The main US stock indexes finished trading in negative territory

The main US stock indexes fell slightly, departing from the next record highs, which was due to the fall in shares of the commodity sector against the backdrop of lower oil prices. Investors also focused on reports from UnitedHealth (UNH) and Citigroup (C).

In addition, the results of research published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York showed that the region's production index fell in January, while the average forecasts of economists assumed that the index will remain at the same level. According to the data, the production index in the current month fell to +17.7 points compared to +18 points in December. Previous value was not revised. Recall, the index is built on the basis of survey results of top managers. The indicator reflects the situation in the production orders segment and business optimism in the business environment.

Most components of the DOW index recorded a decline (16 out of 30). Outsider were shares of General Electric Company (GE, -3.44%). Leader of the growth were shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK, + 6.12%).

Most S & P sectors ended the session in negative territory. The largest decrease was in the commodity sector (-1.2%). The conglomerate sector grew most (+ 0.4%).

At closing:

DJIA -0.04% 25.792.86 -10.33

Nasdaq -0.51% 7,224.00 -37.00

S & P -0.35% 2,776.44 -9.80