lived as the S&P 500 marked its session high during the opening minutes, and headed back towards its flat line once the November ISM Index... Read More

November 30, 2012

Equities were on uncertain footing during the first hour of the session. The S&P 500 followed the early indecision by sliding to its lows just above the 1410 level. A familiar theme played out intraday as President Obama and House Speaker Boehner held another round of press conferences. The President... Read More

November 29, 2012

Today’s session started on a positive note. The early gains were built on yesterday’s comments from House Speaker Boehner which indicated he is hopeful a budget deal can be reached. However, the Speaker held another press conference today at which he said no “substantive progress” has been made. The immediate... Read More

November 28, 2012

Equities opened lower, but staged a reversal when top lawmakers reiterated their desire to reach a budget agreement. After marking a session low near its 200-day moving average, the S&P 500 reversed 25 handles to session highs. The reversal was aided by comments from House Speaker Boehner who said he... Read More

November 27, 2012

Equities opened the session on a lower note. The Greek financing agreement between the International Monetary Fund and the Eurozone finance ministers did little to inspire investor confidence. Instead, market participants remain focused on the U.S. as they wait for any hints of progress in the budget debate. After marking... Read More

November 26, 2012

Equities began the week on a cautious note as uncertainty crept back into the markets. Overseas, the Eurogroup continues to discuss the next tranche of Greek aid. Reports from the talks indicate lawmakers remain split over whether or not haircuts should be applied to the outstanding Greek debt. Additionally, elections... Read More

November 23, 2012

Equities began today’s abbreviated session with a bullish bias. The sentiment was maintained into the close as the S&P 500 reached its high during the first hour of trade, and hovered near that area until the close. The markets were unfazed by headlines from overseas which indicated the Eurozone Summit... Read More

November 21, 2012

The S&P 500 endured choppy trade during the first two hours of action. The index followed the early indecision with a run to session highs where it spent the majority of the afternoon. The market received some encouraging news from the Middle East where Israel and Hamas have reached a... Read More

November 20, 2012

The major averages opened the session on a negative note after Moody’s cut the sovereign rating of France to ‘Aa1’ from ‘Aaa.’ The S&P 500 followed the lower open with a steady climb towards its flat line. After making several attempts at breaking through the unchanged mark, the benchmark index... Read More

November 19, 2012

Equities began today’s session amid optimism regarding a potential fiscal cliff compromise. In addition, headlines out of Europe indicated the next tranche of Greek aid will likely come through before December 5. The positive sentiment lifted the S&P 500 to its session highs during the opening minutes. The benchmark average... Read More

November 16, 2012

The major averages began the day on a down note and continued declining for the first two hours of the session. As the S&P 500 reached its lows, Congressional leaders held a press conference regarding the progress of fiscal cliff negotiations. During the public statement, Senator Harry Reid said that... Read More

November 15, 2012

Equities showed indecision in the early going as trade hovered around the flat line for the first 90 minutes before the S&P 500 slid to a session low near 1350. The level provided some support for the benchmark index which managed to cross into positive territory before sellers retook control... Read More

November 14, 2012

Equities began the day on a higher note, but the early strength did not hold past the opening minutes. The S&P 500 marked its session best shortly after the open, and headed lower. The morning slide was accompanied by headlines out of the Middle East, which indicated Israeli forces have... Read More

November 13, 2012

Equities began today’s session on a lower note. However, the major averages followed the lower open with a steady climb towards session highs. The optimism held the S&P 500 near the 1,385 level for the majority of the session, before late day selling pushed it back into the red. As... Read More

November 12, 2012

Stocks began today’s session on a higher note. However, the S&P 500 followed the early strength with a slide into the red. After hovering near its lows for little over an hour, the index staged a steady climb towards fresh session highs. The benchmark average followed the early afternoon strength... Read More

November 9, 2012

Stocks began the day in the red after equity futures showed considerable pre-market weakness. The S&P 500 spent the opening minutes just below its flat line. However, the benchmark average began climbing after the Washington Post reported that a plan for a middle class tax freeze will be proposed by... Read More

November 8, 2012

Equities began today’s session on a slightly higher note. However, the bullish bias was dispelled during the opening hour. After marking its session high at 1,401, the S&P 500 reversed and slid to its 200-day moving average near the 1,380 area. The index followed the move with a seven point... Read More

November 7, 2012

After showing early gains, U.S. equity futures have weakened and are now firmly lower after Barack Obama was reelected to a second term as President. The S&P 500 futures are lower by 0.8%. Overnight, the global markets were focused on the outcome of the presidential election. As the results began... Read More

November 6, 2012

Equities began the day on a slightly higher note. The early gains were doubled after an erroneous report on the Cincinnati Enquirer Website suggested Mr. Romney had a considerable lead over Mr. Obama in Ohio. The newspaper promptly retracted the claim, and said that the page accidentally showed a template... Read More

November 5, 2012

Today’s session began on a mixed note. The S&P 500 spent the majority of the day in negative territory as cautious trade took place ahead of tomorrow’s Presidential election. However, late afternoon buying drove the benchmark average to a higher finish by 0.2%. The technology sector outperformed the broader market.... Read More

November 2, 2012

Today’s session started on a higher note after the nonfarm payrolls report exceeded expectations, and pointed to 171,000 jobs added during October. However, the bullish sentiment faded quickly, and the major averages headed into the red. The S&P 500 crossed its flat line 60 minutes into the session and held... Read More

November 1, 2012

Stocks began the day with a bullish sentiment as the three major averages spent the first 90 minutes on a steady upward climb. After reaching session highs, the S&P 500 leveled off and held its gains into the afternoon before ending with a gain of 1.1%. The technology sector was... Read More

October 31, 2012

Equities began the session on a strong note. However, the bullish sentiment failed to hold as major averages began sliding off their highs shortly after the open. The key indices then marked their respective lows in the early afternoon before rallying in the final hour to finish mixed. The S&P... Read More

October 30, 2012

U.S. equity futures are modestly lower. The S&P 500 futures are off by 0.1%, while Nasdaq futures are down 0.5%. Note that the futures market will close at 9:15 ET, and the equity markets will remain closed due to the aftermath of hurricane Sandy. The Treasury market is closed as... Read More

October 29, 2012

U.S. equity futures are modestly lower amid downbeat overseas trade. Note that U.S. equity markets will be closed today due to Hurricane Sandy. In addition, the Chicago Board Options Exchange has cancelled all trading. Overnight, the global equity markets were mostly lower. Reports out of China suggested there is little... Read More

October 26, 2012

Equities showed indecision in the early going after Apple (AAPL 604.00, -5.54) and Amazon (AMZN 238.24, +15.32) delivered disappointing results, while the first reading of the third quarter GDP was reported ahead of expectations. The S&P 500 followed the early choppiness with a late-morning slide into the... Read More

October 25, 2012

Equities began the session with a bullish bias which failed to hold past the opening minutes. After opening near session highs, the S&P 500 spent the first hour in a steady decline towards the flat line. Once that level was reached, the index spent the remainder of the day trapped... Read More

October 24, 2012

Stocks began the session on an upbeat note, but the bullish sentiment was dispelled in the opening minutes. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq marked their respective highs minutes into the trading day, before sliding back towards the unchanged level. The Dow, however, held its gains a bit longer before recoupling... Read More

October 23, 2012

Equities began the session with an opening sell-off as disappointing earnings combined with Moody’s downgrade of five Spanish regions fueled the bearish sentiment. Stocks reached session lows during the first hour before attempting to rebound. The tech-heavy Nasdaq showed intraday resilience, but the attempt to reclaim its early losses was... Read More

October 22, 2012

Stocks got off to a quiet start as mixed quarterly reports continued to pour in. Indecision was apparent in the early going as the major averages traded near their respective unchanged levels. As the day progressed, the S&P 500 and Dow headed lower. However, the final hour brought out bargain-hunters... Read More

October 19, 2012

Today’s session was dominated by the sellers as disappointing third quarter earnings continued to roll in. Equities opened lower, and spent the majority of the session sliding to fresh lows. The sell-off came to an end once the S&P 500 hit the 1,430 level 90 minutes ahead of the close.... Read More

October 18, 2012

Stocks opened modestly lower after today’s weekly initial claims report missed expectations by 28,000. The early weakness was erased before midday as the major averages rallied to their respective session highs. However, the slim gains were short-lived as disappointing quarterly results from Google (GOOG 695.00, -60.49) hit the wires... Read More

