The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) was up by more than 66 points at its intraday high -- powered by a standout January jobs report -- but reversed lower after Standard & Poor's downgraded Greece's credit rating to "B-" from "B," and warned that the run on Greek banks could accelerate. By the close, the Dow was down more than 60 points -- though it still managed a significant weekly gain and remained in positive year-to-date territory. The broader S&P 500 Index (SPX) charted a similar path, but found a foothold atop its key 2,050 level. Looking ahead, a number of notable names are headed to the earnings confessional next week, including blue chip The Coca-Cola Co (NYSE:KO) and electric automaker Tesla Motors Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA).

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

• Bank of America Corp (NYSE:BAC) and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) saw accelerated call buying on renewed hopes of a near-term Fed rate hike.
• Extremely short-term options were in focus as sector headwinds hit Priceline Group Inc (NASDAQ:PCLN).
• Shares of this restaurant chain jumped to a record high, helped by strong same-store sales growth and a round of price-target hikes.
• Plus ... hourly wages jump, one Fed president's troubling remarks, and a seven-figure options trade.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,824.29) erased its early gains to end 60.6 points, or 0.3%, lower. On a week-over-week basis, however, the blue-chip index rallied 3.8% -- outdoing its peers. Eleven of the Dow's 30 components finished above breakeven, paced by a 3.1% pop at Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ). Of the 19 losers, Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) fared the worst, giving back 1.9%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,055.47) slipped 7.1 points, or 0.3%, but managed a 3% week-over-week advance. Similarly, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,744.40) dropped 20.7 points, or 0.4%, yet finished 2.4% higher on a weekly basis.

After spending the first half of the day in the red, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 17.29) added 0.4 point, or 2.6%, but tumbled 17.5% relative to last Friday's close.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Labor Department's nonfarm payrolls report showed several signs of an improving employment market. The U.S. economy added a better-than-expected 257,000 jobs last month, with companies hiring at the fastest rate in more than a decade. Meanwhile, hourly wages popped 0.5% -- the biggest month-over-month increase in six years -- helped by minimum wage boosts in roughly 20 states. (MarketWatch)
2. Despite the aforementioned news, Atlanta Fed President Dennis Lockhart expressed concern over weak inflation and wage growth -- though he still supports an interest rate hike in 2015. This cautious outlook represents a change of pace for Lockhart, who last month described the economy as "hitting on all cylinders." (Reuters, via CNBC)
3. A closer look at this $1.5 million bet on Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD).
4. eBay Inc's (NASDAQ:EBAY) upwardly revised fourth-quarter profit had option bulls licking their chops.
5. This tech concern surged on M&A news -- and call buyers see more upside ahead.

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

Commodities:

Crude continued its run higher amid ongoing violence in Libya and a ninth straight weekly decline in U.S. oil rigs -- which hit their lowest level in more than three years. March-dated oil rose $1.21, or 2.4%, to close at $51.69 per barrel. Compared to last Friday, crude was up 7.2%.

April-dated gold was pressured lower by the strong jobs report, dropping $28.10, or 2.2%, to settle at $1,234.60 per ounce. On a week-over-week basis, the malleable metal gave back 3.5%.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) advanced for a fourth day in a row -- and toppled its year-to-date breakeven mark -- buoyed by a recovery in crude oil. The S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) likewise muscled higher to finish in positive territory for 2015 -- a milestone not achieved since Jan. 22 and Jan. 26, respectively. Throughout the day, traders digested a big helping of M&A headlines and economic data, with weekly jobless stats striking an optimistic tone ahead of tomorrow's nonfarm payrolls report, set for release at 8:30 a.m. ET.

