A Green Session

Indices closed well into the green zone Friday. Walt Disney, Bank of America, Intel, and Caterpillar led the way. Stocks stepped up on signs that Italy and Greece are moving toward efforts to rein in Europe’s debt crisis. Meanwhile, consumer confidence is up this month. University of Michigan’s preliminary index of consumer sentiment rose to 64.2, from a revised 60.9 in October. The result exceeded an expected reading of 61.5. On another note, crude oil added $1.21 to settle at $98.99 a barrel. Looking ahead, home-improvement retailers Home Depot and Lowe’s will issue earnings details next week. 

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