October 17, 2012

Stocks began today’s session on a negative note after two technology bellwethers reported disappointing earnings. However, the cautious sentiment was short-circuited when today’s housing starts report revealed its highest reading since July 2008. The major averages reacted by staging a steady climb to their respective session highs. A brief afternoon... Read More

October 16, 2012

Equities opened the session on a higher note after reports indicated Spain may be willing to ask for access to precautionary credit. The reports were followed by comments out of Germany which suggested the country’s officials believe additional hurdles remain in Spain’s way. Separate reports indicated the old continent’s other... Read More

October 15, 2012

Equities got off to a slow start as the major averages spent the first 90 minutes near their respective unchanged levels. Today’s economic data was mixed, and did little to move the markets. After early indecision, the three indices rose to their session highs, and maintained those levels into the... Read More

October 12, 2012

Today’s session got off to a quiet start. The major averages held near their opening levels until the preliminary October University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Survey registered a reading of 83.1. The survey’s best level since September 2007 lifted the major averages to their session highs. However, the exuberance was... Read More

October 11, 2012

Stocks began the day on a mixed note before the release of the latest University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Survey. The report registered a reading of 83.1 which was its best level since September 2007. Following the announcement, the major averages spiked to session highs, but the move was promptly... Read More

October 10, 2012

Equities got off to a mixed start as the key indices chopped around their respective unchanged lines during the first hour. Sellers took control after traders digested the wholesale inventories data, pushing the major averages to their worst levels. Afternoon trade was mostly quiet as the three averages hovered near... Read More

October 9, 2012

Equities started the day on a mixed note before a broad sell-off sent the major averages to their session lows. The weakness started in the technology sector where a slew of companies lowered their third quarter guidance. After reaching their worst levels of the day, the key indices traded sideways... Read More

October 8, 2012

Equities began the day on a negative note after the World Bank cut its growth projections for the Asian region. Lacking an additional catalyst, the key indices spent the majority of the session trading near their opening levels. A late-day buying surge briefly lifted the S&P 500 and Dow to... Read More

October 5, 2012

Equities began the day on a higher note despite mixed jobs data. After reaching session highs within the first hour, the major averages reversed and spent the remainder of the day sliding towards the unchanged level. As a result, the S&P 500 ended flat while the Dow advanced 0.3% to... Read More

October 4, 2012

Stocks began the session with a bullish bias. The rally reached session highs 30 minutes after the open when the August factory orders report indicated a 5.2% decrease. The number was not positive in itself, posting its worst reading since January 2009. However, it was better-than-feared as expectations called for... Read More

October 3, 2012

Equities got off to a slow start as the major averages showed indecision in the early going. After chopping around the flat line during the first hour of trade, the key indices reached their session highs at the midway point. Unable to hold those levels, stocks returned to the middle... Read More

October 2, 2012

The major averages got off to a strong start, but the bullish bias faded shortly after the open. Headlines out of Europe provided another risk-off signal as reports suggested that a Spanish aid request is not imminent. After marking their session highs during the first five minutes of trade, the... Read More

October 1, 2012

Today’s session began with an extension of the bullish sentiment observed in overseas action. Following a higher open, U.S. equities got an additional boost from the ISM Index which was reported at 51.5 against the expectations of a 49.7 reading. After rallying to session highs, the Dow held the... Read More

September 28, 2012

Equities stumbled out of the gate before the September Chicago PMI added to the risk-off sentiment. The survey revealed a contractionary reading of 49.7, while expectations called for the number to be closer to 52.9. After marking session lows, equities remained near the bottom of the range until the... Read More

September 27, 2012

Equities got off to a strong start despite a string of negative economic data. The third estimate of second quarter GDP indicated growth of 1.3% which was well below the prior reading of 1.7%. Elsewhere, durable goods orders also showed notable weakness as new orders declined by 13.2% during... Read More

September 26, 2012

Equities began today’s session on a down note after Spain and the country’s fiscal struggles were put back in the spotlight. The major indices marked session lows during the first hour before reversing and attempting a return to the unchanged line. However, due to the lack of a catalyst, the... Read More

September 25, 2012

Equities began today’s session slightly higher before receiving an additional boost from positive consumer confidence data. Despite the upbeat data, stocks were unable to maintain the bullish tone as the major averages slipped into negative territory around midday. Stocks then extended their slide which also coincided with weakness in crude... Read More

September 24, 2012

Stocks began the week on a down note after Germany’s Ifo Business Climate Index missed expectations. The major averages marked their session lows during the opening minutes before setting on a day-long climb towards the unchanged line. Due to weakness in Apple, the tech-heavy Nasdaq underperformed with a loss of... Read More

September 21, 2012

Equities began the session on a higher note as quadruple witching contributed to a volume surge at the start. However, after reaching session highs within the first few minutes of trade, the major averages spent the rest of the day drifting towards the unchanged line. As a result the S&P... Read More

September 20, 2012

Stocks got off to a slow start after bearish data from around the world overshadowed investor optimism. Japan reported a wider-than-expected trade deficit while the French and Eurozone PMI readings were well short of expectations. Domestically, the weekly initial claims exceeded expectations. After marking session lows thirty minutes into... Read More

September 19, 2012

Equities began today’s session on a slightly higher note after the Bank of Japan raised its asset purchase target in an attempt to inject additional liquidity into the market and to weaken the yen. Stocks were also boosted slightly by positive economic data which indicated an uptick in existing home... Read More

September 18, 2012

Today’s session was mostly uneventful as equities remained near their opening levels throughout the day. The major averages showed some divergence as the S&P 500 shed 0.2% while the Dow added 0.1%. Stocks within the consumer staples sector were the top performer of the day. Within the group, Energizer (span... Read More

September 17, 2012

Stocks began today’s session on a negative note after the September Empire Manufacturing Survey registered its worst reading since April 2009. The bearish sentiment was then extended as unfounded rumors of tapping into the strategic petroleum reserve sent the major averages to fresh session lows. As a result, the S&P... Read More

September 14, 2012

Today’s session started on a positive note as stocks appeared poised for a second day of broad post-FOMC gains. However, the major averages marked their respective session highs during the first hour of trade and headed lower since. The Nasdaq was able to outperform as it held the bulk... Read More

September 13, 2012

Today’s session was highlighted by a risk rally sparked by the Federal Reserve’s decision to increase policy accommodations by purchasing additional agency mortgage-backed securities at a pace of $40 billion per month. The program is open-ended by design, which allows the Federal Reserve to terminate it once the employment... Read More

September 12, 2012

Stocks started the day higher but were only able to hold a portion of their gains in a session which saw two pullbacks to the unchanged line. After spending most of the day in the black, the S&P 500 ended higher by 0.2%. Telecoms were broadly higher as indicated by... Read More

September 11, 2012

Equities were broadly higher throughout the day before late afternoon selling sent the Nasdaq into negative territory. The dip also pushed the other indices lower, but they were able to hold most of their gains. The Dow finished higher by 0.5% while the Nasdaq ended flat. The energy sector was... Read More

September 10, 2012

Following a mostly uneventful, range-bound trading day, equities saw a late afternoon push to session lows. The major averages saw a notable divergence as the Dow slipped 0.4% while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq slid 0.6% and 1.0%, respectively. The Dow Jones Transportation Average outperformed the broader market as most... Read More

September 7, 2012

Stocks got off to a mixed start after this morning’s jobs data proved to be a disappointment. The anemic numbers turned into yet another argument in favor of additional easing while lower guidance from a technology bellwether contributed to a divergence in the major averages. The S&P 500 finished higher... Read More

September 6, 2012

U.S. stocks rallied Thursday after European Central Bank President Mario Draghi said policy makers had agreed to unlimited bond purchases to get the upper hand on the region’s debt crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 137 points to 13,185. The S&P 500 index rose 14 points to 1,417. The... Read More

September 5, 2012

U.S. stocks wavered lower Wednesday as global-growth concerns competed with optimism about the European Central Bank’s bond-buying plan after Bloomberg News reported the proposal would involve unlimited purchases. “If the ECB can address the dysfunction in the bond market, it’s a good step,” said John Canally, an investment strategist... Read More

September 4, 2012

U.S. equity futures are pointing to a modestly lower start to the session, following lowered guidance from FedEx (FDX 85.05, -2.49) and mixed trading overseas. S&P futures are currently down 0.4%. Overnight, Asian markets finished in the red, while European indices are mixed. The Asian markets were faced with... Read More

August 31, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher Friday as investors looked to a speech by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and more definitive action from the European Central Bank next week. “We’ll see how many investors still expect something from the Fed. Clearly things are not good here, but they’re not bad.... Read More