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

• Traders bet bullishly on Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P) and GoPro Inc (NASDAQ:GPRO) ahead of earnings.
• The potential payday that sent shares of Groupon Inc (NASDAQ:GRPN) higher.
• Breaking down Keurig Green Mountain Inc's (NASDAQ:GMCR) post-earnings plunge.
• Plus ... the trade gap widens, a prominent Hollywood exec steps down, and new highs for this credit card concern.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,884.88) popped out of the gate and never looked back, finishing near its intraday peak -- up 211.9 points, or 1.2% -- and in positive year-to-date territory. All 30 of the Dow's components ended higher, led by DuPont's (NYSE:DD) 3.1% advance.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,062.52) added 21 points, or 1%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,765.10) tacked on 48.4 points, or 1%. Both indexes also settled atop their respective year-to-date flatlines.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.85) dropped 1.5 points, or 8.1%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The U.S. trade gap swelled to a two-year high, as a stronger dollar made foreign goods cheaper for consumers. Specifically, the gap widened by $6.8 billion in December to $46.6 billion, compared to a consensus estimate of $38 billion. For all of 2014, the trade deficit came in at $505 billion. (Bloomberg)
2. Amy Pascal, co-chair of Sony Corp's (ADR) (NYSE:SNE) movie studio, is resigning from her post following the recent North Korean hacking scandal. Meanwhile, Chinese state-sponsored hackers are suspected in a cyberattack on Anthem Inc (NYSE:ANTM) -- which translated into a solid day for FireEye Inc (NASDAQ:FEYE). (FOX News; Bloomberg)
3. Eleventh-hour call buyers circled Visa Inc (NYSE:V), as the stock touched a fresh record high.
4. Analysts weighed in on this sports apparel name following an earnings beat and a notable acquisition.
5. Two tech giants that appear headed for a reunion.

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

Commodities:

Crude muscled atop the half-century mark today, amid news of declining production and intensifying violence in Libya. Specifically, the March-dated contract added $2.03, or 4.2%, to settle at $50.48 per barrel -- partially recovering from yesterday's epic sell-off.

Gold retreated slightly, as U.S. equities rallied and traders took a wait-and-see approach ahead of tomorrow's payrolls report. By the close, April-dated gold was down $1.80, or 0.1%, at $1,262.70 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) closed slightly higher today, despite a rout in oil prices -- which suffered their biggest single-day percentage drop since Nov. 28. While several blue-chip energy stocks suffered, the index got a lift from Walt Disney Co's (NYSE:DIS) blowout earnings report. On the economic front, data out of the services sector was promising, but private job growth fell short of the Street's expectations. Looking ahead, a number of Tech 2.0 names will report earnings tomorrow night, including Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR) and LinkedIn Corporation (NYSE:LNKD).

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

• GoPro Inc (NASDAQ:GPRO) got crushed by bearish brokerage attention.
• Breaking down this $1.25 million bet on Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD).
• A closer look at the pre-earnings optimism on TWTR.
• Plus ... the U.S. services sector impresses, private job creation disappoints, and Apple Inc.'s (NASDAQ:AAPL) big milestone.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,673.02) spent much of the session edging higher -- and peaked at a nearly 116-point advance -- but a late-session sell-off left the index with a slim 6.6-point advantage. Thirteen of the Dow's 30 components settled above the flatline, with DIS leading the way, up 7.2 points, or 7.6%. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) paced the 17 losers, shedding 2 points, or 3.2%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,041.51) lost 8.5 points, or 0.4%. Also, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,716.70) gave back 11 points, or 0.2%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 18.33) popped as the SPX struggled, tacking on 1 point, or 5.8%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Institute for Supply Management's (ISM) non-manufacturing index rose to a better-than-expected 56.7 last month. However, the ISM employment index dropped sharply, to 51.6 in January from 55.7 in December. (CNBC)
2. The private sector created 213,000 jobs last month -- less than the 225,000 new positions anticipated by economists -- according to ADP's National Employment Report. Meanwhile, December payrolls were upwardly revised by 12,000 to 253,000. (CNBC)
3. How options traders are reacting to AAPL's new high.
4. This Dow component surged to a record high on a positive post-earnings reaction.
5. On the flip side, Gilead Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:GILD) plummeted due to a shoddy 2015 revenue forecast and a round of price-target cuts.

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

Commodities:

Crude reversed lower after settling at a 2015 high yesterday, following news of record stockpiles from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). At the close, the March-dated contract had plunged $4.60, or 8.7%, to land at $48.45 per barrel -- its largest single-day percentage drop since late November, and first negative session in the last five.

Gold ended slightly higher after China's central bank decided to cut the reserve-requirement ratio for mainland banks. Specifically, April-dated gold gained $4.20, or 0.3%, to finish at $1,264.50 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) scored a second straight triple-digit win today, fueled by gains in the energy sector. Specifically, oil stocks spiked amid crude's ongoing rebound, and futures settled at their highest level of 2015. Elsewhere, St. Louis Fed President James Bullard and Minneapolis Fed President Narayana Kocherlakota offered up divided thoughts on when the central bank should raise interest rates -- with the former calling for an increase sooner rather than later, and the latter cautioning against it. Meanwhile, traders spent much of the day digesting the latest news out of Greece, as well as January auto sales data.

