The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) erased last week's losses today -- and muscled back into positive year-to-date territory -- as the dollar reversed sharply lower. In fact, by session's end, the blue-chip barometer was again within striking distance of the 18,000 millennium level. The gains came despite crude's drop to six-year lows, a generally disappointing round of economic data, and uncertainty ahead of tomorrow's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting -- which will culminate in a highly anticipated policy update on Wednesday afternoon.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Will a strong dollar derail the bull market? Schaeffer's Senior VP of Research Todd Salamone serves up 3 questions for U.S. investors.
• It was a big day for biotechs, including rivals Amgen, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMGN) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:REGN).
• This new member of the S&P 500 Index (SPX) surged to a record high, following positive analyst attention.
• Plus ... Manufacturing output and homebuilder sentiment disappoint, three companies headed to the earnings confessional, and this semiconductor stock takes it on the chin.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,977.42) jumped out of the gate and never looked back, adding 228.1 points, or 1.3%. At its session peak, the Dow was 11.5 points from the 18,000 marker. Twenty-eight of the Dow's 30 components ended above the flatline, paced by a 2.8% gain at UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH). DuPont (NYSE:DD) and Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) were the two losers, down 4.3% and 0.3%, respectively.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,081.19) advanced 27.8 points, or 1.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,929.51) tacked on 57.8 points, or 1.2%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.61) skidded to a 0.4-point, or 2.4%, loss. However, the market's "fear gauge" appeared to find a foothold at its 10-day moving average, located at 15.30.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Output among vehicle manufacturers weighed on U.S. industrial production, which unexpectedly suffered its third straight monthly decline in February. Meanwhile, overall capacity utilization retreated to 78.9% from 79.1%, bucking expectations for a rise to 79.5%. (CNBC)
2. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) housing market index posted its third consecutive monthly drop this month, giving back 2 points to 53, from the February's reading of 55. Economists had expected the index to rise to 56. (Reuters)
3. How might these three stocks be impacted by tomorrow night's round of earnings reports?
4. Find out why this gaming stock sank to a fresh annual low.
5. The weekend tweet that excited Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) traders.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Oil settled at its lowest level in six years, as worries continued to mount over growing U.S. stockpiles. Despite forecasts for U.S. output reduction from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the April-dated contracted slid 96 cents, or 2.1%, to close at $43.88 per barrel.

Gold managed a third straight daily gain, boosted by a weaker dollar. Specifically, gold for April delivery added 80 cents, or 0.1%, to land at $1,153.20 per ounce.

After enjoying a brief respite north of its 2015 breakeven mark, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) took a turn for the worse -- succumbing to a triple-digit loss, and moving back into the red on a year-to-date basis. What's more, the blue-chip barometer notched its third straight weekly loss. Sparking the day's risk-off attitude was a renewed rally in the dollar, a steep sell-off in oil, and a round of uninspiring economic reports -- which hit the Street just ahead of next week's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) policy-setting meeting. Elsewhere, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) couldn't sustain its historical Friday the 13th trend, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) fell in step with its peers.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Call players blitzed Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P) and its fellow Nasdaq component amid buyout buzz.
• CNBC's Jim Cramer took aim at this struggling oil name and this outperforming drugmaker.
• Is there a way to safely short volatility? Schaeffer's contributor Adam Warner investigates.
• Plus ... U.S. consumers sour, the FCC puts a highly watched merger on hold, and the oil name sinking to fresh six-year lows.

