stocks

U.S. stocks headed for a moderately lower open Wednesday as oil prices fell and investors awaited a key reading on inflation.

Stocks fell in Asia and Europe and the euro hit a record high against the dollar amid concerns about the global financial system.

"The answers provided by almost everyone of whom I ask this question are almost unanimous: The stock market does better under Republican presidents...

They're wrong. "

The S. & P. index fell 2.3 percent, entering its first official bear market since 2002. The Dow was down 2.1 percent.

Stocks headed for a higher open Wednesday, with investors heartened by better-than-expected earnings from Alcoa Inc. but still nervous about oil prices.

Stocks fell as oil rose above $145 a barrel for the first time.

Wall Street appeared headed for a sluggish start to the third quarter, hurt by concerns about the effect of rising oil prices on the economy.

Stocks advanced modestly Wednesday as investors awaited the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates and policymakers' take on the economy.

U.S. stocks headed for a higher open Wednesday as investors awaited economic reports and the Federal Reserve's latest decision on interest rates.

While the indicator is that we are likely nine months from tangible evidence of a turn-around, keeping an eye on builder stocks as a conduit for the thought process of investors is a key element when making a decision to buy, sell, or wait.