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

• A number of energy stocks surged today, including Halliburton Company (NYSE:HAL) and Whiting Petroleum Corp (NYSE:WLL).
• This 3-D printing name lost more than 28% of its value following crummy guidance.
• Options traders responded differently to reports that Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) could soon sell $10 billion worth of assets.
• Plus ... Auto sales in focus, factory orders dip again, and the online retailer that could soon have a physical storefront.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,666.40) shot higher out of the gate, and ended 305.4 points, or 1.8%, higher. All 30 of the Dow's components advanced, led by Caterpillar Inc.'s (NYSE:CAT) 3.8% gain.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,050.03) bounced 29.2 points, or 1.4%. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,727.74) underperformed its peers, but still managed a solid 51.1-point, or 1.1%, pop.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 17.33) skidded 2.1 points, or 10.8%, but found a foothold atop its 50-day moving average, at 17.09.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Helped by lower gas prices, auto sales were surprisingly strong last month -- as predicted by AutoNation, Inc. (NYSE:AN) -- with a number of major manufacturers seeing double-digit year-over-year gains. Specifically, Detroit darlings General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) and Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) saw sales increase 18% and 15%, respectively, while global leader Toyota Motor Corp (ADR) (NYSE:TM) posted 16% growth. (The New York Times)
2. U.S. factory orders fell a steeper-than-expected 3.4% in December, according to the Commerce Department. This was also the fifth consecutive month that new orders for factory goods declined. (Reuters)
3. Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) options traders broke with the recent bullish trend today, amid rumors the firm may be eyeing RadioShack Corporation (NYSE:RSH) locations.
4. This pair of office supply peddlers rallied on reports of a potential merger.
5. How speculators responded to Canadian Solar Inc.'s (NASDAQ:CSIQ) big acquisition.

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

Commodities:

Crude advanced for a third consecutive day -- and settled at its highest mark of 2015 -- with bulls jumping on the beaten down commodity amid declines in drilling activity and a weaker dollar. This, despite warnings from BP plc (ADR) (NYSE:BP) CEO Bob Dudley about the future of oil prices. At the close, March-dated crude was up $3.48, or 7%, at $53.05 per barrel.

Gold dropped today, as Greece's latest round of debt proposals calmed fears of a potential standoff with the European Union. Specifically, the April-dated contract shed $16.60, or 1.3%, to land at $1,260.30.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) started off February on the right foot, as a rebound in energy outweighed a generally disappointing round of economic data. Specifically, while crude futures ended at a roughly one-month high -- and blue chip Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) rallied on an earnings beat -- consumer spending unexpectedly slowed by the widest margin since late 2009, and a pair of manufacturing reports missed the Street's projections. Nevertheless, after spending some time below breakeven, the Dow ended on a nearly 200-point gain. Looking ahead, blue chip Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS) will report quarterly results tomorrow night, while auto sales and factory orders headline the economic docket.

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

• Big news out of China provided a boost to several solar stocks, including First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR), SolarCity Corp (NASDAQ:SCTY), and Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:CSIQ).
• A rare bit of positive sentiment sent Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD) soaring.
• 2 tech heavyweights seeing a bevy of short-term options trading activity.
• Plus ... The president proposes a $4 trillion budget, manufacturing activity slows, and option bulls swarm this electric automaker.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,361.04) traced a more than 300-point range during the day, and ended near a session high, up 196.1 points, or 1.1%. Twenty-nine of the Dow's 30 components settled atop the flatline, paced by Chevron Corporation's (NYSE:CVX) 3.4% advance. Nike Inc (NYSE:NKE) was the lone decliner, losing 0.4%.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,020.85) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,676.69) also finished near and at their respective daily peaks. The SPX tacked on 25.9 points, or 1.3%, while the COMP added 41.5 points, or 0.9%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 19.43) gave back 1.5 points, or 7.3%, to close below the round-number 20 mark.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. President Barack Obama presented a $3.99 trillion budget, focused on shutting down overseas tax loopholes in order to fund a number of new programs and infrastructure upgrades. During a speech at the Department of Homeland Security, the president also emphasized a desire to end the practice of sequestration, describing the across-the-board budget cuts as "mindless austerity." (USA Today)
2. The Institute for Supply Management's (ISM) manufacturing index slowed to a worse-than-expected 53.5 in January -- its lowest reading in a year. Markit's purchasing managers' manufacturing index (PMI) also remained at an annual low of 53.9, and fell short of expectations. (MarketWatch)
3. Call buyers emerged in Tesla Motors Inc's (NASDAQ:TSLA) options pits amid analyst-induced positivity.
4. How the fall-off in U.S. oil rigs impacted shares of this drilling company.
5. A statement from Greece's new ruling party proved a boon to this financial stock, and had calls flying off the shelves.

