The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) nearly made it three straight daily victories -- and came within a chip-shot of the key 18,000 level -- but surrendered a triple-digit lead ahead of tomorrow's highly anticipated Fed meeting minutes and the unofficial start of earnings season. While there was little in the way of economic data today -- notwithstanding a relatively in-line Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) -- a multi-month high in crude and renewed strength in the dollar captured attention. Also noteworthy, Minneapolis Fed President Narayana Kocherlakota broke with many of his peers during an early morning speech, calling on the central bank to wait until the second half of 2016 to begin hiking interest rates.

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

• This M&A rumor boosted Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR) -- and had options traders gambling on more end-of-week upside.
• The news that sent 500.com Ltd (NYSE:WBAI) 18% higher.
• Calls were popular on Cyberark Software Ltd (NASDAQ:CYBR) and JD.Com Inc (NASDAQ:JD), as the tech stocks rallied.
• Plus ... Job openings rise, a new presidential hopeful, and the cloud stock flirting with new highs.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,875.42) came within 17 points of 18,000 today, but slid in late-afternoon trading to settle on a loss of 5.4 points, or 0.03%. Fourteen of the Dow's 30 components settled above breakeven, paced by a 1.5% gain at Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX). The remaining 16 blue chips ended lower, led by American Express Company (NYSE:AXP), which lost 1.6%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,076.33) slipped 4.3 points, or 0.2%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,910.23) suffered a similar fate, giving back 7.1 points, or 0.1%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 14.78) rallied late in the day to close with a slim gain of 0.04 point, or 0.3%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' JOLTS revealed job openings hit a 14-year high in February. Specifically, openings rose slightly to 5.1 million from 5 million in January, edging past economists' consensus estimate. (CNBC)
2. Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul declared his candidacy for the presidency, joining Texas Sen. Ted Cruz in the race for the 2016 GOP nomination. In his speech, Paul laid out an agenda that includes pushing for term limits, curbing government debt, and protecting civil liberties. (CNN)
3. Call buyers took aim at Barracuda Networks Inc (NYSE:CUDA), as the stock surged to an annual high.
4. The Canadian government is throwing in the towel on this U.S. automaker.
5. Why Clovis Oncology Inc (NASDAQ:CLVS) short sellers may be feeling the heat.

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

Commodities:

Crude oil rallied to its highest point since December, despite a long-term bearish forecast from Goldman Sachs, and ahead of tomorrow's supply report from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The dovish comments from Kocherlakota also helped buoy liquid gold. At the close, crude for May delivery was up $1.84, or 3.5%, at $53.98 per barrel.

Gold retreated amid a strengthening dollar, giving back some of Monday's data-induced gains. By day's end, June-dated gold was down $8, or 0.7%, to settle at $1,210.60 per ounce.

It was a wild day of trading, as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) swung from a triple-digit deficit to a triple-digit advance in the blink of an eye. At the session's start, Friday's lackluster jobs report pressured U.S. stocks sharply lower, but by mid-morning, investors changed their tune toward the data -- hopeful that it could help delay the Fed's eventual interest-rate hike. Echoing this, New York Fed President William Dudley said the timing of a rate increase will be data-dependent. Meanwhile, energy stocks led the S&P 500 Index (SPX) higher, amid news of Saudi Arabia's price hike for Asia and subsiding fears surrounding a potential influx of Iranian oil.

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

• Our founder and CEO Bernie Schaeffer outlined 4 levels to watch on Apple Inc.'s (NASDAQ:AAPL) chart.
• Overseas M&A news boosted 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD), while Herbalife Ltd. (NYSE:HLF) wavered on reports of a federal probe.
• A sharp rise in crude impacted Halliburton Company (NYSE:HAL) and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL) differently.
• Plus ... Dudley defends himself, U.S. service sector cools, and Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) topples $200.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,880.85) was down by as many as 116.4 points today, but quickly swung higher to finish with a gain of 117.6 points, or 0.7%. Twenty-five of the Dow's 30 components ended north of the flatline, led by Microsoft Corporation's (NASDAQ:MSFT) 3.1% advance. Leading the five losers was Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ), which slipped 0.5%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,080.62) added 13.7 points, or 0.7%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,917.32) tacked on 30.4 points, or 0.6%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 14.74) settled just north of breakeven, adding 0.07 point, or 0.5%. For the second straight session, the market's "fear gauge" fell short of the 15 level.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. New York Fed President William Dudley responded to bipartisan criticism of the Empire State's central bank branch, which a number of politicians have said is too powerful and too aligned with Wall Street. "I believe that the Federal Reserve System's monetary policy responsibilities are allocated appropriately by the Federal Open Market Committee, with New York playing an important role to ensure that monetary policy is executed effectively even during periods of duress," Dudley remarked. (Bloomberg)
2. The Institute for Supply Management's (ISM) non-manufacturing index declined to its lowest level since December, indicating growth in the services sector slowed last month. However, the exports index rose to its highest level in over two years, in spite of a strong dollar. (CNBC)
3. The achievement that lifted TSLA back above $200, and had option bulls champing at the bit.
4. Why Zillow Group Inc (NASDAQ:Z) fell out of triple-digit territory.
5. Three notable names being targeted by short-term options traders.