August 30, 2012

U.S. stocks tallied steep declines Thursday after a report had economic confidence in the euro area sliding to a three-year low and Japan’s retail sales fell in July. Strategist also said investors could be setting themselves up for a fall ahead of Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke’s speech Friday in... Read More

August 29, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Wednesday after the government hiked its estimate of how the economy performed and investors looked to Federal Reserve Ben Bernanke’s speech. “It is like a car travelling at 17 miles per hour in a 55 mile-per-hour speed zone,” Fred Dickson, chief investment strategist at Davidson Companies,... Read More

August 28, 2012

U.S. stocks started Tuesday with modest losses as an upbeat report on the U.S. housing market failed to override concern about Europe’s debt troubles. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 22 points to 13,101. The S&P 500 index shed 2 points to 1,407. The Nasdaq Composite retreated 5 points to... Read More

August 27, 2012

U.S. stocks mostly climbed Monday as Apple gained in the wake of a $1 billion jury ruling in its favor. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 13 points to 13,144. The S&P 500 index gained nearly a point to 1,412.. The Nasdaq Composite added 7 points to 3,077. The rich... Read More

August 24, 2012

U.S. stocks open mildly lower Friday, with the Dow industrials and the S&P 500 positioned for their first weekly drop in seven, on worry about Europe’s handling of its debt crisis. “It’s been a bad week for markets. It’s a very-little volume reaction to some nice weeks of a rally.... Read More

August 23, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower Thursday after the government reported the number of those applying for jobless benefits rose more than estimated last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 54 points to 13,118. The S&P 500 index dipped 5 points to 1,407. The Nasdaq Composite declined 13 points to 3,060.... Read More

August 22, 2012

U.S. stocks began moderately lower Wednesday, extending losses into a second session after a run that had the indexes at multi-year highs. “We’re pushing up at levels now where a bit of a pullback is in our near future, the question is how severe,” said Andrew Fitzpatrick, director of investments... Read More

August 21, 2012

U.S. stocks rose Tuesday on optimism that euro-zone leaders would take steps this week to contain the region’s debt crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 11 points to 13,283. The S&P 500 index gained 3 points to 1,421. The Nasdaq Composite added 13 points to 3,090. Up, up, and... Read More

August 20, 2012

U.S. stocks began in a modest retreat Monday after capping off another winning week that brought the S&P 500 index within reach of a four-year high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 22 points to 13,252. The S&P 500 declined 2 points to 1,415. The Nasdaq Composite shed 5 points... Read More

August 17, 2012

US stock futures are completely flat today. Futures on the Dow Jones Industrial Average are down 2 points to 13,223 and those on the S&P 500 index dropped 0.70 points to 1,412. Nasdaq-100 futures were bucking the trend up 6 points to 2,769. US consumer sentiment will be released at... Read More

August 16, 2012

US stock futures maintained modest gains premarket. Holding these small gains is good considering data showed a slight rise in weekly jobless claims and a decline in housing starts in July. First-time claims for state unemployment benefits rose in the latest week, the Labor Department reported Thursday. The number of... Read More

August 15, 2012

US stocks opened flat today after a release of the consumer price index. U.S. consumer prices were unchanged in July, as lower energy prices offset gains in food and other items. The core consumer price index rose 0.1%. In June overall consumer prices were unchanged, while the core gauge rose... Read More

August 14, 2012

U.S. stock futures extended gains on Tuesday after data showed that retail sales rose 0.8% to a seasonally adjusted $403.9 billion in July, posting the biggest gain since February. Another factor pushing the futures higher was a positive poll regarding investor confidence. Investor confidence in the global economic outlook in... Read More

August 13, 2012

U.S. stocks started slightly lower Monday after concerns about Asian economic growth took some air out of the benchmark indexes’ extended weekly winning streak. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 39 points to 13,169. The Nasdaq Composite dropped 3 points to 3,018. The S&P 500 fell 3 points to 1,403.... Read More

August 10, 2012

U.S. stocks began lower on Friday, denting weekly gains and the S&P 500 index’s five-session winning streak. “We’re just reacting to China data,” Peter Boockvar, equity strategist at Miller Tabak, said of disappointing Chinese trade data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 64 points to 13,100. The S&P 500 index... Read More

August 9, 2012

U.S. stocks began Thursday near flat, with investors finding little motivation to move in either direction after extended gains. “Earnings season is for the most part behind us, and like the rest of America, you’ve got Congress on vacation, the European Central Bank is on vacation, and the Fed doesn’t... Read More

August 8, 2012

U.S. stocks began lower on Wednesday, with investors sidelined after a three-session win streak. “It appears this week’s three-day global stock market rally is running out of steam,” emailed Fred Dickson, chief investment strategist at Davidson Cos. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 41 points to 13,127 with weakness in... Read More

August 7, 2012

U.S. stocks started higher Tuesday, with the S&P 500 index surpassing 1,400 for the first time in three months, as quarterly earnings keep coming in better than expected. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 54 points to 13,171. The S&P 500 index rose 6 points to 1,400. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

August 6, 2012

U.S. stocks began higher Monday, extending the prior week’s gains, on better-than-anticipated corporate earnings and as worry diminished about Europe’s debt trouble. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 54 points to 13,151. The S&P 500 index climbed 5 points to 1,396. The Nasdaq Composite rose 11 points to 2,979. Thanks... Read More

August 3, 2012

U.S. stocks started sharply ahead on Friday, shaving weekly losses, after the July nonfarm payrolls report proved better than expected, even as the unemployment rate rose to 8.3%. Market analysts also pointed to speculation that Spain would soon make a formal request for aid, with that nation’s 10-year government yields... Read More

August 2, 2012

U.S. stocks began Thursday in a steep decline as European Central Bank President Mario Draghi failed to deliver hoped for action to address Europe’s debt crisis. “He essentially came out last week and put his reputation on the line by promising they’ll do whatever it takes, and he failed on... Read More

August 1, 2012

U.S. stocks began higher Wednesday with the Federal Reserve viewed as likely to leave the door open to further stimulus when it releases its policy decision in the afternoon. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 50 points to 13,058. The S&P 500 index climbed 3 points to 1,383. The Nasdaq... Read More

July 31, 2012

U.S. stocks began mainly lower Tuesday after reports that the German Finance Ministry said it did not see any need to give the European Stability Mechanism a bank license. “The Germans want the big bazooka kept on the sidelines,” Peter Boockvar, equity strategist at Miller Tabak, emailed. The Dow Jones... Read More

July 30, 2012

U.S. stocks on Monday began by wavering between tepid gains and losses, with investors hesitant after a two-session surge ahead of anticipated central-bank talk in the days ahead. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 2 points to 13,073. The S&P 500 index lost half a point to 1,385. The Nasdaq... Read More

July 27, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher on Friday, with the S&P 500 index joining the Dow Industrials in positive turf for the week, after the leaders of Germany and France pledged to protect the euro zone. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 45 points to 12,933. The S&P 500 index climbed 5... Read More

July 26, 2012

U.S. stocks on Thursday opened with sizeable gains thanks in large part to comments from European Central Bank President Mario Draghi vowing to preserve the euro. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 233 points, or 1.9%, to 12,909. The S&P 500 index rose 22 points, or 1.7%, to 1,360.... Read More

July 25, 2012

U.S. stocks began higher Wednesday after a three-day losing stretch as Caterpillar and Boeing hiked their outlooks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 95 points to 12,713. The S&P 500 added 3 points to 1,342. The Nasdaq Composite advanced 2 points to 2,865. The earnings keep flooding in. Apple is... Read More

July 24, 2012

U.S. stocks reversed early gains Tuesday as stronger Chinese manufacturing data vied with a worsening in sentiment about Europe, and as investors traded cautiously before some key earnings reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped an initial 32 points to 12,689. By Monday’s close, the index had booked its first... Read More

July 23, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with a thud on Monday as investors, while demand for safe-havens like the U.S. dollar and Treasuries jumped, on fears Greece was again on the cusp of default and as Spanish bond yields soared. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 220 points, or 1.8%, to 12,598. The... Read More

July 20, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower Friday, on track to break three days of gains, even as earnings from the likes of General Electric and Microsoft continue to come in better than expected. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 80 points to 12,867, led by a 1.5% pullback in Bank of... Read More

July 19, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher on Thursday, led by the technology sector and strong results from International Business Machines. Investors are also awaiting several economic reports later in the morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 33 points, or 0.3%, to 12,943, with IBM shares up 3.5%. The S&P 500... Read More