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

Commodities:

Crude continued to recover, but fears of a U.S. refinery strike and a potential build in stockpiles capped gains. Crude for March delivery added $1.33, or 2.8%, to land at $49.57 per barrel -- the contract's highest perch in nearly a month.

After an impressive January performance, gold caught its proverbial breath. At the close, April-dated gold was down $2.30, or 0.2%, to settle at $1,276.90 per ounce.

Despite a brief pop north of breakeven in early trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) spent nearly the entire session in the red. By the time the dust settled, the DJI was staring at a triple-digit loss -- and its second consecutive monthly decline. Sparking the day's risk-off attitude were signs of a slowdown in the U.S. economy, as well as a surprise maneuver from Russia's central bank. Elsewhere on the Street, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) gave back a significant portion of Thursday's gains, with the former -- like the Dow -- logging its biggest monthly drop in more than a year. Looking ahead to next week, traders will have plenty to digest on both the earnings and economic fronts, including quarterly results from Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) and the always important nonfarm payrolls report.

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

• A look at 3 of February's best-performing stocks.
• Commodity concerns Eldorado Gold Corp (USA) (NYSE:EGO) and Gulf Resources, Inc. (NASDAQ:GURE) took decidedly different paths today, and options traders responded in kind.
• A pre-game analysis of 7 Super Bowl commercials.
• Plus ... Fourth-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) disappoints, Russia makes a bold move, and Amazon.com, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:AMZN) big day.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,164.95) traded in a 263-point range, with almost all of the day's action to the downside. By the close, the blue-chip barometer was off 251.9 points, or 1.5%, to settle near its session low. Visa Inc (NYSE:V) was the Dow's sole advancer, tacking on 2.8%, while Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) paced the 29 decliners with its 3.8% loss. On a weekly basis, the DJI gave back 2.9%, and was down 3.7% on the month.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 1,994.99) closed with a 26.3-point, or 1.3%, loss -- bringing its week-to-date deficit to 2.8% -- and finished south of 2,000 for just the second time since mid-December. Meanwhile the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,635.24) settled 48.2 points, or 1%, lower, to close the week with a 2.6% loss. Month-over-month, the SPX and COMP shed 3.1% and 2.1%, respectively.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 20.97) tacked on 2.2 points, or 11.8%, to close at its highest perch since Jan. 15. For the week and month, the market's "fear gauge" rallied 25.9% and 9.2%, respectively.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The U.S. economy grew at a slower-than-expected 2.6% pace in the fourth quarter, according to the Commerce Department's advance GDP reading. In other economic news, consumer sentiment soared to its highest level in 11 years, while the employment cost index arrived in line with estimates. (CNN Money; CNBC; MarketWatch)
2. The Bank of Russia made an unexpected move, slashing its key interest rate by 2 percentage points to 15%. According to the central bank, today's decision came after last month's surprise rate hike "resulted in stabilization of inflation and depreciation expectations to the extent the Bank of Russia expected." The news sent the ruble spiraling by as much as 4% against the dollar in intraday action. (Bloomberg)
3. AMZN rallied nearly 14% today following an upbeat earnings report and subsequent round of upbeat analyst notes.
4. The path to riches: how these 3 notable CEOs amassed their fortunes.
5. Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) got slapped with post-earnings bearish backlash from the brokerage bunch.

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

Commodities:

Crude oil enjoyed its best day in more than two years, following reports of a drop-off in U.S. rig counts. By the close, crude for March delivery was up $3.71, or 8.3%, at $48.24 per barrel. On the week, liquid gold tacked on 5.8%, but lost 9.4% on the month.