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

Commodities:

Crude soared after leading exporter Saudi Arabia raised its prices for buyers in Asia for a second consecutive month, hinting at healthy demand. By the close, the May-dated contract was up 3%, or 6.1%, at $52.14 per barrel -- the loftiest close for a most-active contract since mid-February.

Gold rallied in the wake of Friday's disappointing nonfarm payrolls report, as well as today's ISM services index. By day's end, gold for June delivery added $17.70, or 1.5%, to land at $1,218.60 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) ended the holiday-shortened week with a data-fueled bang, as updates on jobs, factory activity, and the trade deficit helped paint a glass-half-full backdrop. Also helping to buoy the day's price action was news that an agreement has been reached between Iran and world powers over the country's nuclear program. However, despite being up triple digits at one point, the blue-chip barometer's momentum stalled in afternoon trading, as caution set in ahead of tomorrow's release of the Labor Department's nonfarm payrolls report.

Meanwhile, the day's bullish bias was witnessed elsewhere on the Street, with the S&P 500 Index (SPX) bouncing back today, and more importantly, maintaining a foothold above its year-to-date breakeven mark ahead of the Easter weekend -- a feat that's had bullish implications in years past. Additionally, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) managed to eke out a modest win.

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

• 3 pharmaceutical stocks that are historical second-quarter outperformers.
• Analysts think Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) and this fellow Nasdaq component are headed for record highs.
• Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE:RAD) rallied to impressive heights in the wake of its same-store sales (SSS) report, while scandal-ridden Lumber Liquidators Holdings Inc (NYSE:LL) managed to gain ground, despite its dreary SSS results.
• Plus ... Details around Iran's nuclear pact emerge, Greece flip-flops, and Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) does it again.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,763.24) was up nearly 117 points at its intraday peak, before settling with a 65.1-point, or 0.4%, gain. Twenty-two of the Dow's 30 components closed higher, led by Home Depot Inc's (NYSE:HD) 1.3% pop. Microsoft Corporation's (NASDAQ:MSFT) 1.1% loss paced the six decliners, while Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) and The Coca-Cola Co (NYSE:KO) were unchanged. For the week, the DJIA added 0.3%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,066.96) tacked on 7.3 points, or 0.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,886.94) lagged its peers with a 6.7-point, or 0.1%, gain. On a weekly basis, the SPX added 0.3%, but the COMP gave back 0.1%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 14.67) jumped out of the gate, before closing down 0.4 point, or 2.9%. For the week, the market's "fear gauge" shed 2.7%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Iran and leaders from the U.S., U.K, France, Germany, Russia, and China said they have come to terms regarding Tehran's nuclear weapons program. According to the agreement -- which has yet to be drafted -- Iran's nuclear program will be severely limited for up to 25 years, and in return, Western sanctions will be lifted. (MarketWatch)
2. Contrary to previous reports, Greece's finance ministry said it would not run out of cash next Thursday, April 9. "The finance ministry categorically denies an anonymous report by Reuters on issues which were supposedly discussed during the Euro Working Group on April 1," said the ministry in a released statement. (Reuters)
3. AMZN unveiled a round of new ideas this week, including an even more convenient way to place your order.
4. Options activity accelerated on Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL), amid reports the European Union (EU) is preparing its antitrust case against the tech titan.
5. This alternative energy issue jumped to a six-year high today, but options traders think there's more room to run.

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

Commodities:

Crude fell back below the round-number $50 mark, as an Iran nuclear deal sparked concern the country would begin exporting oil into an already saturated market. At session's end, crude for May delivery was down 95 cents, or 1.9%, at $49.14 per barrel. Week-to-date, though, crude tacked on 0.6%.