July 18, 2012

The stock market showed continued resilience yesterday, recouping early losses to finish with a 0.7% gain. Stocks initially showed some disappointment around Fed Chairman Bernanke’s prepared remarks, which didn’t offer any new hints toward additional Quantitative Easing, but the market began to rebound mid-way through the Fed Chairman’s testimony. It... Read More

July 17, 2012

U.S. stock indexes rise modestly on Tuesday’s start, with Goldman Sachs and many other firms reporting better than expected earnings. Investors will also be awaiting the Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke testimony to Congress at 10 o’clock. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 61 points to 12,788. The S&P 500... Read More

July 16, 2012

U.S. retreated Monday after the prior session’s rally after data illustrating U.S. retail sales in June fell for a third month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 53 points to 12,724. The S&P 500 index declined 4 points to 1,352. The Nasdaq Composite fell 9 points to 2,897. A quiet... Read More

July 13, 2012

Triskaidekaphobia or the fear of the number 13 doesn’t seem to be bothering the broader market on this Friday the 13th. U.S. stocks opened higher on Friday, rebounding from the market’s longest decline since May, after U.S. and Chinese economic data coupled with earnings reports came in better than... Read More

July 12, 2012

U.S. stocks began another down session Thursday, with better-than-expected weekly data on U.S. jobless claims failing to offset worries about the global growth. The report from the Labor Department is “certainly good news and again confirms the muddle-through scenario, the slow-growth scenario for the United States,” said Jim Russell, chief... Read More

July 11, 2012

U.S. stocks began Wednesday with mild losses, with the S&P 500 flirting with a fifth down session, as Wall Street looked to minutes from last month’s Federal Reserve meeting for hints of more stimulus. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 26 points to 12,626. The S&P 500 fell half a... Read More

July 10, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher on Tuesday, rebounding after a three-session losing streak, after European officials moved to bolster Spanish banks and upbeat factory data from Britain and Italy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 89 points to 12,825. The S&P 500 Index added 8 points to 1,361. The Nasdaq... Read More

July 9, 2012

U.S. stocks tilted mostly down Monday as Spanish yields move higher once again. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 27 points to 12,745. The S&P 500 slipped 2 points to 1,352. The Nasdaq Composite rose a fraction to 2,937. Earnings season starts tonight with Alcoa , but once again the... Read More

July 6, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Friday as jobs data disappointed investors and reaffirmed concerns that the economy is losing momentum. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 110 points to 12,786. The S&P 500 index declined 11 points to 1,356.6 while the Nasdaq Composite declined 20 points to 2,955. The losses... Read More

July 5, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Thursday, while the dollar rallied after the president of the European Central Bank said downside risks to the euro-area growth outlook have materialized. The news seemed to overshadow positive U.S. economic data out earlier this morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 72 points to... Read More

July 3, 2012

U.S. stocks opened slightly lower on Tuesday in a pre-holiday shortened session, as investors awaited data on factory orders for more clues on the health of the nation’s economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 11 points to 12,859. The S&P 500 index dropped nearly a point to 1,364 while... Read More

July 2, 2012

July 2, 2012 Stocks on Wall Street opened slightly lower on Monday after the previous session’s rally as investors awaited U.S. data on the manufacturing sector. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 19 points to 12,862 while and the S&P 500 index slipped a point to 1,360. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

June 29, 2012

U.S. stocks on Friday began sharply higher after European Union leaders agreed to moves intended to bolster the economies of the region’s more troubled nations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 175 points, or 1.4%, to 12,777. The S&P 500 added 20 points, or 1.5%, to 1,349. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

June 28, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower Thursday, retreating after two days of gains, ahead of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the Affordable Care Act and the start of a summit of European leaders. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 103 points to 12,524, with J.P. Morgan Chase off 3.6% on... Read More

June 27, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Wednesday, extending gains into a second day, ahead of a report on the housing market, which recently has shown hopeful signs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 41 points to 12,575. The S&P 500 added 6 points to 1,326. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 16 points to... Read More

June 26, 2012

U.S. stocks began Tuesday with mild gains ahead of a report on consumer confidence and after better-than-expected data on U.S. home prices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 19 points to 12,522. The S&P 500 Index rose 3 points to 1,317. The Nasdaq Composite added 11 points to 2,847. A... Read More

June 25, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower Monday, with Wall Street pessimism growing on prospects of concrete results from a meeting of European leaders later in the week. A Supreme Court ruling on 2010’s Affordable Care Act is also expected this week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 144 points, or 1.1%,... Read More

June 22, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher on Friday, shaving weekly losses, after the European Central Bank said it would take further steps to ease loans collateral for banks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 44 points to 12,618. The S&P 500 climbed 4 points to 1,329. The Nasdaq Composite rose 10 points... Read More

June 21, 2012

U.S. stocks opened near flat Thursday after Spain sold more debt than anticipated and weekly claims for jobless benefits illustrating the tepid U.S. labor market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 13 points to 12,837. The S&P 500 index fell nearly a point to 1,354. The Nasdaq Composite fell 6... Read More

June 20, 2012

U.S. stocks opened mildly lower Wednesday, with the S&P 500 index pausing after a four-session winning run, as investors looked to a policy decision from the Federal Reserve later in the day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 15 points to 12,821. The S&P 500 shed a point to 1,356.... Read More

June 13, 2012

It was a volatile day in the market today. All indices opened up lower, rallied mid-day to get in to positive territory, crashed coming into the close, then gave a last ditch effort upward, but not enough to close positive. The Dow closed down 77.42 points, the S&P down 9.30... Read More

June 12, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly ahead Tuesday with volatility expected to continue as Wall Street tracked developments related to the European financial crisis. Making a mild comeback after the prior day’s sharp drop, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 22 points to 12,432. The S&P 500 added a point to 1,310.... Read More

June 11, 2012

U.S. stocks gained Monday, extending Wall Street’s best weekly performance this year, as investors applauded Spain’s request for financial aid for its banks. “Financial markets this week may take some comfort in the announcement of European support for Spanish banks. While this aid has little chance of stimulating Spain’s deeply... Read More

June 8, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Friday as economic reports from Europe furthered concern about the global economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 44 points to 12,416. The S&P 500 declined 5 points to 1,309. The Nasdaq Composite shed 12 points to 2,818. A quiet day to end the week.... Read More

June 7, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with strong gains Thursday after China cut interest rates for the first time since 2008, furthering hope for additional moves by global central banks, including the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 122 points, or 1%, to 12,537. The S&P 500 climbed 12 points, or... Read More

June 6, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher on Wednesday, lifting the Dow Jones Industrial Average back into positive territory for the year, as pressure mounted on policy makers to come up with additional stimulus. The European Central Bank left its benchmark interest rate at 1% and ECB President Mario Draghi told... Read More

June 5, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly lower Tuesday, with the Dow industrials extending losses into a fifth session, after finance ministers from the Group of Seven industrialized powers conferred by phone. The telephone session comes ahead of a European Central Bank policy meeting Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 10 points... Read More

June 4, 2012

U.S. stocks nosed higher to start Monday trading, getting a lift from reports European leaders were moving closer to some sort of bailout for Spain’s fragile banking system, but hemmed in by weak Chinese services sector activity and Friday’s disappointing U.S. jobs report. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose15 points... Read More

June 1, 2012

U.S. stocks started with more than 1% losses on Friday after a report estimating far lower-than-expected jobs growth in May, following weak Europe and Chinese manufacturing data, added to concerns about global growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 142 points, or 1.2%, to 12,256, with all but one component... Read More

May 31, 2012

U.S. stocks were steady at Thursday’s start, with the benchmark indexes ready to close out May with losses of 6% or more. “We continue to view the equity market as problematic, but not on a cliff facing a huge free fall,” noted Fred Dickson, chief investment strategist at Davidson Cos.... Read More

May 30, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower on Wednesday on worries of a potential Greek exit from the euro and as Spain’s default risk climbed as it attempts to recapitalize its banks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 122 points, or 1%, to 12,457. The S&P 500 shed 14 points, or 1.1%,... Read More

May 29, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with strong gains on Tuesday with news out of Europe pointing toward a possibility of Greece staying in the EU. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rallied 88 points to 12,543, with all of its 30 components trading higher. The S&P 500 index gained 9 points to 1,326.... Read More

May 25, 2012

U.S. stocks tallied slight losses Friday with Wall Street on shaky ground ahead of consumer-confidence data and on European uncertainty ahead of the long U.S. holiday weekend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 24 points to 12,505. The S&P 500 Index rose a point to 1,322. The Nasdaq... Read More