Gold bounced back from yesterday's steep sell-off, thanks to today's uninspiring GDP report. At session's end, April-dated gold was up $23.30, or 1.9%, to settle at $1,279.20 per ounce. Week-over-week, the malleable metal shed 1%, but added 8% on a monthly basis -- its loftiest monthly percentage gain in three years.

Volatility was the name of the game in today's session, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) trading in a roughly 300-point range. While traders digested the latest round of big-cap earnings reports and a mixed bag of economic data, oil continued to be a key driver -- with the blue-chip barometer seemingly tracking crude's action on both sides of breakeven. Additionally, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) were able to shake off early losses to settle near their session highs.

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

• Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) options traders are hoping for a flop following tonight's quarterly results.
• Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) and Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) took decidedly different routes in the wake of their respective earnings reports.
• Is Pandora Media Inc (NYSE:P) headed to $25? These options traders think so.
• Plus ... Weekly jobless claims take a dive, the European Union (EU) shows support for Ukraine, and NQ Mobile Inc (NYSE:NQ) marks an uninspiring milestone.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,416.85) spent time on both sides of breakeven, but an early afternoon bounce off its 120-day moving average -- a trendline that served as support in mid-December -- helped propel the index up 225.5 points, or 1.3%. Twenty-four of the Dow's 30 components gained ground, led by Boeing Co's (NYSE:BA) 5.8% pop. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) paced the six decliners with its 0.7% decline.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,021.25) spent most of the morning south of the highly watched 2,000 mark, before staging a 19.1-point, or 1%, rebound. In similar fashion, the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,683.41) was in the red for the majority of the day, but closed the session up 45.4 points, or 1%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 18.76) shed 1.7 points, or 8.2%, and surrendered its short-term foothold atop the round-number 20 mark.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Weekly jobless claims fell to their lowest level in almost 15 years last week, according to the Labor Department. Specifically, initial claims dropped 43,000 to a seasonally adjusted 265,000 -- the largest drop in more than two years. Elsewhere on the economic front, pending home sales unexpectedly declined in December.(CNBC; Bloomberg)
2. At a meeting in Brussels today, EU officials voted to extend sanctions against Russia for six months amid escalating tension in Ukraine -- and kept open the possibility of more action. This could potentially include adding new individuals to both the visa-ban and the asset-freeze lists. (ABC News)
3. NQ hit its lowest mark on record today, but options traders think there's more downside ahead.
4. 2 medical device makers that rallied in the wake of their earnings reports -- and subsequent round of bullish brokerage notes.
5. One of the biggest gainers on the Big Board today got a little help from a stellar quarterly earnings report, and a newly inked partnership with Baidu Inc (NASDAQ:BIDU).

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

Commodities:

Crude oil breached the $44 mark in intraday action, amid reports of an influx in supplies at the Cushing, Oklahoma refinery. However, bargain hunters helped liquid gold bounce back, and by session's end, crude for March delivery was up 8 cents, or 0.2%, at $44.53 per barrel.

Gold, on the other hand, fell by the most in 13 months, as the strong reading on jobless claims boosted expectations that a rate hike could come sooner rather than later. At the close, April-dated gold -- the most active contract -- was down $31.30, or 2.4%, at $1,255.90 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) shot higher out of the gate, with help from a well-received earnings report from blue-chip component Boeing Co (NYSE:BA). However, these upbeat quarterly results couldn't save the DJI from a steep supply-related sell-off in crude -- or another call to be "patient" from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) -- and by the close, the 30-stock index was staring at its second consecutive triple-digit loss. It was a similar set-up elsewhere on the Street, as well, with the Nasdaq Composite (COMP) surrendering early gains, and the S&P 500 Index (SPX) testing support atop the highly watched 2,000 mark.

