Auto, truck, and chain store sales will be announced. New Year's Eve ushers in 2013 with adult beverages. Mosaic and Family Dollar report earnings.
Investors haven't been as keen on the sector as value-conscious shoppers.
Stocks are higher amid optimism that budget negotiations between the White House and Republicans have progressed behind closed doors.
During volatile times, investors should err on the side of caution.
The retail giant's plans to roll out more of its 'neighborhood markets' could be bad news for urban bargain shops.
Despite the recent pullback, it's the go-to stock in the deep-discount retail niche.
Zynga downgraded to 'neutral,' and First Solar is downgraded to 'negative.'
Stocks rise as ADP's estimate of private-sector hiring came in better than expected.
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TOP STOCKS
The Dow jumps nearly 140 points ahead of a big Federal Reserve decision on interest rates. Crude oil closes above $98.
MARKET DISPATCHES
The Market Dispatches column has been discontinued. Here's where to find the latest stock and business news on MSN Money, and the latest from market writer Charley Blaine.
FRUGAL COOL
Starting Monday, this site is joining forces with MSN Money Smart Spending. Here's why.
MONEY & POLITICS
Breaking up big banks is an untested solution to the too big to fail problem that attempts to isolate and dismantle large, troubled institutions while protecting the rest of the economy.
SMART SPENDING
A single mom who says she was forced to accept a fee-heavy 'payroll card' instead of a check or direct deposit is taking a McDonald's franchise to court.
SMART TAXES
The IRS is struggling to combat identify thieves who file fraudulent tax returns in the names of older residents who don't need to file.