May 24, 2012

U.S. stocks edged mostly lower Thursday, with Hewlett-Packard rallying a day after the personal-computer company said it would cut about 8% of its workforce over the next couple of years. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 19 points to 12,476. The S&P 500 Index fell a fraction to 1,318. The... Read More

May 23, 2012

U.S. stocks began sharply lower on Wednesday, echoing a slide in equities around the globe, on intensifying concern Greece could exit the euro and as the region’s leaders gathered in Brussels. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 87 points to 12,415. The S&P 500 declined 8 points to 1,307. The... Read More

May 22, 2012

U.S. stocks held near steady Tuesday after opening slightly higher on thinking China and Europe might move to stimulate global economic growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average erased gains to fall 15 points to 12,489. The S&P 500 added more than a point to 1,317. The Nasdaq Composite fell a... Read More

May 21, 2012

U.S. stocks started mildly higher on Monday, with Wall Street attempting to bounce back from the worst week of the year. The Dow industrials rose 40 points to 12,409. The S&P 500 Index added 5 points to 1,300. The Nasdaq Composite rose 11 points to 2,790. The broader market looks... Read More

May 18, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with limited gains Friday as the market attempted to bounce back from its week of losses, with shares of Facebook to begin trading on the Nasdaq in about an hour. The Dow industrials rose 7 points to 12,449. The S&P 500 added 2 points to 1,306.... Read More

May 17, 2012

U.S. stocks quickly erased opening gains Thursday as better-than-expected results from Wal-Mart Stores and others failed to assuage investors worried about the ongoing crisis in Europe. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 18 points to 12,579. The S&P 500 Index shed nearly 2 points to 1,322. The Nasdaq Composite declined... Read More

May 16, 2012

U.S. stocks began with modest gains Wednesday after economic reports yielded better-than-anticipated results on U.S. industrial production and the housing industry. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 37 points to 12,669. The S&P 500 climbed 5 points to 1,336. The Nasdaq Composite advanced 9 points to 2,903. Weakness overseas, particularly... Read More

May 15, 2012

U.S. stocks struggled into positive terrain after a wobbly start on Tuesday after a gauge of manufacturing in the New York region rebounded in May, but investors also contended with reports of another breakdown in attempts to form a coalition government in Greece. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 11... Read More

May 14, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower Monday as investors worried about Greece’s potential exit from the euro zone and rising Spanish and Italian bond yields. “The cost of insuring against a Spanish default is now more expensive than for Hungary,” emailed Peter Boockvar, equity strategist at Miller Tabak. The Dow Jones... Read More

May 11, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower Friday, with large banks leading the losses after J.P. Morgan Chase reported a $2 billion trading loss. The bank’s CEO, Jamie Dimon, called the losses “self inflicted” in revealing them late Thursday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 67 points to 12,787, with J.P. Morgan... Read More

May 11, 2012

JP Morgan Chase NYSE Symbol: JPM Industry: Financials Price as of 5/11: $36.96 “Sell in May and go away,” is in full swing as the major averages are down 3% for the month. The weakness is coming from overseas, particularly Europe. Back here in the US, the sectors... Read More

May 10, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Thursday after the government said jobless claims dipped last week, signaling companies could pick up the pace of hiring in May. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 64 points to 12,900. The S&P 500 added 9 points to 1,364. The Nasdaq Composite gained 9 points to... Read More

May 9, 2012

U.S. stocks began Wednesday in retreat, with the benchmark indexes sliding more than 1% on concern about Europe’s sovereign-debt crisis, and rising borrowing costs in Spain and Italy. “People are fearful of the unknown, and nobody fully understands what could develop,” Bob Pavlik, chief market strategist at Banyan Partners, said... Read More

May 8, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower Tuesday as Greece’s struggle to form a government intensified worry about the region’s debt. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 95 points to 12,913. McDonalds is one of the weaker components due to comments about slower sales. The S&P 500 retreated 10 points to 1,359. The... Read More

May 7, 2012

U.S. stocks started with losses Monday following weakness in Asia overnight and elections in France and Greece that added more uncertainty to euro-zone efforts to grapple with sovereign debt. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 48 points to 12,990. The S&P 500 Index lost 2 points to 1,366. The Nasdaq... Read More

May 4, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with losses Friday after April’s job gains proved less than expected. An upward revision to the prior month and a decline in the jobless rate failed to keep losses in check. The jobs report was “a little disappointing, but I don’t put a tremendous amount of credence... Read More

May 3, 2012

U.S. stocks wobbled lower Thursday with concern about Europe overtaking cheer that came with domestic data, which had a better-than-expected report on the labor front. The Dow Jones Industrial Average retreated 9 points to 12,258. The S&P 500 Index fell a point to 1,401. The Nasdaq Composite dropped 5 points... Read More

May 2, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Wednesday after the ADP private-payrolls data left Wall Street less optimistic about Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report from the Labor Department. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 49 points to 13,229. The S&P 500 declined 7 points to 1,398. The Nasdaq Composite shed 10 points... Read More

May 1, 2012

U.S. stocks on Tuesday started a new month with tentative losses ahead of data that could illustrate U.S. manufacturing expanded at a slower pace for April. “Earnings are the key market support, but investors are unwilling to pay for future earnings when the economic and political climate is so cloudy.... Read More

April 30, 2012

U.S. stocks dipped mildly to start the last day of April as economic data has been rather disappointing of late. News out of Europe that Spain has fallen into a recession isn’t helping. The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened lower by 4 points at 13,223. The S&P 500 retreated 3... Read More

April 27, 2012

U.S. stocks started with gains Friday as investors cheered results from corporations including Amazon.com and Ford Motor. Stocks maintained gains after the Commerce Department said the economy expanded less than estimated in the first quarter. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 26 points to 13,231. The S&P 500 rose 3... Read More

April 25, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher Wednesday as Apple’s blow-out quarter lifted the Nasdaq above the 3,000 level. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 71 points to 13,073. The S&P 500 advanced 13 points, or 1%, to 1,385. The Nasdaq Composite surged 52 points, or 1.8%, to 3,014. It’s all about... Read More

April 24, 2012

U.S. stocks opened mostly higher Tuesday as investors considered solid earnings from companies including Dow component 3M but took a caution stance ahead of additional economic data on consumer confidence and home sales. The Dow Jones Industrial rose 34 points to 12,961. The S&P 500 inched up a point to... Read More

April 23, 2012

U.S. stocks declined sharply Monday as political uncertainty in Europe cast doubt on the region’s ability to deal with its debt crisis and after cereal-maker Kellogg cut its 2012 forecast. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 122 points to 12,906. The S&P 500 declined 14 points, or 1.1%, to 1,363.... Read More

April 20, 2012

U.S. stocks began Friday with strong gains on better-than-expected quarterly results from corporations including General Electric and Microsoft. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 84 points to 13,048. The S&P 500 rose 7 points to 1,383. The Nasdaq Composite advanced 12 points to 3,020. One thing is for sure the... Read More

April 19, 2012

U.S. stocks opened mildly lower on Thursday following a flood of earnings and jobless claims data that disappointed for a second week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 20 points to 13,012. The S&P 500 Index shed 2 points to 1,382. The Nasdaq Composite declined 2 points to 3,029. In... Read More

April 18, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower Wednesday as investors voiced disappointment with quarterly results from technology bellwethers Intel and International Business Machines. The Dow Jones Industrial Average retreated 65 points to 13,050, with Intel and IBM down the most among its 30 components. The S&P 500 shed 5 points to 1,385... Read More

April 17, 2012

U.S. stocks began sharply ahead Tuesday as improved demand at a Spanish bond auction offset concern about Europe’s debt trouble. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 121 points, or 1%, to 13,043. The S&P 500 climbed 10 points to 1,380. The Nasdaq Composite gained 23 points to 3,012. The earnings... Read More

April 16, 2012

U.S. stocks leapt sharply higher Monday after March retail sales topped expectations, bolstering confidence in the recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 124 points to 12,973. The S&P 500 Index added 9 points to 1,379. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 13 points to 3,024. The news overseas wasn’t particularly good,... Read More

April 13, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower on Friday, retreating after the S&P 500’s best two-day rise so far this year, as investors pondered a report showing slower-than-expected growth in China. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 59 points to 12,927. The S&P 500 lost 6 points to 1,381. The Nasdaq Composite fell... Read More

April 12, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher on Thursday as investors considered an unexpected rise in jobless claims last week. “This jobs number, combined with last Friday’s disappointing employment report, may spark increasing concern regardling the pace of the ongoing U.S. economic expansion,” said Fred Dickson, chief investment strategist at Davidson Cos.... Read More

