At the halfway point of the trading day, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI 0.26%) was down 56 points (-0.42%) to 13,458. The S&P 500 (^GSPC 0.61%) is down one point (-0.1%) to 1,443.
The markets are falling on reports that Spain is seeking a bailout from the EU, but Germany has asked Spain to hold off. A bailout of Spain would be a good thing, but the question of whether it will happen is making investors nervous. It's also raining in New York City, which pushes down the market.
The markets as a whole are down, but a few are resisting the downward slide.
Today's Dow leaders
Today's Dow leader is Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), up 0.39% ($0.12) to $29.61. The company is gearing up for the Windows 8 launch later this month. Last week Intel created a stir when a report came out that CEO Paul Otellini reportedly bashed Windows 8 at an internal meeting in Taipei. The company has since put out a press release denying the report.
Fool analyst Eric Bleeker took a look at the growing rift between Microsoft and Intel. Click here for his take.
Next up is UnitedHealth Group (UNH +1.80%), up 0.3% ($0.17) to $56.63. The managed-care industry is up as a whole. The only specific news to report is that UnitedHealth competitor WellPoint announced a sale of $1.35 billion of convertible debt. The managed-care industry is largely immune to the trials and tribulations of Europe, moving more with the industry regulation.
Fool analyst Amanda Alix recently took a closer look at UnitedHealth. Click here for her take.
Third for the day is 3M (MMM +1.38%), up 0.16% ($0.15) to $93.44. Yesterday 3M announced it is acquiring Ceradyne for a 40% premium. Ceradyne is a leader in the advanced-ceramics industry. Advanced ceramics are used for everything from corrosion and heat resistance to armor.
Fool analysts Isaac Pino and Blake Bos took a look at the merger and what it means for 3M investors; click here for their take.
The best approach
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