Outside of a brief tick higher at the open, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,749.31) spent the entire session below breakeven. At its intraday low, the blue-chip barometer was off 265.3 points, before paring these losses to 145.9 points, or 0.8%. Twenty-one of the Dow's 30 components headed south, with International Business Machines Corp.'s (NYSE:IBM) 2.3% loss leading the way. Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) partially recovered from yesterday's slide to pace the seven advancers with its 0.9% gain, while Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) were unchanged. For the week, the DJI surrendered 0.6%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,053.40) gave back 12.6 points, or 0.6%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,871.76) shed 21.5 points, or 0.4%. Week-over-week, the SPX and COMP lost 0.9% and 1.1%, respectively.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.00) added 0.6 point, or 3.8%. On a weekly basis, the market's "fear gauge" tacked on 5.3%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Inflation remained muted in February, with the producer price index (PPI) dropping 0.5% -- its fourth straight monthly decline -- versus an expected rise of 0.3%. Elsewhere, consumers in the low- to middle-income range soured on the U.S economy in March, while sentiment among those in the higher-income bracket rose. Specifically, the preliminary Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment index fell to 91.2 from its February reading of 95.4 -- and arrived below the consensus estimate of 95.5. (Bloomberg; Reuters)
2. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) called timeout on its review of the proposed merger between Time Warner Cable Inc (NYSE:TWC) and Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA), as well as AT&T Inc.'s (NYSE:T) bid for DIRECTV (NASDAQ:DTV). Regulators say they need to hear court rulings regarding programming contracts for other media outlets before they can decide on the deals. (Bloomberg)
3. It was a rough day for energy names, and Seadrill Ltd (NYSE:SDRL) was no exception. The stock tumbled to a fresh multi-year low, but options traders think the worst is yet to come.
4. Jefferies weighed in on drugmakers Anacor Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:ANAC) and BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (NASDAQ:BMRN).
5. Eleventh-hour bears took aim at LinkedIn Corp (NYSE:LNKD), amid the stock's end-of-week slump.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecast for a global oil glut -- as well as a strengthening greenback -- sent crude decidedly lower today. By the close, crude for April delivery was off $2.21, or 4.7%, at $44.84 per barrel -- its lowest settlement since Jan. 28. Week-over-week, black gold surrendered 9.6%.

Gold, however, managed to buck the rallying dollar -- and finish higher for a second straight session. At session's end, gold for April delivery was up 50 cents at $1,152.40 per ounce. For the week, the malleable metal gave back 1% -- its sixth weekly loss in seven.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) not only erased its steep weekly deficit, but also moved back into the black on a year-to-date basis, as the dollar retreated from 12-year highs and uninspiring economic data chilled expectations for a rate hike. Also boosting the blue-chip index was a big rally for Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS), as well as strong gains for financial firms following the results from the second round of the Fed's annual stress tests. The burst of buying power was witnessed elsewhere on the Street, with the S&P 500 Index (SPX) also reclaiming a perch north of its 2015 breakeven mark, and the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) popping 0.9%.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• A forecast-related swoon for Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) pressured shares of this fellow blue-chip tech name lower.
• A bullish brokerage note sent this drugmaker soaring, while a pair of poorly received fundamental developments sent its sector peer plunging.
• 3 notable names headed to the earnings confessional.
• Plus ... Wall Street gets hit with a slew of economic data, Disney unveils big plans, and another volatile day for Lumber Liquidators Holdings Inc (NYSE:LL).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,895.22) hit the ground running today, eventually closing near its intraday highs -- up 259.8 points, or 1.5%. Of the Dow's 30 components, 26 settled in positive territory, led by a 4.2% pop for DIS. INTC paced the four decliners with its 4.7% drop.

In similar fashion, the S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,065.95) spent the entire session above breakeven, settling up 25.7 points, or 1.3%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,893.29) added 43.4 points, or 0.9%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.42) surrendered its short-term foothold above 16, shedding 1.5 points, or 8.6%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Severe winter weather caused retail sales to decline for a third straight month in February -- specifically, dropping 0.6% versus an expected 0.4% rise. Elsewhere, weekly jobless claims declined, falling back below the highly watched 300,000 mark; after shrinking for seven straight months, import prices rose in February; business inventories were flat, while the inventory-to-sales ratio jumped to its loftiest perch in five years; and, the budget deficit dropped to $192 billion last month. (USA Today; MarketWatch; Business Insider; Reuters, via CNBC)
2. Speaking at the company's annual shareholder meeting, DIS CEO Bob Iger said the firm has plans to release a spin-off for the "Star Wars" series, as well as a sequel to the highly successful "Frozen" film. (CNBC)
3. LL jumped nearly 10.2% today, after the company insisted its products were safe, and offered free indoor quality testing to its customers. Month-to-date, though, the shares have shed 30% amid reports to the contrary.
4. Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) managed to rebound from its early INTC-related losses, and options traders responded in kind.
5. The Wall Street freshman that got crushed in the wake of its inaugural earnings report.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil took a hit today, after a shipping channel reopened in Houston -- stoking fears of growing inventories. By the close, April-dated crude was off $1.12, or 2.3%, at $47.05 per barrel -- its lowest settlement in six weeks.

