Stocks rally strongly after the government says 163,000 jobs were added to the economy, more than expected. Kraft and HP lead the Dow; Procter & Gamble sets a share buyback program. LinkedIn's guidance impresses. Gold and oil push higher.
The Dow and S&P 500 move lower, but the major indexes are enjoying their best week since 2009. Big Thanksgiving promotions worked for many retailers. Automakers report strong November sales. Oil briefly falls below $100.
The blues chips have their best close since June 2008. Gold's finish is a record, and silver jumps above $46. General Electric, Verizon and McDonald's results don't impress. Biogen Idec says a multiple-sclerosis drug has promise.
The Empire State Manufacturing index drops 3 points, coming up short of expectations.
The 2 reports offer hints of more economic bottoming.
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