Gold lost some of its luster today, thanks to a better-than-expected reading on weekly jobless claims. By the close, June-dated gold was off $7.30, or 0.6%, at $1,200.90 per ounce. On a week-to-date basis, the malleable metal ended fractionally higher.

A dreary finish to the first quarter carried over into today's trading, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) kicking the second quarter off with a significant loss. Stoking the day's risk-off attitude was a round of disappointing economic data, which included updates on jobs, manufacturing, and car sales. Elsewhere, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) slumped today -- but could be on the mend tomorrow -- while the Nasdaq Composite's (COMP) tumble was contained by its 50-day moving average.

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

• This drugmaker jumped more than 50% -- and to a fresh 14-year peak -- on upbeat trial data, while its sector peer popped on a CEO split.
• Ahead of Micron Technology, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:MU) turn in the earnings confessional this evening, options traders have been going against the post-earnings grain.
• Your go-to guide for the "it" volatility product, courtesy of Schaeffer's contributor Adam Warner.
• Plus ... Jobs data paints a dreary picture, Obama takes executive action against cyberattacks, and Wall Street weighs in on Indiana's religious freedom law.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,698.18) spent almost the entire day in the red, eventually closing down 77.9 points, or 0.4%. Twenty-two of the Dow's 30 components closed lower, led by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.'s (NYSE:WMT) 1.9% drop. Goldman Sachs Group Inc (NYSE:GS) paced the eight advancers with its 2.3% gain.

It was a similar set-up for the S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,059.69), which closed down 8.2 points, or 0.4%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,880.23), meanwhile, ended with a 20.7-point, or 0.4%, loss.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.11) popped higher at the open, but by the time the dust settled, the market's "fear gauge" was off 0.2 point, or 1.2%, and back below its 40-day moving average.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Jobs data began to trickle in today, ahead of Friday's nonfarm payrolls report. Specifically, ADP said the private sector added 189,000 jobs in March -- well below economists' estimate for 225,000. (USA Today)
2. President Barack Obama today signed an executive order aimed at battling cyberattacks. The order will allow the Treasury Department to impose sanctions on individuals or organizations involved in massive cyberattacks that incur "significant" damages or harm "critical infrastructure." (MarketWatch)
3. A number of Wall Street heavyweights have provided feedback on Indiana's recently passed Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and with Arkansas lawmakers approving a similar bill yesterday, this blue chip made sure its opinion was known.
4. Breaking down the multi-million-dollar bullish bet on OvaScience Inc (NASDAQ:OVAS).
5. News of fresh competition sent Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P) south, but options traders paid no mind.

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

Commodities:

Crude bounced back in a big way, after domestic production declined slightly, and nuclear negotiations in Iran missed a deadline. By the close, crude for May delivery was up $2.49, or 5.2%, at $50.09 per barrel.

Gold snapped its recent losing streak -- and buoyed mining stocks -- as today's uninspiring economic data heightened expectations of a delayed interest-rate hike. Also helping to boost the malleable metal was a cooling dollar. At session's end, June-dated gold was up $25, or 2.1%, at $1,208.20 per ounce.

Stocks couldn't maintain Monday's momentum, with all three major market indexes notching notable declines. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), for instance, erased nearly all of yesterday's gains -- and slipped into the red on a quarterly basis in a late-day sell-off -- as traders digested the latest round of economic reports and slumping energy prices. However, although the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) each logged significant losses in today's trading, they remained above water for the quarter. In fact, both the SPX and COMP extended their quarterly win streaks to nine -- the longest for the SPX since 1997, and the lengthiest on record for the COMP.