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

• Options bulls rolled the dice on earnings-induced upside for Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) and Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB).
• 2 must-see charts for CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) watchers, courtesy of Schaeffer's contributor Adam Warner.
• Apple Inc.'s (NASDAQ:AAPL) earnings-induced rally had a halo effect for this supplier ahead of its own quarterly results.
• Plus ... A united front from the Fed, crude oil gets dealt another blow, and the M&A rumor mill grinds on.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,191.37) traded in a nearly 300-point range today, before eventually closing down 195.8 points, or 1.1% -- near its session low. Twenty-seven of the Dow's 30 components finished in the red, led by Chevron Corporation's (NYSE:CVX) 4.2% plunge. BA paced the three advancers with its 5.4% pop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,002.16) was up nearly 13 points at its intraday high, before settling with a 27.4-point, or 1.4%, loss. Meanwhile, a big earnings beat for AAPL couldn't help the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,637.99) from giving back 43.5 points, or 0.9%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 20.44) jumped 3.2 points, or 18.7%, to settle above the round-number 20 mark for the first time since Jan. 16.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) wrapped up its first two-day policy setting meeting of the year today, pledging to be "patient" in regard to interest-rate hikes, as inflation levels continue to churn below the Fed's 2% target. However, in a released statement, the central bank said, "Economic activity has been expanding at a solid pace ... Labor market conditions have improved further, with strong job gains and a lower unemployment rate." All 10 members voted in favor of today's policy statement -- the first time a unanimous vote has been cast since June. (Bloomberg)
2. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) said domestic crude inventories soared by nearly 9 million barrels last week to 407 million -- the highest level on record. The consensus forecast was for a more modest rise of 4 million barrels. The news -- as well as a dreary outlook on oil from Goldman Sachs -- sent liquid gold tumbling to a nearly six-year low. (Reuters)
3. Merger-and-acquisition-related rumors hit the Street in force today, impacting the price action -- and options activity -- of Advent Software, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADVS), Lifelock Inc (NYSE:LOCK), and Sunedison Inc (NYSE:SUNE) to name a few.
4. Wall Street was quick to weigh in on Freeport-McMoRan Inc (NYSE:FCX) following its dismal turn in the earnings confessional.
5. How one Under Armour Inc (NYSE:UA) trader got crafty with his long put spread.

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

Commodities:

Crude oil plunged today, following the FOMC's promise to be patient on raising interest rates, as well as an unexpected surge in domestic stockpiles and the aforementioned bearish note from Goldman Sachs. By the close, crude for March delivery was down $1.78, or 3.9%, to $44.45 per barrel -- its lowest settlement since March 2009.

Gold lost ground this afternoon, following the FOMC's dovish policy statement. At session's end, February-dated gold was down $5.80, or 0.4%, to close at $1,285.90 per ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) kicked off the session with a triple-digit drop and never looked back. The bearish stars aligned as a basket of blue chips unveiled unimpressive earnings reports -- led by disappointments from Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT) -- and selling pressure was exacerbated by a surprise drop in durable goods orders. In after-hours action, traders are digesting the latest numbers from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), and biting their nails ahead of tomorrow's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) policy statement.

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

• AAPL is higher in after-hours action. Did eleventh-hour traders get it right?
• Breaking down the brokerage backlash for MSFT.
• Why Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:BABA) dipped ahead of earnings.
• Plus ... Consumer confidence soars, uninspiring housing stats, and Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) and GoPro Inc (NASDAQ:GPRO) buck the trend.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,387.21) was down more than 390 points at its intraday low, and gave up 291.5 points, or 1.7%, by the time the bell mercifully sounded. Just United Technologies Corporation (NYSE:UTX) settled north of breakeven, eking out a 0.4% gain, while MSFT led the 29 declining equities with a 9.3% drop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,029.55) traveled a similar path, shedding 27.5 points, or 1.3%. The tech-rich Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,681.50) fared the worst of its peers, surrendering 90.3 points, or 1.9%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 17.22) soared 1.7 points, or 11%.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Orders for durable goods unexpectedly fell 3.4% in December, compared to expectations for a 0.1% uptick. On the flip side, consumer confidence jumped to its highest point since August 2007 in January, according to the Conference Board's consumer confidence index. (MarketWatch)
2. Single-family home price growth dipped to a two-year low in November, per the S&P/Case-Shiller index, though the report arrived in line with expectations. Specifically, the 20-city index rose 4.3% year-over-year, marking the slowest rate of appreciation since October 2012. (Reuters)
3. NFLX sat out the sell-off, triggering a wave of bullish options action.
4. Likewise, GPRO took the road less traveled, and one trader constructed a cautiously optimistic spread.
5. Analysts responded to unimpressive guidance from Peabody Energy Corporation (BTU) and Dunkin Brands Group Inc (DNKN).

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

Commodities:

A softer greenback translated into a rebound for dollar-denominated crude, with the commodity snapping its three-day skid ahead of tomorrow's weekly inventories report. By the close, March-dated crude added $1.08, or 2.4%, to settle at $46.23 per barrel.

