Analysts Split on Strength of December Economic Gain
Government data show the Index of Leading Indicators up 2.1 percent in December, the fourth straight rise, with factory orders up 1.2 percent and new-home sales up 12.7 percent for a strong year. Analysts remain divided on whether this signals durable growth or is inflated by one-time factors. The stock market edged lower while the dollar weakened amid policy uncertainty.