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

• This retailer and its sector peer rallied big in the wake of some upbeat brokerage attention.
• The gossip hounds took aim at Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) and this social media titan, which had weekly options traders champing at the bit.
• Cable providers were in the spotlight today, with a $10 billion acquisition for one, and a new venture for another.
• Plus ... Consumer confidence soars, IPOs slump, and SolarCity Corp (NASDAQ:SCTY) bulls just can't quit.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,776.12) headed south out of the gate, eventually settling with a 200.2-point, or 1.1%, loss. Twenty-seven of the Dow's 30 components closed lower, led by a 2.2% drop for UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH). American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) paced the three advancers with its 0.4% gain. On a monthly basis, the DJIA shed 2%, and 0.3% on the quarter.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,067.89) gave back 18.4 points, or 0.9% on the day, and 1.7% for the month. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,900.88), meanwhile, ended the session at a 46.6-point, or 0.9%, loss, and the month with a 1.3% deficit. For the quarter, however, the SPX and COMP added 0.4% and 3.5%, respectively.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.29) snapped its two-day losing streak -- adding 0.8 point, or 5.4%, and reclaiming its perch atop the 15 mark. For the month, the market's "fear gauge" jumped 14.6%, but wallowed to a 20.4% quarterly loss.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Consumer confidence rose to its highest level since August 2007 in March, with the Conference Board's measure topping out at 101.3 -- easily above economists' estimate of 96.4. Elsewhere on the economic front, the S&P/Case-Shiller home price index rose 4.6% year-over-year in January, while the Chicago purchasing managers index (PMI) edged up to 46.3 from 45.8 in February, but signaled contraction for a second straight month.(USA Today; CNBC; MarketWatch)
2. Initial public offerings (IPOs) fell to a two-year low of 34 in the first quarter, with the $5.4 billion raised marking the most paltry amount since the third quarter of 2011. These figures include newcomer GoDaddy Inc. (NYSE:GDDY), which will begin trading on the Big Board tomorrow. (MarketWatch; TIME)
3. SCTY continued to rally today, in the wake of yesterday's rumor-related surge, but options traders think there's more room to run.
4. This real estate issue soared on news of a roughly $1.5 billion purchase, while this mining magnate plunged after denying rumors of a potential merger.
5. How pre-earnings sentiment is stacked up on these 3 names.

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

Commodities:

Anxiety surrounding nuclear negotiations in Iran sent crude lower for a third straight day. At the close, May-dated crude was down $1.08, or 2.2%, at $47.60 per barrel. For the month, crude surrendered 4.3%, and 10.6% on the quarter.

Gold also notched its third consecutive loss today, as the greenback gained ground. At session's end, gold for April delivery was off $1.70, or 0.1%, at $1,183.10 per ounce. On a monthly basis, the malleable metal gave back 2.5%, and fell slightly on the quarter.

The day started off with a bang, as global stimulus chatter and a massive round of M&A activity had bulls champing at the bit. At its highest point, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) had found its way back above the psychologically significant 18,000 mark, but couldn't maintain a foothold through the close. Still, the blue-chip barometer settled with a healthy triple-digit gain -- and took a big chunk out of last week's steep losses.

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

• Schaeffer's Senior VP of Research Todd Salamone breaks down what the "keep it simple" model is saying. (Hint: It's good news for bulls.)
• A cryptic tweet from Tesla Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musk had option bulls buzzing, and the rumor mill churning that the company could be in cahoots with this solar power concern.
• Upbeat words from the brokerage bunch helped this chipmaker and its sector peer notch notable milestones.
• Plus ... Personal income and spending kick off a busy week of data, Big Ben is back, and 3 airlines feeling the effect of crude's volatility.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,976.31) spent the whole day in the green. At its session peak, the blue-chip barometer was up 296 points, before settling with a 263.7-point, or 1.5%, gain. All but two of the Dow's 30 components closed higher, led by a 2.6% pop for Boeing Co (NYSE:BA). On the flip side, Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) gave back 1.7%, while Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) ended down 0.02%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,086.24) closed near its session high, up 25.2 points, or 1.2%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,947.44) added 56.2 points, or 1.2%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 14.51) brought its losing streak to two, shedding 0.6 point, or 3.7% -- and surrendering its short-term foothold atop 15.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. There's a ton of economic data packed into the holiday-shortened week, and kicking things off were updates on personal income and spending, as well as pending home sales. Specifically, the Commerce Department said personal income edged up 0.4% in February, while consumer spending rose 0.1%. Elsewhere, the National Association of Realtors reported a 3.1% rise in pending home sales last month, sending the index to 106.9 -- its loftiest reading since June 2013.(FOX Business; USA Today)
2. Former Federal Reserve Chair Ben Bernanke -- who left the post in January 2014 -- has begun blogging for the Brookings Institution. "Now that I'm a civilian again, I can once more comment on economic and financial issues without my words being put under the microscope by Fed watchers," said Big Ben, who will publish a book on the financial crisis this fall. (Bloomberg)
3. How these 3 airlines have been affected by crude's volatile price action -- and why consumers aren't reaping the benefits.
4. 3 notable names preparing for their late-season turns in the earnings confessional.
5. How to prove your VIX thesis in one easy step, courtesy of Schaeffer's contributor Adam Warner.