Gold bounced back from Wednesday's loss as the dollar retreated from 12-year-high territory. At session's end, gold for April delivery was up $1.30, or 0.1%, at $1,151.90 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) spent time on both sides of breakeven today, as traders continued to monitor a soaring greenback -- and express concern over an impending interest-rate hike. Some clarity on the latter could come as early as next week, when the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) holds its two-day policy-setting meeting. After trading in a roughly 100-point range, the blue-chip barometer couldn't hold above breakeven, and notched its second consecutive daily loss. In tomorrow's session, retailers will be in the limelight, with monthly sales data slated for release.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Options traders took aim at Mylan Inc (NASDAQ:MYL) and bluebird bio Inc (NASDAQ:BLUE) amid their record-setting runs.
• The rumor mill sent BlackBerry Ltd (NASDAQ:BBRY) and Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) higher -- and call players flooding into the equities' options pits.
• In case you missed it, Schaeffer's Senior Quantitative Analyst Rocky White crunches the numbers to see if this bull market has legs.
• Plus ... A big pharma showdown, Ukraine gets a helping hand, and a six-figure bearish bet on General Motors Company (NYSE:GM).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,635.39) was seen on both sides of breakeven today, eventually settling with a loss of 27.6 points, or 0.2%. Of the Dow's 30 components, 18 closed lower, led by a 1.5% drop for The Coca-Cola Co (NYSE:KO). INTC paced the 12 advancers with its 2% gain.

Likewise, the S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,040.24) explored both positive and negative territory in intraday action, before closing at a 3.9-point, or 0.2%, loss. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,849.94), meanwhile, gave back 9.9 points, or 0.2%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.87) added 0.2 point, or 1.1%, but ran into resistance at its 50-day moving average.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Roughly two weeks after Valeant Pharmaceuticals Intl Inc (NYSE:VRX) finalized a $10.1 billion deal to purchase Salix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SLXP), Endo International plc (NASDAQ:ENDP) raised the stakes. Specifically, ENDP offered up a roughly $11 billion cash-and-stock bid for SLXP. (Reuters)
2. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) passed through a $17.5 billion aid package for Ukraine today, with $5 billion immediately available to the war-torn nation. The four-year loan package replaces a previous two-year loan agreement, and "will provide more funding, more time, more flexibility, and better financing terms for Ukraine," said IMF chief Christine Lagarde in a statement. (Bloomberg)
3. Breaking down the six-figure bearish bet on GM.
4. The medical device maker assailing new heights after an earnings beat.
5. How option traders reacted to new investments for Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL).

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil headed south thanks to a rising dollar, and a stronger-than-forecast rise in weekly inventories. By the close, crude for April delivery was down 12 cents, or 0.3%, at $48.17 per barrel -- its lowest settlement since Feb. 26.

Gold closed lower for a second straight session, amid a strengthening greenback and speculation of higher interest rates. At session's end, April-dated gold was off $9.50, or 0.8%, at $1,150.60 per ounce -- its lowest close since Nov. 6.

It was quite a day for the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI), which was up more than 216 points at the close -- easily erasing yesterday's loss -- thanks to strong quarterly earnings reactions for 3M Co (NYSE:MMM) and Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT). This burst of buying power was witnessed elsewhere, as well, with the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite adding 1.2% and 1.6%, respectively. What's more, all three major market indexes are on pace to snap their four-week losing streaks.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Weekly option traders took the skeptical route on Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) ahead of tonight's quarterly earnings report.
• Infinera Corp.'s (NASDAQ:INFN) nearly 31% earnings-induced rally was not enough to satisfy option bulls, who called for more upside over the next several months.
• Barclays took the high road on Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) ahead of the company's inaugural earnings announcement.
• Plus ... MMM steals the show, weekly jobless claims paint a mixed picture, and King Digital Entertainment PLC (NYSE:KING) stages an unconvincing bounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,677.90) took off right at the open, and remained comfortably higher throughout the day. At its session high, the blue-chip barometer was up more than 300 points, before paring these gains to 216.6 points, or 1.3%, by the close. Of the DJI's 30 components, 26 finished in the green, led by CAT's 5% rally, while AT&T Inc.'s (NYSE:T) 2.4% drop paced the four decliners.

In similar fashion, the S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,950.82) spent the entire session in the green, and settled up 23.7 points, or 1.2%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,452.79) put in the best performance of its peers, tacking on 70 points, or 1.6%.

