Maybe it's the summer heat, but the markets seem stuck in limbo. Uncertainty from the Federal Reserve, Europe, and China continue to keep day-to-day activity low, with the S&P 500
On the day, a few minor storylines drove prices slightly. The U.S. Commerce Department revealed that retail sales dropped 0.5% in June after a 0.2% loss in May. The news surprised analysts, who expected a 0.2% increase, and shows continued struggles for the American economy. The overall market being 70% consumer-driven, shares understandably dropped after the report. In the meantime, the IMF slashed its growth forecast, fearing that Europe could stunt growth in emerging markets.
Headlines like today's will continue to play a minor role against the major headlines concerning problems in the global economies. Until these stories see some closure, investors are not likely to take a definitive stance. However, a few individual stocks continue to see daily swings. Here are the big winners and losers on the day.
Surging
No stock came close to First Solar
Oil stocks also spiked across the board today because oil prices also jumped, and Phillips 66
Lurching
None of the S&P components took the hit as hard as Alpha Natural Resources
Broad industry factors and a BMO downgrade tripped shares of Dean Foods
Investor takeaway
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