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

Commodities:

Crude closed lower for a second straight session, amid a strengthening greenback and reports that a deal over Iran's nuclear program could allow the country to ramp up exports. By the close, crude for May delivery was down 19 cents, or 0.4%, at $48.68 per barrel.

The rising dollar also applied pressure to gold today, with the April-dated contract dropping $15, or 1.3%, to settle at $1,184.80 per ounce.

The bears finally took a breather today, with U.S. stocks edging higher after four straight days in the red. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the S&P 500 Index (SPX) wobbled just north of the flatline for most of the day -- and barely put a dent in their weekly deficits -- as traders digested the latest gross domestic product (GDP) reading and commodities cooled off. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP) was the star of the show, as a rebound among biopharmaceuticals helped the index outperform its peers. Meanwhile, a late-session speech from Fed Chair Janet Yellen only helped the bulls' case, with the central banker opining that "conditions may warrant" an interest-rate hike sometime this year, but that lackluster inflation or jobs data could prolong the status quo. Looking ahead, Yellen will step up to the podium again on Thursday, just ahead of a closely watched payrolls report.

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

• Biotechs were once again the stocks du jour, and Citigroup analysts have high hopes for this vaccine maker and these two sector peers.
• Speaking of drugmakers, M&A hopes bolstered BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (NASDAQ:BMRN) -- as well as this chemical stock -- to all-time highs.
• While the rest of Wall Street was licking its wounds, option bears were pouring salt in Tesla Motors Inc's (NASDAQ:TSLA).
• Plus ... The collective pulse of consumers, a semiconductor stock on the mend, and the BlackBerry Ltd (NASDAQ:BBRY) earnings reaction.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,712.66) dipped below breakeven in early trading, but eventually ended with a gain of 34.4 points, or 0.2%. Eighteen of the index's 30 blue chips finished higher, led by Intel Corporation's (NASDAQ:INTC) late-day, M&A-inspired gain of 6.4%. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) and Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM) paced the 12 laggards as oil backpedaled, both surrendering 0.9%. For the week, the Dow dropped 2.3%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,061.02) erased yesterday's losses, adding 4.9 points, or 0.2%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,891.22) fared the best of the broad-market indexes, advancing 27.9 points, or 0.6%. For the week, the SPX and COMP dipped 2.2% and 2.7%, respectively.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.07) ended lower for the first session in five, giving up 0.7 point, or 4.6%. For the week, the "fear gauge" rallied 15.7%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. U.S. GDP grew at an annual rate of 2.2% in the fourth quarter, according to the Commerce Department, in line with previous estimates. Economists were expecting GDP to be upwardly revised to 2.4%. (Reuters)
2. The Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment index came in at 93 for March's final reading, down from February's 95.4. However, the index edged higher than economists' estimates, and consumer optimism hit a 10-year high in the first quarter. (CNBC)
3. Semiconductor stocks bounced back today. Can Skyworks Solutions Inc (NASDAQ:SWKS) resume its quest for record highs?
4. Why BBRY shorts might be feeling the heat after earnings. GameStop Corp. (NYSE:GME) shorts? Not so much.
5. How option buyers are gambling on new lows for this beleaguered oil stock.

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

Commodities:

Crude halted its five-session run higher, as easing tensions in the Middle East -- and subsequent concerns about supplies -- trumped a 16th straight weekly drop in domestic oil rigs. Against this backdrop, oil for May delivery shed $2.56, or 5%, to finish at $48.87 per barrel. Week-over-week, though, black gold jumped 4.9%.

Gold snapped its seven-session winning streak, as safe-haven demand eased and traders took profits. By the close, April-dated gold surrendered $5, or 0.4%, to end at $1,199.80 an ounce. For the week, the malleable metal added 1.3%.

After a dismal start, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) made a strong push in the second half of the day -- and traded in positive territory for a short time -- but eventually finished slightly lower. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) both followed similar paths, closing well off their intraday lows. Also, for the fifth day in a row, crude shot higher, with conflicts in Yemen stoking supply worries. Likewise, safe-haven demand ushered gold to a seventh straight win. On the economic front, weekly jobless claims came in at their lowest point in over a month. For tomorrow, traders will be zeroed in on the final fourth-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) figures.