Amid today's broad-market rally, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.53) gave back 1.3 points, or 7.5%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. MMM put in a strong showing against its fellow Dow components, after reporting a better-than-expected third-quarter profit of $1.98 per share. Sales, meanwhile, arrived at $8.1 billion -- slightly below the consensus estimate of $8.2 billion. The maker of Post-It notes also narrowed its full-year per-share profit forecast to $7.40 to $7.50 from its previous range of $7.30 to $7.55. (Reuters)
2. In the wake of strong purchasing managers index (PMI) data from overseas, a similar report for the U.S. showed Markit's flash reading fell to a three-month low in October. Elsewhere, weekly jobless claims edged higher last week -- but remained near 14-year-lows, and below the all-important 300,000 threshold. (MarketWatch; FOX Business)
3. KING took a bounce -- but was it of the dead-cat variety?
4. 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) got smacked with a round of bearish brokerage attention, following its nearly 16% plunge.
5. Blue chips weren't the only ones getting a post-earnings boost, with Nokia Corporation (ADR) (NYSE:NOK) and Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO) rallying in the wake of their results.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil turned higher today, amid reports that Saudi Arabia is cutting production. By the close, the December-dated contract was up $1.57, or 1.9%, to $82.09 per barrel.

Gold tumbled amid today's risk-on rally, with gold for December delivery giving back $16.40, or 1.3%, to settle at $1,229.10 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) spent some time above the flatline in early trading, but a poorly received earnings report for The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA), a shooting in Canada's capital, and a slump in energy prices quickly took the wind out of the bulls' sail. In fact, crude settled at its lowest level since June 2012, after the Energy Information Administration (EIA) showed inventories surged last week by a much higher-than-expected amount. Despite a 153-point loss for the blue-chip barometer, it was still able to maintain a hefty portion of yesterday's massive gain.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Options traders bet on a quick breakout for Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) and Bank of America Corp (NYSE:BAC).
• Cree, Inc. (NASDAQ:CREE) and 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) were plagued by earnings-induced troubles.
• What prompted the steep sell-offs in Biogen Idec Inc (NASDAQ:BIIB), Himax Technologies, Inc. (ADR) (NASDAQ:HIMX), and Boulder Brands Inc (NASDAQ:BDBD)?
• Plus ... Ottawa goes on lockdown, inflation remains tame, and BlackBerry Ltd's (NASDAQ:BBRY) big week gets the Street's attention.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,461.32) traded in a 194-point range today -- spending time on both sides of breakeven -- before eventually closing near its session lows, down 153.5 points, or 0.9%. Of the Dow's 30 components, 24 finished in the red, led by BA's 4.5% plunge. Travelers Companies Inc (NYSE:TRV), meanwhile, paced the six advancers with a 1.4% pop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,927.11) also finished near its session nadir, settling with a 14.2-point, or 0.7%, loss. Likewise, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,382.85) ended the day 36.6 points, or 0.8%, lower.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 17.87) spent a portion of the day in the red, but switched routes mid-morning, following a bounce off its 40-day moving average. By the time the dust settled, the market's "fear gauge" had tacked on 1.8 points, or 11.1% -- and moved back into the black on a month-to-date basis.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. A shooting in Ottawa this morning had several Parliament buildings -- and the U.S. Embassy -- on lockdown. At last check, police in Canada's capital were searching for multiple suspects involved with the shooting, which left one member of the Canadian Forces dead. (Bloomberg)
2. Consumer prices edged up by a higher-than-expected 0.1% in September, according to data released by the Labor Department. Excluding food and energy, the core consumer price index (CPI) also rose by 0.1%, after being flat the month before. (CNBC)
3. Wall Street weighed in amid BBRY's big week.
4. 3 stocks that bucked today's bearish bias -- including one that doubled in value.
5. Put volume exploded on Caesars Entertainment Corp (NASDAQ:CZR), Nokia Corporation (ADR) (NYSE:NOK), and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:WWE), ahead of their respective turns in the earnings confessional.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

A much larger-than-expected rise in inventories sent crude oil plunging today. At the close, crude for December delivery was down $1.97, or 2.4%, to settle at $80.52 per barrel -- its lowest finish since June 2012.