April 11, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply higher Wednesday after five straight down days as investors find cheer in an unexpected first-quarter profit from aluminum producer Alcoa. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 104 points to 12,822. The S&P 500 gained 14 points to 1,372. The Nasdaq Composite added 26 points to 3,018. Alcoa... Read More

April 10, 2012

U.S. stocks opened slightly negative on Tuesday, unable to shake off the prior session’s steep losses following weakness overseas once again. Three regional Federal Reserve presidents will be speaking today which may cause some more market volatility. The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened down 15 points to 12,915. The Standard... Read More

April 9, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower on Monday as investors got their first chance to react to the March nonfarm payrolls report, which had employers adding fewer jobs than expected. The U.S. Labor Department on Friday said American companies added 120,000 jobs last month, with the number under 200,000 for the... Read More

April 5, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower Thursday, following yesterdays declines which included the worst session of the year for the Nasdaq. The fall came as a decline in Spanish bond yields furthered worries about Europe’s ability to stem its debt crisis. China was the lone stand out this morning, rallying nearly 2%... Read More

April 4, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with steep declines Wednesday after another upbeat report on the American labor market failed to curb concerns about Europe, highlighted by a disappointing Spanish bond auction. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 121 points to 13,077. The S&P 500 declined 11 points to 1,401. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

April 3, 2012

U.S. stocks began mostly lower on Tuesday ahead of a Commerce Department report on factory orders in February and the Fed comments out this afternoon. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 12 points to 13,251. The S&P 500 Index dipped 2 points to 1,417. The Nasdaq Composite gained 5 points... Read More

April 2, 2012

U.S. stocks opened mildly lower on Monday, the first trading day of the second quarter, after capping a stellar start to the year that has the S&P 500 up 12% for the first three months. The benchmark indexes took a cautious stance ahead of the Institute for Supply Management’s factory... Read More

March 30, 2012

U.S. stocks began with gains Friday, with the S&P 500 readying to notch its largest first-quarter advance in more than a decade, after data had U.S. purchases up more than expected in February. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 42 points to 13,188. The S&P 500 climbed 4 points to... Read More

March 29, 2012

U.S. stocks decline once again following weakness overseas and disappointing jobless claims numbers. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 59 points to 13,066. The S&P 500 Index declined 7 points to 1,397. The Nasdaq Composite lost 15 points to 3,089. The profit-taking continues into quarter end. The energy, materials, and... Read More

March 28, 2012

U.S. stocks opened nearly flat Wednesday following weakness overseas and a lower than expected durable goods order this morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 11 points to 13,208. The S&P 500 Index climbed nearly a point to 1,413. The Nasdaq Composite advanced 8 points to 3,128. Once again tech... Read More

March 28, 2012

U.S. futures are showing modest gains this morning (S&P futures +2, DJ futures +28), as Europe fluctuates just below the flat line and following weakness in Asia. Overnight in Asia, a selloff in China led the way lower for other Asian markets, with the Shanghai Composite following 2.7%. The drop in... Read More

March 27, 2012

U.S. stocks began Tuesday with mild gains following the third best day of the year yesterday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 6 points to 13,247. The S&P 500 rose nearly a point to 1,417. The Nasdaq Composite added nearly a point to 3,123. On the earnings front, Lennar is... Read More

March 26, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher on Monday as Germany’s chancellor signaled she may be open to boosting the euro-zone financial firewall while Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said faster growth will be required to reduce unemployment further. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 89 points to 13,171. The S&P 500 Index... Read More

March 23, 2012

U.S. stocks began virtually flat Friday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 positioned for their largest weekly decline this year. The Dow Industrials dropped 13 points to 13,032. The S&P 500 fell half a point to 1,392. The Nasdaq Composite inched up to 3,063. On the... Read More

March 22, 2012

U.S. stocks started with declines Thursday, with the S&P 500 extending losses into a third session, after economic reports showing contractions in manufacturing in Europe and China. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 56 points to 13,069. The S&P 500 Index shed 7 points to 1,396. The Nasdaq Composite declined... Read More

March 21, 2012

U.S. stocks wavered Wednesday due on part to quiet markets overseas and limited news before the bell. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 10 points to 13,181. The S&P 500 Index added a point to 1,406. The Nasdaq Composite rose 6 points to 3,080. Another day another new high for... Read More

March 20, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 retreating after a three-session rise, on signals China’s economy is slowing. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 77 points to 13,162. The S&P 500 Index declined 8 points to 1,400. The Nasdaq Composite shed 21 points to 3,056. No matter... Read More

March 20, 2012

Futures are pointing lower amid weakness in overseas markets. S&P futures are -7, DJ futures are -55. Asian stocks led the way lower overnight, with the biggest declines taking place in China (Shanghai -1.4%, Hang Seng -1.1%, Nikkei CLOSED). The weakness in China has been attributed to numerous factors. First,... Read More

March 19, 2012

U.S. stocks began mildly lower Monday following last week’s advance to near four-year highs as Apple disclosed this morning they will start paying a dividend and buying back stock. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 18 points to 13,214. The S&P 500 Index shed a point to 1,403. The Nasdaq... Read More

March 16, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +2.30. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +7.50. In the wake of a recent dose of data stock futures have edged higher, but the dollar has drifted lower. Consumer prices increased by 0.4% during February, exactly as had been expected, on average, among... Read More

March 15, 2012

08:40 WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +3.90. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +8.80. Stock futures have maintained a modest lead over fair value following a substantial dose of data. Initial jobless claims for the week ended March 10 totaled 351,000, which is down 14,000 week over... Read More

March 14, 2012

U.S. stocks began modestly higher Wednesday following a crazy Tuesday as the major averages had their best day of the year closing at new highs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 15 points to 13,193. The S&P 500 opened unchanged at 1,395. The Nasdaq Composite rose 3 points to 3,042.... Read More

March 13, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday after the government reported retail sales hit a five-month high in February. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 45 points to 13,005. The S&P 500 Index climbed 7 points to 1,378. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 19 points to 3,003. The news is all... Read More

March 12, 2012

U.S. stocks gained Monday after opening nearly unchanged as Europe readied to seal Greece ‘s rescue package and after China reported a large monthly trade deficit. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 29 points to 12,951. The S&P 500 Index rose a point to 1,372. The Nasdaq Composite climbed... Read More

March 9, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Friday, extending gains into a third session, after the government reported the U.S. economy added more jobs than expected in February, raising optimism about the recovery while also celebrating the third anniversary of the bear market low. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 20 points... Read More

March 8, 2012

U.S. stocks started higher Thursday, extending the prior session’s rebound, as reports that more Greek bondholders were prepared to swap their debt eased some concerns over Europe’s fiscal crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 77 points to 12,913. The S&P 500 rose 9 points to 1,362. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

March 7, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Wednesday after a report offered another upbeat sign on the labor front, bolstering investor confidence some ahead of Friday’s monthly jobs report. The Dow industrials rose 19 points to 12,778. The S&P 500 added 3 points to 1,347. The Nasdaq Composite gained 14 points to 2,925.... Read More

March 6, 2012

U.S. stocks started sharply lower Tuesday as worries about Greece’s pending private-sector debt swap added to concerns about global growth, particularly with concerns of a slower Brazilian and Chinese economies. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 146 points, or 1.1%, to 12,816. The S&P 500 lost 14 points, or 1.1%,... Read More

March 5, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Monday after China reduced its economic growth outlook, with natural-resource companies leading the fall. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 29 points to 12,947. The S&P 500 Index declined 3 points to 1,366. The Nasdaq Composite fell 6 points to 2,969. The US markets are... Read More

March 2, 2012

U.S. stocks struggled for gains Friday after a slightly lower start, with energy companies leading the slide as the price of oil fell. “Overall the economic and market climate is continuing to improve, but markets don’t move in a straight line, and obviously there’s a risk of a pullback here,”... Read More

March 1, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher, with finance firms leading the rise, after mixed economic reports illustrated ongoing improvement in the labor market and lackluster consumer spending in January. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 52 points to 13,004. The S&P 500 rose 5 points to 1,371. The Nasdaq Composite gained... Read More

February 29, 2012

Futures have been fluctuating between the flat line and modestly positive territory since early this morning. S&P futures are currently +2 and DJ futures are +14. The positive tone comes amid continued strength overseas. European markets are showing modest gains on the heels of the latest ECB lending operation (span... Read More

February 28, 2012

U.S. stocks tallied tepid gains on Tuesday ahead of a report on consumer confidence. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2 points to 12,978. The S&P 500 Index added nearly a point to 1,368. The Nasdaq Composite rose 6 points to 2,972. A weak durable goods number out premarket is... Read More