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

• Bearish option traders attacked QUALCOMM, Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM), while short interest is heavy on BlackBerry Ltd (NASDAQ:BBRY) and GameStop Corp. (NYSE:GME) ahead of earnings.
• Lululemon Athletica inc. (NASDAQ:LULU) offered a dreary current-quarter outlook. So why did the stock rally?
• The Dow's newest member got a lift from the brokerage bunch, as it tries to secure record highs once again.
• Plus ... Disturbing updates on the plane crash in France, a pharmaceutical stock at all-time highs, and who in their right mind is going to watch the Jaguars play the Bills?

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,678.23) was down almost 140 points at its session low, but ultimately pared its loss to 40.3 points, or 0.2%, for a fourth straight drop. Of the Dow's 30 components, seven moved higher, led by International Business Machines Corp.'s (NYSE:IBM) 0.9% gain. American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) was the biggest loser, dropping 2%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,056.15) peeked above breakeven in afternoon action, but fell 4.9 points, or 0.2%, by the close. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4863.36) lost 13.2 points, or 0.3%, after being down 50 points out of the gate.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.80) jumped again today, adding 0.4 point, or 2.3%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. A French prosecutor is claiming that the co-pilot of the German Airbus that crashed in France on Tuesday took the plane down intentionally. The prosecutor, Brice Robin, asserted that the co-pilot locked the captain out of the cockpit, and preceded to show actions that to him seemed like a "willingness to destroy this aircraft."(MarketWatch)
2. Iranian leaders are ordering an end to all Saudi-led military action in Yemen. The demand comes after Saudi-led airstrikes took place on Thursday. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif stated, "We will make all efforts to control the crisis in Yemen. (Reuters)
3. Option bulls were there to meet Novo Nordisk A/S (ADR) (NYSE:NVO) as it hit all-time highs today.
4. It hasn't been a great week for Juniper Networks, Inc. (NYSE:JNPR), and short-term put buyers are taking notice.
5. No one wants to watch that Jaguars-Bills game the NFL is streaming, right? Well, actually ...

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

Commodities:

Crude moved higher for a fifth straight day, toppling the round-number $50 mark, as tensions in Yemen raised questions over supply. May-dated oil tacked on $2.22, or 4.5%, to finish at $51.43 per barrel.

Gold extended its winning streak to seven sessions, as uncertainty surrounding stocks pushed investors toward the safe-haven metal. April-dated gold added $7.80, or 0.7%, to settle at $1,204.80 per ounce, its highest perch since the beginning of the month.

It was an ugly day for U.S. markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) made a quick stop in positive territory out of the gate, but it was all downhill from there, with the index dropping triple digits to end south of 18,000. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) also endured sharp losses, with the latter pacing the broad-market decline amid sector sell-offs in tech and biotech stocks. Indexes were also hurt by weak durable goods data, while crude oil extended its winning streak as the recently volatile dollar took a breather and geopolitical turmoil ramped up.

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

• Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) and Marvell Technology Group Ltd. (NASDAQ:MRVL) dipped as semiconductor stocks sold off, and bears took aim at this sector peer.
• Option bulls are looking for Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ:YHOO) to break down a recent roadblock, while puts grew popular amid Facebook Inc's (NASDAQ:FB) big event.
• Analysts have high hopes for GoPro Inc (NASDAQ:GPRO) and Groupon Inc (NASDAQ:GRPN). Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA)? Not so much.
• Plus ... Durable goods data, some surprise strength from a steel name, and 3 companies releasing earnings tomorrow.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 17,718.54) sank lower and lower throughout the session, giving up the 18,000 level. At the close, the Dow was down 292.6 points, or 1.6%, for the day. Of the Dow's 30 components, only Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) and Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) managed to finish positive. The "biggest loser" crown went to tech titan Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) and its 3.4% drop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,061.05) dropped 30.5 points, or 1.5%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,876.52) lost 118.2 points, or 2.4% -- the index's worst percentage loss in 11 months.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.44) shot higher today, adding 1.8 points, or 13.4%, to retake the 15 level. What's more, the "fear index" finished atop its 200-day trendline for the first time since March 17.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Orders for durable goods fell 1.4% in February, the Commerce Department said, surprising economists. It's the third time in four months the reading has come in lower than the previous month's. Cited as possible causes for the slowdown was the winter weather and conflicts at West Coast shipping ports. (USA Today)
2. Investigators were able to retrieve cockpit recordings from a black box of the German Airbus that crashed yesterday and killed all onboard. Information about the recordings could be available within a few days. France's air incident investigation unit made clear that it was too early in the investigation to speculate what caused the crash. (Reuters)
3. This steel stock showed rare technical tenacity, resulting in an uptick in call buying.
4. 3 companies preparing to step into the earnings confessional tomorrow.
5. Put buyers looked to profit off of Keurig Green Mountain Inc's (NASDAQ:GMCR) technical woes.