Tepid inflation data and a rising dollar pressured gold today, with the December-dated contract shedding $6.20, or 0.5%, to close at $1,245.50 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) stair-stepped higher as the session progressed, lifted by data out of China and stimulus chatter in Europe, as well as an upbeat report on U.S. housing. However, it was the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite (COMP) that stole the spotlight today, gapping higher out of the gate on an earnings win from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL). By the close, the Dow tacked on 215 points -- and climbed back into the black for 2014 -- the COMP advanced triple digits, and the S&P 500 Index (SPX) clawed atop its closely watched 200-day moving average.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Options were in demand after Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) confirmed its inaugural earnings release.
• Taking the temperature of analysts and options traders ahead of Ford Motor Company's (NYSE:F) own earnings report.
• How one of the biggest buyouts ever fell to pieces.
• Plus ... A shot in the arm for housing, high hopes for stimulus across the pond, and Microsoft Corporation's (NASDAQ:MSFT) contribution to the Ebola campaign.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,614.81) blazed a steady path higher throughout the day, eventually settling near an intraday high, up 215.1 points, or 1.3%. The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO) led the three blue-chip decliners, surrendering 6% in the wake of a lackluster earnings report. Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) paced the advancing majority, tacking on 3.3%. For the year, the Dow is now sitting on a 0.2% gain.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,941.28) enjoyed its best session of the year, tacking on 37.3 points, or 2%, to end atop its 200-day trendline for the first time since Oct. 10. In its best session of the year, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,419.48) outperformed its peers, gaining 103.4 points, or 2.4%, to end at a session high.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.08) took the opposite route, giving up 2.5 points, or 13.4%. The "fear gauge" is now in the red on a month-to-date basis, after exploring two-year highs less than a week ago.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Existing home sales rose 2.4% last month, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.17 million, the National Association of Realtors said. The uptick was better than expected, and marked the fastest pace in one year.(MarketWatch)
2. Outside the U.S., the European Central Bank (ECB) is reportedly mulling a plan to buy corporate bonds by the end of the year, in an effort to prop up the eurozone economy. (Reuters)
3. How MSFT is contributing to the fight against Ebola.
4. Airlines rallied, and American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:AAL) option players bet on more post-earnings upside.
5. Harley-Davidson Inc (NYSE:HOG) flew in the face of the bearish masses in the options pits.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Stronger-than-expected industrial production data out of China bolstered hopes for oil demand. Black gold for December delivery added 58 cents, or 0.7%, to settle at $82.49 per barrel.

Hopes for economic stimulus from the ECB lifted gold futures, with December-dated gold tacking on $7, or 0.6%, to finish at $1,251.70 an ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) traded in a roughly 141-point range today, eventually settling with a 19-point gain. This, despite a poorly received earnings report from blue-chip International Business Machines Corp. (NYSE:IBM), which plunged more than 7% in the wake of its results -- its biggest one-day drop since April 2013. This bullish bias was witnessed elsewhere on the Street, with the broader S&P 500 Index (SPX) closing above 1,900 for the first time since Oct. 10, and the Nasdaq Composite's (COMP) 1.4% pop easily outpacing its peers. Small-caps also showed signs of life, with the Russell 2000 Index (RUT) adding 1.2%.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• A quick breakdown of 3 notable blue-chips hitting the earnings confessional tomorrow morning.
• How Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) option traders geared up for tonight's quarterly earnings announcement.
• 2 reasons Apple supplier Cirrus Logic, Inc. (NASDAQ:CRUS) could be poised for a volatile stretch.
• Plus ... IBM pulls its 2015 earnings forecast, CSX Corporation (NYSE:CSX) and Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (USA) (NYSE:CP) part ways, and Sears Holdings Corp (NASDAQ:SHLD) grasps at another lifeline.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,399.67) spent time on both sides of breakeven today, eventually closing 19.3 points, or 0.1%, higher. Of the Dow's 30 components, 24 finished in the green -- led by The Walt Disney Company's (NYSE:DIS) and Nike Inc's (NYSE:NKE) 2% pops. IBM paced the four decliners with its 7.1% drop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,904.01) stair-stepped its way higher throughout the session, adding 17.3 points, or 0.9%, by the close. In similar fashion, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,316.07) spent almost the whole day in the green, tacking on 57.6 points, or 1.4%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 18.57) charted a path steadily lower, finishing with a 3.4-point, or 15.6% loss. What's more, the market's "fear gauge" closed south of its 10-day moving average for the first time since Oct. 8.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. IBM surrendered more than 7% today, after reporting a third-quarter earnings miss this morning. What's more, Big Blue pulled its fiscal 2015 earnings forecast and said it will pay Globalfoundries $1.5 billion to take over its chip-manufacturing unit, a move that will result in a third-quarter pre-tax charge of $4.7 billion for IBM. Meanwhile, amid the stock's steep sell-off, Warren Buffett, whose Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.B) is IBM's largest shareholder, lost roughly $1 billion.(Bloomberg)
2. The courtship between CSX and CP has ended. Rumors of a potential merger hit the wires last week, but today, the two rail companies said they are no longer in talks to combine, citing regulatory concerns. (USA Today)
3. Analysts at Wedbush think AAPL's roll-out of Apple Pay could be a boon for NCR Corporation (NYSE:NCR), which plunged 21.2% today on a dreary outlook. (MarketWatch)
4. SHLD soared 23.1%, as CEO Eddie Lampert offered up another cash infusion.
5. Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) saw notable option activity, as weekly traders bet on a pullback by Friday's close.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil resumed its recent downtrend today, on continuing oversupply concerns. By the close, the December-dated contract had shed 15 cents, or 0.2%, to settle at $81.91 per barrel.

