Investment Figures of the Week

Investment Figures of the Week

COMMENTARY

A dreary week in the world financial markets. U.S. stocks were generally

lackluster, as both stocks and bonds continued to meander aimlessly. Small- and

midsize-company stocks were off 0.7%. Bonds were also undistinguished

performers, with both long- and short-term interest rates edging upward.

Inflation expectations continued to dog the markets, with traders discouraged

on July 27 by word of a greater-than-expected rise in durable-goods orders

during June.