NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks are edging higher on reports that indicate the economy is extending a modest recovery.
Business at the nation’s service companies grew and factory orders rose in April. But the numbers Thursday have fallen short of economists’ expectations. Reports on jobs and productivity released before the start of trading were mixed.
Retailers have reported uneven sales for May, a sign that consumers remain cautious.
The modest gains in the market come a day after a rally that sent the Dow Jones industrials up 225 points.
At midday, the Dow is up 10 at 10,259. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index is up 3 at 1,101, while the Nasdaq composite index is up 13 at 2,295.
