U.S. stock indexes drifted to a mixed close following more reports showing the economy remains stronger than expected.
The S&P 500 index fell 0.2% Thursday. The slight dip sent it to a fifth straight loss for its longest such streak since October. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged up by 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.5% following a mixed set of profit reports from big companies.
Treasury yields rose following the stronger-than-expected economic data. Not only is the number of layoffs across the country remaining relatively low, an index of manufacturing in the mid-Atlantic region showed growth unexpectedly accelerated.
On Thursday:
The S&P 500 fell 11.09 points, or 0.2%, to 5,011.12.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 22.07 points, or 0.1%, to 37,775.38.
The Nasdaq composite fell 81.87 points, or 0.5%, to 15,601.50.
The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies fell 4.99 points, or 0.3%, to 1,942.96.
With QB Cousins joining strong foundation on offense, Falcons may target edge rusher in NFL draft
China's Tianjin launches 1st roadway for intelligent connected vehicles
Italy's fashion brands have Chinese connection
Stefan Frei makes 300th regular season appearance for Sounders in 0
Republicans file lawsuit challenging Evers's partial vetoes to literacy bill
Harvest of renowned Longjing tea begins in east China
China shortens infectious disease reporting time to four hours
China to build pilot zones for special needs education reform
Natalie Portman shows Benjamin Millepied what he's missing in sexy see
China's express delivery sector sees double