Stocks, the dollar, and emerging market currencies around the world remained under pressure for a second day yesterday after China devalued its currency again, boosting the appeal of top-rated government bonds.

US stocks ended a temperamental session moderately higher today as investors bought up the stocks of energy, materials and consumer-staple companies, but remained cautious about the beleaguered financial sector.

Wall Street pulled back today as investors uneasy after a drop in consumer confidence traded cautiously ahead of the Federal Reserve’s rate decision.