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

Commodities:

Crude shot higher today, finishing at an almost two-week peak, as the dollar cooled and fighting in Yemen fueled supply concerns. May-dated oil added $1.70, or 3.6%, to finish at $49.21 per barrel.

For the sixth day in a row, gold closed higher, as lackluster economic data triggered safe-haven demand. April-dated gold added $5.60, or 0.5%, to settle at $1,199.30 per ounce.

After a hot-and-cold start to the session, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) tumbled in the second half of the day, as a strong batch of economic data brought the inevitable rate-hike jitters to the forefront of investors' minds once again. Those concerns were exacerbated by comments from San Francisco Fed President John Williams, who voiced his support for an increase in rates this year, and St. Louis Fed President James Bullard, who suggested the market should prepare itself for a hike "sometime in the summer." Also weighing on markets was a stronger dollar, which found its footing after yesterday's dip. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) struggled to keep its newfound footing above the 5,000 level.

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

• Reports of a new executive helped Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) build on its recent momentum, as Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) went in the opposite direction.
• This commodity concern cut its dividend by 84% the same day a sector peer got an analyst-induced lift.
• Bullish options activity has increased on this Dow component over the past 10 days, with the shares down 12.5% in 2015.
• Plus ... New home sales impress, Twitter does it again, and what's behind the increased activity in this under-the-radar biotech stock?

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 18,011.14) had a few forays into positive territory, but finished lower once again. At the close, the Dow was down 104 points, or 0.6%, for the day. Of the Dow's 30 components, only six ended positive, with McDonald's Corporation (NYSE:MCD) as the top gainer, adding 0.8%. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) was the biggest loser, dropping 1.6%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,091.50) dropped 12.9 points, or 0.6%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,994.73) ended its two-day run above 5,000, losing 16.3 points, or 0.3%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 13.62) added 0.2 point, or 1.6%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. All 150 people on board a Lufthansa Germanwings Airbus are dead after it crashed in the French Alps earlier today. A black box recorder has been found, and will be investigated immediately, according to France's interior minister. (Reuters)
2. New home sales rose 7.8% in February, climbing to the highest point in seven years. Sales topped 500,000 for the second straight month, the first time that's happened since the early months of 2008. (MarketWatch)
3. Twitter, Inc. (NYSE:TWTR) bulls were at it once again.
4. Digital Ally, Inc. (NASDAQ:DGLY) soared higher today -- and it brought sector peer TASER International, Inc. (NASDAQ:TASR) along for the ride.
5. Options volume was off the charts for OvaScience Inc (NASDAQ:OVAS). But why?

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

Commodities:

Crude edged higher to close in the black for the third straight day. May-dated oil added 6 cents, or 0.1%, to finish at $47.51 per barrel.

Gold jumped to almost three-week highs, as uncertainty about the situation in Greece led investors to the safe-haven metal. April-dated gold added $3.70, or 0.3%, to finish at $1,191.40 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) stayed positive for most of the session, but a late-session sell-off pressured the blue-chip index into the red. As such, the Dow has yet to notch two straight wins in March. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) finished a wishy-washy session south of breakeven, as did the Nasdaq Composite (COMP). Investors were initially encouraged by oil's ability to surge for a second straight day and a dollar that continued to weaken, with blue chip Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) providing an added boost. For tomorrow, traders can look forward to new home sales and the consumer price index (CPI).

• Schaeffer's Senior Vice President of Research Todd Salamone discussed the biggest risk to the market right now.
• Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) extended its hunt for all-time highs, while rival Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR) refused to be left behind.
• Options bulls went after this oil giant amid M&A rumors, as another commodity concern continued its recent hot streak.
• Plus ... It may be hard to find that dream house, the GOP's first candidate, and an agricultural stock that "disagrees with junk science."

