But Amazon.com shares slump as revenue misses estimates. Chicago purchasing managers are less optimistic. Home prices drop to 2003 levels. Exxon and Radio Shack earnings disappoint. Mattel cheers.
A volatile 2011 may lead to a repeat performance in 2012. Investors may see some of that volatility in the week ahead. Important reports are due on jobs, manufacturing and auto sales.
Almost no mutual fund managers have been able to protect Americans from losses in the stock market during this year's volatile trading.
Spooked by a severe market slump and the first downgrade of US credit, investors are on pace to redeem record amounts.
A portfolio of master limited partnerships that yields roughly 6% is there for the asking.
The Federal Reserve's rate-making body will certainly promise Tuesday to keep rates low. It may hint at another program to boost the economy, but don't look for a blockbuster move.
Faith in Treasurys remains strong as investors seek out safer assets.
While the Dow ends up 61, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq end lower. Stocks get a lift from possible ECB help for Spain and Italy. But investors are clearly worried about the US economy and Europe. Oil rises; gold slips.
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