Uncertainty surrounding the global economy was a boon for gold futures, with gold for December delivery -- the most actively traded contract -- tacking on $5.70, or 0.5%, to close at $1,244.70 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) shot higher out of the gate today, never looking back. Stronger-than-expected earnings reports from General Electric Company (NYSE:GE) and American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) bolstered the blue chips into the black, and some upbeat reports on housing starts and consumer sentiment were icing on the cake. Against this backdrop, the Dow spent a healthy portion of the day flirting with 300-point gains, ultimately snapping its losing streak and notching its second-best session of 2014.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Why this for-profit education provider more than doubled at its intraday high.
• Option bulls are gearing up for Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) earnings next week.
• Is Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) headed for record highs? These analysts think so.
• Plus ... The "Ebola czar," central bank irony, and Twitter Inc's (NYSE:TWTR) new partnership.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,380.41) finished with a gain of 263.2 points, or 1.63% -- its second-best session (in percentage terms) of 2014. All 30 blue chips ended in the black, led by a 3.3% gain from UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH). Despite today's rebound, however, the Dow ended the week 1% lower.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,886.76) also spent the session comfortably higher, tacking on 24 points, or 1.3%, but extended its weekly losing streak to four -- the longest since 2011 -- surrendering 1%. Likewise, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,258.44) rallied 41.1 points, or nearly 1%, but settled with a weekly loss of 0.4%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 21.99) gave back 3.2 points, or 12.7%, but secured a weekly win of 3.5%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Under scrutiny for the government's handling of Ebola patients thus far, President Barack Obama will soon name Ron Klain -- former chief of staff for Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Al Gore -- the administration's "Ebola czar," according to reports. (MarketWatch)
2. Fed Chair Janet Yellen said "income and wealth inequality are near their highest levels in the past hundred years." Ironically, a list published today revealed that more than 100 Fed officials earn more money than Yellen. Separately, Boston Fed President Eric Rosengren said he's not holding his breath for another round of quantitative easing. (CNBC)
3. How buying call options provides more leverage than buying stock outright.
4. These eleventh-hour Honeywell International Inc (NYSE:HON) bulls proved prophetic after earnings.
5. TWTR muscled higher after announcing a new partnership.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil eked out a second consecutive win, as upbeat economic data bolstered hopes for demand. Crude for December delivery added 11 cents, or 0.1%, to finish at $82.06 per barrel. For the week, black gold lost 4.4% (when comparing most-active contracts).