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 18,116.04) stayed positive until the tail-end of the session, just missing its first two-day win streak since February. At the close, the Dow was down 11.6 points, or 0.1%. Of the Dow's 30 components, 12 ended positive, with PFE's 2.3% gain leading the way. Home Depot Inc (NYSE:HD) paced the losers with a 1.2% drop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,104.42) dropped 3.7 points, or 0.2%, in a late-session dip. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 5,010.97) stayed above 5,000, but lost 15.5 points, or 0.3%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 13.41) added 0.4 point, or 3%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Existing home sales grew slightly in February, with prices jumping by the most in a year, due to the ongoing shortage of properties. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported a 1.2% rise to 4.88 million units, versus analysts' prediction of 4.90 million. (Reuters)
2. Ted Cruz has announced his plans to run for president in 2016, becoming the first major figure from either party to officially enter the race for the White House. The conservative Texas senator made public his plans to run for the position this morning on Twitter. (MarketWatch)
3. FireEye Inc (NASDAQ:FEYE) got some help from a sector peer.
4. Extending last week's gains, Herbalife Ltd. (NYSE:HLF) is likely making some short sellers nervous.
5. News from the World Health Organization (WHO) took a major bite out of this fertilizer producer.

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

Commodities:

Once again, crude got a lift from a lower dollar, shrugging off comments from Saudi Arabia that production will not be cut. May-dated oil added 88 cents, or 1.9%, to finish at $47.45 per barrel -- its highest finish in almost two weeks.

Gold also benefited from the weaker dollar, extending its winning streak to four sessions. April-dated gold added $3.10, or 0.3%, to settle at $1,187.70 per ounce.

It's been a wild week on Wall Street, and today was no exception. A softening dollar was a boon to the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), helping the index to another triple-digit gain and its first weekly win in four. The DJIA also settled above the psychologically significant 18,000 millennium level, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) easily took out 5,000 en route to a 14-year high. Small-caps joined in on the fun, too, as the Russell 2000 Index (RUT) notched an all-time peak at 1,267.22. While there was little in the way of economic data to process, an earnings beat and round of positive analyst notes lifted blue chip Nike Inc (NYSE:NKE) to a new high.

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

• Another legal win sent shares of Herbalife Ltd. (NYSE:HLF) to the moon -- but Bill Ackman isn't buying the hype.
• A number of biotech stocks -- including Biogen Idec Inc (NASDAQ:BIIB), Celgene Corporation (NASDAQ:CELG), and Prothena Corporation PLC (NASDAQ:PRTA) -- continued to make noise.
• Option bulls took notice as this semiconductor stock flirted with triple digits and notched a new high.
• Plus ... One Fed official predicts an interest rate hike, a warning for "lazy" investors, and Ambarella Inc's (NASDAQ:AMBA) milestone.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA - 18,127.65) jumped out of the gate, and by late morning had toppled both the 18,000 and 18,100 levels. At the close, the Dow was up 168.6 points, or 0.9%, for the day, and 2.1% week-over-week. NKE paced the 27 advancing blue chips with a 3.7% gain. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH) both lost 1.3%, while DuPont (NYSE:DD) rounded out the losers.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,108.06) popped 18.8 points, or 0.9%, and took out the 2,100 century mark. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 5,026.42) ended atop 5,000 for the second time since 2000 -- adding 34 points, or 0.7% -- and hit a 14-year peak of 5,042.14 in the process. For the week, the SPX and COMP tacked on 2.7% and 3.2%, respectively.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 13.02) dropped 1.1 points, or 7.5%, for its lowest weekly close since early December. Week-over-week, the market's "fear gauge" surrendered 18.6%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Atlanta Fed President Dennis Lockhart said that, unless there's a serious downturn in the U.S. economy, he anticipates the Fed will increase interest rates sometime between June and September. "I think it is realistic to assume that is the period in which we will be taking on this decision with a high likelihood of pulling the trigger," Lockhart opined. (CNBC)
2. Former Dallas Fed President Richard Fisher expressed concern over a potential market correction because "people have gotten lazy." Clarifying the remark, Fisher said investors have become too dependent on the Fed, and as a result, the market has become "hyper overpriced." (CNBC)
3. Eleventh-hour bulls rushed AMBA, on the heels of a fresh record high.
4. Last-minute call buyers responded as Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) got the green light to test drones.
5. Is Five Below Inc (NASDAQ:FIVE) poised for post-earnings upside? These traders think so.

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

Commodities:

Crude got a lift from a weaker dollar, and posted a weekly gain for the first time in five. The now-expired April-dated contract popped $1.76, or 4% -- its best single-day gain since Feb. 12 -- to land at $45.72 per barrel. Week-over-week, oil added 2%.

Gold also advanced on the cooling greenback, for its third straight daily gain. April-dated gold added $15.60, or 1.3%, to settle at $1,184.60, bringing its week-over-week lead to 2.8% -- the biggest jump of its kind since January.