February 27, 2012

U.S. stocks opened in the negative on Monday, following European equities after the Group of 20 finance ministers held off on boosting funding for the International Monetary Fund until the euro zone does more on its own. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 10 points to 1,356. The Dow... Read More

February 24, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher on Friday following a rise in overseas markets overnight. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 5 points to 12,990. The S&P 500 Index rose 2 points to 1,365. The Nasdaq Composite added 5 points to 2,962. A quiet day for news, but the earnings keep... Read More

February 23, 2012

U.S. stocks on Thursday opened with mild losses, with Hewlett-Packard among the shares weighing after the technology company reported a quarterly decline in sales of its personal computers. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 21 points to 12,916. The S&P 500 Index dropped 2 points to 1,355. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

February 22, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with modest losses on Wednesday after hitting 13,000 in the Dow for the first time in over a year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 5 points to 12,960. The S&P 500 Index fell almost 2 points to 1,360. The Nasdaq Composite shed 7 points to 2,940.... Read More

February 21, 2012

U.S. stocks opened higher Tuesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average within 20 points of 13,000 after European finance ministers okayed a second rescue loan for Greece . The Dow industrials rose 30 points to 12,980. The S&P 500 added 3 points to 1,364. The Nasdaq Composite added 8 points... Read More

February 17, 2012

U.S. stocks opened with marginal gains on Friday on hope Greece would get another round of rescue funds after a meeting of European finance ministers early next week. And U.S. economic data supported the Federal Reserve’s view that inflation remains in check. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 28 points... Read More

February 16, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +0.30. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +4.30. Broad market stock futures point to a flat start to today’s session. The tone may seem tepid, but it actually marks an improvement from earlier this morning. Market participants continue to assess this morning’s headlines.... Read More

February 15, 2012

S&P futures vs fair value: +5.10. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +13.50. Overall strength in the commodity complex has the CRB Index up 0.4% this morning. Oil prices have pushed up to $101.85 per barrel for a 1.1% gain in the opening minutes of pit trade. The jump... Read More

February 14, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: -4.50. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: -5.00. Stock futures have eased lower so that a slightly lower start to trade today is expected. Moderate weakness comes after stocks scored strong gains yesterday in response to approved austerity measures in Greece, only to... Read More

February 13, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +9.10. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +20.50. A pronounced drop in stock prices this past Friday pushed the S&P 500 into the red for the week after it had posted five consecutive weekly gains, but the broad market measure appears poised to... Read More

February 10, 2012

U.S. stocks fell sharply on Friday, jeopardizing a sixth week of gains for the S&P 500, after European finance minister stipulating conditions Greece must meet before Athens receives another round of funds. “The bottom line for U.S. investors is that while the Greek situation has been pushed down the importance... Read More

February 9, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly higher Thursday as Greek political leaders reached an austerity deal and U.S. jobless claims fell last week in another indication the labor market is recovering. “We’re continuing with that trend of better-than-expected claims,” said Michael Gibbs, director of equity strategy at Morgan Keegan. “The bullish... Read More

February 8, 2012

U.S. stocks wavered early Wednesday, with investors unsure what to make of Greece ‘s work to reach the accord needed to secure new rescue funds. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 9 points to 12,868. The S&P 500 Index gained half a point to 1,347. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 4... Read More

February 7, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower Tuesday as Greece tried to reach consensus on budget cuts needed for further rescue funds. The Dow Jones Industrial fell 27 points to 12,817. The S&P 500 dropped 3 points to 1,340. The Nasdaq Composite declined 7 points to 2,894. Worries out of Europe pushed our... Read More

February 6, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower on Monday, with the S&P 500 retreating after a three-session winning run, as Greece struggled for agreement on spending cuts needed to get another round of rescue funds. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 46 points to 12,816. The S&P 500 Index shed 5 points... Read More

February 3, 2012

U.S. stocks leapt on Friday as Wall Street embraced employment rising more than expected last month and the jobless rate dropping to a three-year low. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 106 points to 12,811. The S&P 500 Index rose 11 points to 1,337. The Nasdaq Composite added 27... Read More

February 2, 2012

S&P futures vs fair value: +1.70. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +7.00. Stock futures suggest a flat start for today’s trade. The neutral tone comes as broad market participants shrug off a sizable batch of better-than-expected earnings results ahead of Fed Chairman Bernanke’s testimony at 10:00 AM ET and... Read More

February 1, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +9.00. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +11.00. Stocks are expected to start today’s trade with solid gains. The upward bias comes in response to renewed buying interest in Europe after struggling Portugal successfully auctioned off some short-term debt and continental constituents like... Read More

January 31, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +6.70. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +14.00. Stock futures suggest that the major equity averages will start today’s session in positive territory. Following three straight losses for the S&P 500 the bid has been helped by renewed buying abroad. Improved sentiment overseas... Read More

January 30, 2012

08:40 WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: -10.60. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: -20.50. Sellers continue to pressure stock futures. Today’s only dose of data hasn’t done anything to ease their efforts. Personal income increased by 0.5% during December. That bested the 0.4% increase that had been... Read More

January 27, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: -5.20. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: -3.30. News that fourth quarter GDP fell short of expectations has weighed on stock futures, such that a modestly lower start to the session is expected to position the broad market for its first weekly... Read More

January 26, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: +4.30. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +4.80. Stock futures continue to trade with modest strength following a couple of doses of data. Durable goods orders for December were up 3.0%, which is greater than the 2.0% increase that had been generally anticipated... Read More

January 25, 2012

WRAPX S&P futures vs fair value: -2.20. Nasdaq futures vs fair value: +24.80. Stock futures are mixed this morning as market participants respond to strong earnings from Apple (AAPL 451.90, +31.49) last evening. Yahoo! (YHOO 15.60, -0.09) was also out last evening with its earnings, which... Read More

January 25, 2012

WRAPX End of Day Summary: Market Marches Higher The broad market was able to fight through moderate selling pressure this morning, but gains didn’t come until after the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) issued its latest Policy Statement. The afternoon advance eventually gained enough momentum to take... Read More

January 25, 2012

WRAPX End of Day Summary: Market Marches Higher The broad market was able to fight through moderate selling pressure this morning, but gains didn’t come until after the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) issued its latest Policy Statement. The afternoon advance eventually gained enough momentum to take... Read More

January 24, 2012

U.S. stocks started lower on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 on the retreat after five days of gains, as talks to resolve Greece’s debt-swap issues floundered. “It’s still Greece, and really that hasn’t gone away at all,” said Paul Nolte, managing director at Dearborn Partners in Chicago. The Dow Jones... Read More

January 23, 2012

U.S. stock investors hit the pause button at the start of U.S trading Monday, sending blue-chips initially lower and with other major indexes waffling on either side of breakeven. The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened unchanged at 12,720. The Nasdaq Composite added a point to 2,788. The S&P 500 gained... Read More

January 20, 2012

U.S. stocks started off on a cautious note Friday, weighed by unease over Greek debt talks and some disappointing earnings, and after three straight days of gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 9 points to 12,633. The S&P 500 fell 3 points 1,312. The Nasdaq Composite lost... Read More

January 19, 2012

U.S. stocks started higher Thursday, helped by better-than-expected earnings, a drop in jobless claims, and good demand at European bond auctions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 17 points 12,596. The Nasdaq Composite gained 12 points to 2,782. The S&P 500 gained 4 points to 1,312. The earnings are... Read More

January 18, 2012

U.S. futures have pulled back from their early highs and are now showing modest gains (S&P futures +3, DJ futures +26). Futures have been fluctuating around reports regarding IMF proposals to increase their lending power, paring early gains as more information has been released. Early reports indicated that the... Read More

January 17, 2012

U.S. stocks advanced Tuesday, with equities rising along with the euro after Spain ‘s borrowing costs declined at an auction, denting worry about the nation’s ability to handle its debt. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 109 points to 12,531. The S&P 500 Index climbed 11 points to 1,301.... Read More

January 13, 2012

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower on Friday on reports of coming downgrades of euro-zone nations by rating agency Standard & Poor’s and disappointing earnings at JP Morgan. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 98 points to 12,373. The S&P 500 lost 9 points to 1,285. The Nasdaq Composite Index... Read More

January 12, 2012

U.S. stocks opened modestly lower on tepid retail sales in December and comments out of European regarding the risk of increased financial tensions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 8 points to 12,440. The S&P 500 fell a fraction to 1,292. The Nasdaq Composite inched up a point to 2,711.... Read More