Gold futures fell for a second straight session, as a rally in stocks lessened the malleable metal's "safe haven" allure. By the close, December-dated gold dropped $2.20, or 0.1%, to finish at $1,239 an ounce. For the week, however, gold advanced 1.4%.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) flip-flopped all day, but ended just south of breakeven for a sixth consecutive loss. While the blue-chip index at one point was staring at a more than 200-point deficit -- and was sitting below the critical 16,000 level -- stronger-than-expected economic data and comments from St. Louis Fed President James Bullard helped calm investor fears. A number of notable companies also reported quarterly earnings, with Dow component UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) gaining nearly 4% following a successful turn in the confessional. In other news, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) revealed a new line of iPads and provided an update on its Apple Pay digital payment system, though speculators weren't impressed, with the stock settling 1.3% lower.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• Find out how these Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) options paid off BIG time.
• Pre-earnings skeptics are employing multiple options strategies to bet against AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T).
• A sign of capitulation? Amid drastic losses for the major equity indexes, selling climaxes hit a three-year high this week.
• Plus ... Jobless claims plummet, several Fed officials speak, and NFLX's new competitor.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,117.24) finished 24.5 points, or 0.2%, lower, despite dropping by as many as 206.5 points around 10:20 a.m. ET. Two-thirds of the DJI's 30 components ended in the red, paced by a 2.6% loss at Goldman Sachs Group Inc (NYSE:GS). UNH was the biggest winner, adding 3.9%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,862.76) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,217.39) posted extremely slim gains. The SPX edged 0.3 point higher, while the COMP added 2.1 points.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 25.20) slumped 1.1 points, or 4%, but still managed its second-highest close in the last two years.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Initial jobless claims fell to their lowest level in 14-plus years last week, unexpectedly dropping to 264,000 from 287,000. What's more, the four-week average of new claims, which smoothes out week-to-week volatility, hit its lowest mark since 2000. (MarketWatch)
2. A number of Federal Reserve officials stepped behind the microphone today to offer remarks about the state of the economy. Among them, Philadelphia Fed President Charles Plosser said "interest rates may begin to increase sooner than previously anticipated," and called on the central bank to adjust its formal policy to reflect changes to the U.S. economy. Elsewhere, Atlanta Fed President Dennis Lockhart described the labor market as "far from normal," citing a disproportionate number of part-time workers. Perhaps the biggest surprise came from St. Louis Fed President James Bullard, who proposed the central bank consider extending its monthly asset purchases amid the recent downturn in the stock market. (CNBC; MarketWatch)
3. It looks like NFLX will face additional competition, as CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS) announced it will soon offer an online streaming service of its own.
4. This Chinese Internet issue received yet another bullish brokerage note, and rallied in response.
5. Online auctioneer eBay Inc (NASDAQ:EBAY) plunged following earnings news, as Wall Street turned bearish.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

Crude oil managed to recover from a four-year low of $79.78 early in the session, touched after the Energy Information Administration (EIA) released data showing higher-than-expected U.S. inventories. By day's end, though, the November-dated contract added 92 cents, or 1.1%, to settle at $82.70 per barrel, as monthly crude options expired.

Gold's three-day winning streak came to an end, as traders shunned the precious metal in favor of stocks. By the close, December-dated gold was down $3.60, or 0.3%, to settle at $1,241.20 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) dove 173 points -- and at one point was down more than 460 points, and below the 16,000 mark -- for its fifth losing session in a row, pressured by weak economic data and escalating fears of an Ebola outbreak. When all was said and done, the blue-chip index was at its lowest point since April. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) fared little better, both settling with solid losses. Airline stocks were among the hardest hit, due to another positive Ebola diagnosis in the U.S.; financials also got crushed, as earnings data over the past few days has failed to impress. Likewise, energy names faced pressure, as crude futures continued their recent sell-off. Amid this broad-market retreat, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) -- known popularly as the market's "fear gauge" -- soared to multi-year highs.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• A closer look at 2 strategies used by options traders on eBay Inc (NASDAQ:EBAY), ahead of tonight's third-quarter earnings report.
• Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) was feeling the heat from HBO, and pre-earnings option bears wagered on additional downside for the stock through week's end.
• Step inside the Options Lab, where we break down a hypothetical collar strategy on Keurig Green Mountain Inc (NASDAQ:GMCR).
• Plus ... The Beige Book hits the Street, Ebola strikes again, and Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P) prepares to step up to the earnings plate.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 16,141.74) was down by as many as 460 points at its intraday low of 15,855.12, but managed to pare some of its losses to end the session 173.5 points, or 1.1%, south of breakeven. The index hasn't seen these levels since April 11. Meanwhile, all but six of the DJI's 30 components finished lower, led by JPMorgan Chase & Co.'s (NYSE:JPM) 4.2% loss. On the other hand, Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) paced the six blue-chip winners, tacking on 1.2%, despite a round of price-target reductions.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,862.49) dropped 15.2 points, or 0.8%, for its lowest close since mid-April. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,215.32) fared the best of the bunch, losing "only" 11.9 points, or 0.3%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 26.25) spiked 3.5 points, or 15.2%, to close at its highest level since mid-2012. In addition, the market's "fear gauge" hit an intraday high of 31.06 -- a mark not toppled since late 2011.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book showed modest-to-moderate growth throughout the central bank's 12 districts, but few signs of inflation. Among the biggest highlights was growth in the commercial construction and transportation sectors. However, consumer spending was reportedly light to moderate, as the latest retail sales numbers from the Commerce Department corroborated. (USA Today; Bloomberg)
2. A second worker from Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas tested positive for Ebola, just a day after she flew back to Dallas from Cleveland. Officials are reaching out to passengers who shared a flight with the patient, who showed no signs of illness during her travels, according to crew members. (The New York Times)
3. Options traders placed bullish bets on P, as the firm prepares for its upcoming turn in the earnings confessional.
4. Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL) got slammed by the latest Ebola news, and speculators are seeking additional short-term losses.
5. On the other hand, this pharmaceutical stock -- and several others -- got a major lift from the deadly disease's advance.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