Gold also gained ground on the heels of a weaker dollar, and as traders sought "safe haven" investments in the wake of a sell-off in equities. Ahead of tomorrow's policy statement from the Fed, gold for February delivery tacked on $12.30, or 1%, to end at $1,291.70 an ounce.

Figuratively speaking, it was a hot-and-cold session on Wall Street today. In the literal sense, Wall Street -- and all of New York City -- was asked to "prepare for something worse than we have seen before" by Mayor Bill de Blasio, as Winter Storm Juno approached the Northeast. As traders hunkered down -- and digested results of the weekend snap election in Greece -- the Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) and its sector peers fluctuated between gains and losses, but the blue-chip barometer ultimately resolved to the upside (albeit barely).

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

• Regulatory nods translated into headlines for Shire PLC (ADR) (NASDAQ:SHPG) and Rockwell Medical Inc (NASDAQ:RMTI).
• The packaging company and semiconductor stock making moves amid M&A buzz.
• Why Ocwen Financial Corp (NYSE:OCN) and this sector peer soared today.
• Plus ... Airlines, Amtrak, and Uber prepare for snow, option traders bet on record highs for Mylan Inc (NASDAQ:MYL), and analysts take aim at Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) ahead of earnings .

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,678.70) explored a range of nearly 129 points, but essentially called it a draw by the close, adding 6.1 points, or 0.03%. Chevron Corporation (NYSE:CVX) paced the 17 gainers, tacking on 1.9%, while Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) led the 13 decliners with a 1.8% drop.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,057.09) also traded on both sides of breakeven, but finished with a gain of 5.3 points, or 0.3%. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,771.76) dropped out of the gate, but clawed its way higher by midday, adding 13.9 points, or 0.3%.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 15.52) gave up 1.1 points, or 6.8%, to settle at a session low, marking the "fear barometer's" first finish south of 16 in 2015.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. Ahead of Winter Storm Juno, airlines canceled more than 3,500 flights, and Amtrak even warned that it "may re-evaluate" its rail schedule "as conditions warrant." However, the NYSE and Nasdaq plan to maintain the status quo tomorrow. (CNBC; MarketWatch)
2. Uber, meanwhile, said it will cap its surge pricing in New York at "2.8x the normal fare," and according to the company's policy, proceeds during a "disaster or state of emergency" will be donated to the American Red Cross. (TechCrunch)
3. Did a new licensing agreement spark a shift in sentiment for Universal Display Corporation (NASDAQ:OLED)?
4. Why option traders are gambling on all-time highs for MYL.
5. Analysts at BMO weighed in on PFE ahead of earnings tomorrow.

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

Commodities:

Crude futures finished a wishy-washy session in the red, even after Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretary-General Abdalla el-Badri opined that oil prices could rebound "very soon" -- and climb as high as $200 per barrel, "if [producers] don't invest in oil and gas." By the close, March-dated crude fell 44 cents, or 1%, to $45.15 per barrel.

Gold extended its retreat, with traders taking profits after the radical Syriza party won a snap election in Greece. February-dated gold gave up $13.20, or 0.1%, to finish at $1,279.40 an ounce.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) and S&P 500 Index (SPX) snapped their four-session winning streaks today, amid a round of disappointing economic data and an ongoing sell-off in crude. Specifically, existing home sales for December and the flash reading for Markit's manufacturing purchasing managers index both underwhelmed the Street -- as did United Parcel Service, Inc.'s (NYSE:UPS) fourth-quarter guidance. On the earnings front, General Electric Company (NYSE:GE) beat estimates, while fellow Dow component McDonald's Corporation (NYSE:MCD) missed.

