U.S. stocks sink on home construction decline

Date: Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:00:55 -0500

U.S. stocks sink on home construction decline

U.S. stocks fall Wednesday on disappointing earnings guidance from the
technology sector and an unexpected decline in home construction and building
permits.

GOLD FUTURES SOAR TO RECORD ABOVE $1,150/OZ

Gold futures storm past $1,150 an ounce for the first time before
pulling back modestly, as the dollar falls against other major
currencies and effectively
enhances the precious metal's investment appeal.

HOUSING STARTS STAGE BROAD RETREAT IN OCTOBER

In a blow to the optimism that had surrounded the housing sector in recent
months, housing starts drop sharply in October to their lowest level in six
months, the Commerce Department reports.

HOME BUILDERS STILL IRRITABLE, SURVEY SAYS

U.S. home builders remain discouraged about their business in November, but are
a bit more hopeful about future sales, according to a monthly survey released
by the National Association of Home Builders.

CONSUMER PRICES UP 0.3%, LED BY ENERGY, CARS

U.S. inflation accelerated in October as energy prices rose again and car
prices increased at the fastest pace since the early 1980s, the government
reports.