November-dated crude hit a nearly four-year low of $80.01 per barrel, falling in sympathy with the equity markets, amid oversupply and slackening demand. By the close of the session, however, liquid gold was down just 6 cents, or 0.1%, at $81.78 per barrel -- though this was still the lowest settlement price in more than two years.

Gold climbed for its third consecutive session, as weak economic data -- including a surprise retreat in the producer price index (PPI) -- and the broad-market sell-off pushed traders toward safe-haven investments. The December-dated contract added $10.50, or 0.9%, to settle at $1,244.80 per ounce, and touched a one-month high in intraday trading.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) traded with modest losses for much of the day, and despite an afternoon breakout to the upside, failed to notch a third straight win. Bears and bulls spent the session in a tug-of-war match, with the latter encouraged by disappointing economic data and drama out of Greece. Against this backdrop, and despite strong earnings results, crude's reversal, and dovish Fed chatter, the major market indexes settled south of breakeven.

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

• An FDA approval sent this pharmaceutical stock to a three-year peak, while its sector peer got a boost from positive drug results.
• Who knew traders were so enamored by social media? Looking in on how call buyers have been all over Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) and Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR).
• 2 financial giants that squashed earnings estimates, and the blue chip that gets its chance tomorrow.
• Plus ... Lockhart goes dovish, the wheelin' and dealin' drug company, and the Wall Street freshman that soared 87.5% in its debut.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 18,105.77) appeared ready to make it three winning sessions in a row, but stumbled in the last hour. At the close, index was down 6.8 points, or 0.04%. Only nine of the index's 30 components finished in the black. After reporting strong earnings, UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) added 3.7%, making it the top gainer, with Merck & Co., Inc.'s (NYSE:MRK) 1% loss rounding out the losers.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,104.99) held the 2,100 level, but dropped 1.6 points, or 0.1%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 5,007.79) fell slightly, too, dropping 3.2 points, or 0.1%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 12.60) dropped 0.2 point, or 1.9%, finishing below 13 -- and its 10- and 20-day moving averages -- once again.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. In a speech today, Atlanta Fed President Dennis Lockhart made comments about uncertain economic conditions and "notably weak" first-quarter data, that some believe could push the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to raise interest rates later than expected. (CNBC)
2. Speaking of unflattering economic data, weekly jobless claims rose unexpectedly. On a seasonally adjusted basis, 294,000 claims were filed, compared to economists' prediction of 280,000. (Fox Business)
3. Another day, another deal for Bristol-Myers Squibb Co (NYSE:BMY).
4. An eyebrow-raising bet on Herbalife Ltd. (NYSE:HLF) ahead of April options expiration.
5. One more look at how Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) and Wall Street freshman Etsy (NASDAQ:ETSY) dominated headlines.

For a look at today's options movers and commodities activity, head to page 2.

Commodities:

For the sixth straight session, crude saw gains, as fighting in Yemen overshadowed an Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) output report. At the close, May-dated crude rose $0.32, or 0.6%, to settle at $56.71 -- another 2015 high.

Gold endured a different fate. At the close, gold for June delivery was off $3.30, or 0.3%, at $1,198.00 per ounce.