Weekly Market Commentary:

Stocks finished the week lower, as a host of generally upbeat economic reports did little to add any bullish enthusiasm to Friday's light-volume trading session. It seems most of Wall Street's best and brightest decided to head for the holiday hills a day early.

The Dow Jones Industrials lost 102.30 (-0.82%) to finish the pre-Christmas holiday trading at 12,343.22, while the S&P 500 surrendered 16.33 (-1.14%) to close at 1,410.76. The Nasdaq Composite fared worse, losing 56.02 (-2.28%) to close at 2.401.18 while the Russell 2000 gave up 11.89 (-1.50%) and finished at 780.82.

Before Friday's open, the Commerce Department reported durable goods orders rose 1.9% in November, 0.7% higher than most economists had predicted. The personal consumption expenditure core rate, a key stat in the Fed's anti-inflation fight, was unchanged. While inflation remains in check, it is still widely viewed that the Fed will continue to stand down on further interest rate increases.

The direction of next week's holiday shortened trading week will be most shaped by the following economic reports. Wednesday's new home sales and Thursday's existing home sales reports will be followed by consumer confidence numbers Thursday, and Friday's Chicago purchasing managers report.

The OTC Digest would like to extend our sincere best wishes to everyone for a safe and fun-filled Happy Holiday Season!

Our best wishes to all and to all a good night! (And STAY TUNED!)