January 11, 2012

U.S. stocks fell Wednesday, with the S&P 500 retreating from July highs, on concern Europe’s debt problems would curb the global economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 49 points to 12,413. The S&P 500 Index declined 5 points to 1,286. The Nasdaq Composite shed 4 points to 2,698. The... Read More

January 10, 2012

U.S. stocks opened strongly higher on Tuesday a day after aluminum producer Alcoa reported results that boosted sentiment about earnings ahead. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 108 points to 12,501. Alcoa is modestly higher. The S&P 500 gained 13 points to 1,294. The Nasdaq Composite gained 31 points to... Read More

January 9, 2012

U.S. stocks started slightly higher Monday, recovering from the prior session’s losses, as some pressure came off European debt markets and investors traded cautiously ahead of fourth-quarter earnings reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 11 points to 12,371, led by a 1.3% gain in Alcoa ahead of earnings tonight.... Read More

January 6, 2012

U.S. stocks opened mixed to mildly lower on Friday, with the better-than-expected December payrolls report getting a muted response from Wall Street. “Expectations were raised after the ADP number yesterday, and eyes are still on Europe” and the possible global impact of the region’s debt troubles, said Brad Sorensen,... Read More

January 5, 2012

U.S. stocks opened lower on Thursday as an improving U.S. labor market helped stem, but not override, worries about Europe’s debt troubles. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped a quick 77 points to 12,341. The S&P 500 dropped 6 points to 1,270. The Nasdaq Composite fell nearly two points to... Read More

January 4, 2012

U.S. stocks open modestly lower following a strong start to the year on Tuesday that left the Dow Jones Industrial Average at a five-month high. The Dow fell 24 points on the open to 12,372. The S&P 500 declined 4 points to 1,272. The Nasdaq Composite dropped 13 points to... Read More

January 3, 2012

U.S. stocks opened the first session of 2012 in rally mode, with Wall Street optimistic after positive manufacturing data from China, and strong gains across the pond. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 156 points, or 1.3%, to 12,403. The S&P 500 rose 20 points, or 1.6%, to 1,278. The... Read More

December 30, 2011

U.S. stocks began the final trading day of the year mildly lower with Europe’s troubles in view. Ahead of Friday’s opening bell, Spain’s new government unveiled austerity measures and said it expects a 2011 budget gap of nearly 8%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 12 points to 12,274. The... Read More

December 29, 2011

U.S. stocks opened higher Thursday, recovering some of the prior day’s losses, thanks to a dip in Italian borrowing costs at a debt auction and U.S. jobless claims came in at 381,000, up from 366,000 the prior week. After dropping 139 points on Wednesday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped... Read More

December 28, 2011

U.S. stocks opened mildly lower Wednesday as the end of year draws to a close. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 19 points to 12,271. The S&P 500 Index shed 3 points to 1,262. The Nasdaq Composite declined 10 points to 2,615. Shortly after the open, the Euro sold off... Read More

December 27, 2011

A quiet start to the last week of the year following the extended holiday weekend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 19 points to 12,274. The S&P 500 Index dropped 2 points to 1,262. The Nasdaq Composite shed 7 points to 2,611. The averages are set to close pretty much... Read More

December 23, 2011

U.S. stocks opened with modest gains Friday after economic data had durable goods rising in November by the most in four months. A separate report had consumer spending rising less than forecast last month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 13 points to 1,2182. The S&P 500 added 2 points... Read More

December 22, 2011

U.S. stocks opened with modest gains Thursday after the government reported jobless claims fell last week to their lowest level since 2008. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 27 points to 12,134. The S&P 500 Index rose 4 points to 1,247. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 13 points to 2,591. No... Read More

December 21, 2011

U.S. stocks began with modest declines on Wednesday after the European Central Bank said it would lend a record amount to euro-area banks causing concerns once again in Europe. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 36 points to 12,066. The S&P 500 declined 4 points to 1,236. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

December 20, 2011

U.S. stocks surged at the open Tuesday, supported by a better Spanish bond auction, data showing an improvement in the German economic outlook and a jump in U.S. housing starts. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rallied 218 points, or 1.9%, to 11,984. Cisco led gains for all 30 Dow components.... Read More

December 19, 2011

U.S. stocks gained Monday, recouping part of last week’s losses, as investors anticipated the next round of Europe headlines in what’s likely to be a low-volume trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 44 points to 11,910. The S&P 500 gained 4 points to 1,224. The Nasdaq Composite rose... Read More

December 16, 2011

U.S. stocks open higher after a report showed the cost of living held flat in November, bolstering the Federal Reserve’s take that inflation is not an issue now for the U.S. economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 92 points to 11,961. The S&P 500 added 10 points to 1,226.... Read More

December 16, 2011

U.S. stocks open higher after a report showed the cost of living held flat in November, bolstering the Federal Reserve’s take that inflation is not an issue now for the U.S. economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 92 points to 11,961. The S&P 500 added 10 points to 1,226.... Read More

December 15, 2011

U.S. stocks started higher Thursday, rebounding from the prior session’s decline and helped by better U.S. jobs data and some improvement in European bond markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 118 points, or 1%, to 11,941. The S&P 500 gained 12 points to 1,224. The Nasdaq Composite rose 22... Read More

December 14, 2011

U.S. stocks opened lower on Wednesday, extending losses into a third day, as Italy’s borrowing costs rose to a record after Italy’s auction of five-year debt and the euro broke 11-month lows against the dollar. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 38 points to 11,916. The S&P 500 Index declined... Read More

December 13, 2011

U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday, with sentiment lifted after a successful government debt auction in Spain and upbeat economic data from Germany. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 108 points to 12,129. Boeing looks good after hiking their dividend yesterday and an upgrade this morning. The S&P 500 Index... Read More

December 12, 2011

U.S. stocks opened sharply lower on Monday after Moody’s Investors Service said it would review the ratings of countries in the euro area and Intel trimmed its fourth-quarter revenue outlook. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 113 points to 12,070. The S&P 500 Index shed 14 points to 1,240. The... Read More

December 9, 2011

U.S. stocks climbed on Friday, with financial companies pacing the gains, after European leaders agreed to closer fiscal ties and other measures to tackle the region’s debt crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 77 points to 12,075. The S&P 500 Index added 8 points to 1,243. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

December 8, 2011

U.S. stocks opened with moderate losses on Thursday after European Central Bank President Mario Draghi threw cold water on thinking the central bank would boost its purchases of the debt of hard-pressed European nations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 25 points to 12,170. The S&P 500 lost 6 points... Read More

December 7, 2011

After bouncing up against resistance levels, the major averages are succumbing to profit-taking as Germany is rejecting the notion of combining the current and permanent euro-area rescue funds. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 72 points to 12,077. The S&P 500 Index dropped 9 points to 1,248. The Nasdaq Composite... Read More

December 6, 2011

U.S. stocks began mildly higher on Tuesday following comments from Standard and Poor’s putting a majority of the European sovereign countries on credit watch negative put a damper on the recent rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 12 points to 12,110. 3M is higher after reaffirming guidance. The S&P... Read More

December 5, 2011

U.S. stocks rallied at the start on Monday as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy addressed a news conference to push their plan for better enforcement of the region’s deficit rules. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 137 points to 12,156.79. The S&P 500 Index rose 16... Read More

December 2, 2011

U.S. stocks opened higher on Friday after monthly data showed the U.S. jobless rate fell to a two-and-a-half year low. Comments from Angela Merkel reiterating Germany’s strong backing for the euro is also lending support. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 91 points to 12,111. The S&P 500 added 11... Read More

December 1, 2011

After a three day 800 point rally, the U.S. stocks are lower this morning with financials leading the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 36 points to 12,009. The S&P 500 declined 3 points to 1,243. The Nasdaq Composite shed 5 points to 2,614. The financials are all lower,... Read More

November 30, 2011

U.S. stocks rallied Wednesday after the Federal Reserve and five other central banks together moved to ease the flow of funds to banks hit by Europe’s debt crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 333 points to 11,888. The S&P 500 Index climbed 37 points to 1,232, with industrials leading... Read More

November 30, 2011

U.S. futures and global equity markets are sharply higher after major central bank liquidity actions were announced this morning. The biggest of these was the coordinated coordinated action between the Fed and five other central banks to address pressures in global money markets (see 8:01 comment for details). These major... Read More

November 29, 2011

U.S. stocks offered a tepid start on Tuesday ahead of a meeting of European finance ministers on the region’s credit crisis. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 9 points to 11,532. The S&P 500 Index opened flat at 1,192. The Nasdaq Composite fell 5 points to 2,521. The news hasn’t... Read More