Investors look for seams of gold after selling spree

US STOCKS are seen flat to a little higher in choppy trade this week, as investors, with little major economic data to guide them, brace for tech giant Cisco Systems earnings.

After weeks of selling, investors are looking for seams of gold. But they are also trigger-happy, wary of fresh scandals and quick to sell any rallies.

“It will continue to be volatile,” said Joe Stocke, portfolio manager with StoneRidge Investment Partners, which oversees $800 million. “Investors are nervous about corporate earnings being reported and possible restatements, and also nervous about the strength of the economy.”