The Dow Jones industrial average reached another record close today as investors largely looked past economic and earnings reports that had stirred concerns about the health of the US economy.

Wall Street pulled back sharply today as a lack of economic news left investors hesitant to buy stocks ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision next week.

Wall Street’s hopes of prolonging its year-end rally suffered another blow today as cautious traders sold off stocks and the technology sector posted a steep decline.

Investors concerned about slowing economic growth in the United States sent stocks sharply lower today after the Federal Reserve said it would continue raising interest rates.

Wall Street’s 2005 slump extended into a third session today as renewed concerns about inflation and higher interest rates sapped confidence from buyers.