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

• M&A buzz had Expedia Inc (NASDAQ:EXPE) and Zillow Inc (NASDAQ:Z) flying high.
• This social media stock rallied on positive brokerage attention.
• Making sense of Starbucks Corporation's (NASDAQ:SBUX) huge day.
• Plus ... Leading indicators top estimates, a massive IPO, and an interesting week for Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,672.60) ended near a session low, down 141.4 points, or 0.8%. Twenty-four of the Dow's 30 components fell, paced by a 2.1% drop at Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM). Meanwhile, GE led a group of six advancers, gaining 0.8%. For the week, the blue-chip index added 0.9%, halting a four-week losing streak.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,051.82) shed 11.3 points, or 0.6%, but still jumped 1.6% week-over-week. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,757.88) bucked the bearish trend, closing with a 7.5-point, or 0.2%, lead. On a weekly basis, the COMP popped 2.7%. The weekly gains mark the first in five for both the SPX and COMP.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.66) muscled 0.3 point, or 1.6%, higher -- but still lost 20.5% week-over-week.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. The Conference Board's index of leading economic indicators rose for a fourth consecutive month in December. Specifically, the index picked up a slightly better-than-expected 0.5% last month, helped by an improving job market and falling gas prices. (Bloomberg)
2. Enterprise cloud company Box Inc (NYSE:BOX) soared more than 65% in its public debut today. The firm already has roughly 44,000 paying customers -- though it has yet to turn a profit. (CNBC)
3. Why TWTR was worth following over the past few days.
4. Options traders responded to the latest Ebola vaccine news on this pharmaceutical firm.
5. The Dow component that blew past expectations in the earnings confessional.

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

Commodities:

Crude futures dropped following the death of Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, which created uncertainty about the future of the nation's oil output. Also weighing on liquid gold was a buildup in stockpiles at an Oklahoma storage hub, and a partial shutdown at an Indiana refinery. By the close, oil for March delivery was down 72 cents, or 1.6%, at $45.59 -- its lowest settlement in nearly six years. On a week-over-week basis, crude gave back 6.4%.

Gold fell back below the $1,300 level, pressured by a strengthening dollar. The February-dated contract lost $8.10, or 0.6%, to settle at $1,292.60. For the week, however, the malleable metal gained 1.2% -- for a third straight weekly win.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (INDEXDJX:DJI) soared on the European Central Bank's (ECB) stimulus announcement, finishing with a triple-digit gain. By day's end, the blue-chip benchmark notched a fourth straight daily win, but fell just short of its year-to-date breakeven level. Meanwhile, the Dow's peers -- specifically, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Nasdaq Composite (COMP) -- also staged healthy rallies, while the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) plunged amid growing investor confidence. Elsewhere, crude resumed its downtrend following the latest inventory data.

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

• 2 momentum stocks that were popular among short-term option bulls.
• Another round of layoffs for United States Steel Corporation (NYSE:NYSE:X) sparked a rush of put buying.
• Groupon Inc (NASDAQ:GRPN) popped today -- and these traders think more upside is in store.
• Plus ... Details on Europe's quantitative easing (QE), unemployment filings dip, and more post-earnings gains for Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI - 17,813.98) spent nearly the entire session north of breakeven, and closed with a gain of 259.7 points, or 1.5%. All but three of the Dow's components ended higher, paced by a 4.1% post-earnings advance from UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:UNH). The losing trio was led by American Express Company (NYSE:AXP), which gave back 3.8% after its disappointing turn in the confessional.

The S&P 500 Index (SPX - 2,063.15) popped 31 points, or 1.5%, while the Nasdaq Composite (COMP - 4,750.40) added 83 points, or 1.8%. Both indexes also muscled atop their respective year-to-date breakeven marks.

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX - 16.40) stumbled 2.5 points, or 13%, for its lowest daily close of 2015.

5 Items on Our Radar Today:

1. ECB President Mario Draghi announced a $1.3 trillion QE program that will kick off in March. Specifically, the central bank committed to buying roughly $70 billion in bonds each month through September 2016, in an effort to prop up the nearly stagnant eurozone economy. (Bloomberg)
2. First-time jobless claims fell by 10,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 307,000, the Labor Department reported. However, economists had forecast a sharper drop to 300,000. (Reuters)
3. The post-earnings momentum continued for NFLX -- and options traders are hoping for more.
4. A trio of stocks that benefited from analyst-induced tailwinds.
5. Traders are gambling on major upside for this struggling Internet issue.

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

Commodities:

Crude plummeted on news that U.S. stockpiles rose more than expected last week, bringing them to their loftiest level in roughly eight decades for this point in the year. Oil for March delivery lost $1.47, or 3.1%, to settle at $46.31 per barrel.

Gold took back the $1,300 level, following the ECB's QE announcement and Denmark's decision to reduce its key interest rate for the second time in a week. By the close, the February-dated contract had added $7, or 0.5%, to land at $1,300.70 per ounce.