Ohio Association of Mortgage Professionals

Wal-Mart Paces Dow Rally Stocks ended slightly higher, despite declines in Caterpillar and Exxon, as Wal-Mart led strong gains in the consumer-staples sector.

After being down all day, the Dow and S&P eked out gains Monday, led by Walmart after an analyst upgrade on the stock. Plus financials rebounded slightly amid relief after Sen. Chris Dodd unveiled his financial-reform bill.

Dow Ekes Out Gain, Buoyed by Walmart