U.S. stocks rise; S&P 500 hits intraday high
Jobless claims drop more than expected; Staples, Costco slump on earnings miss
NEW YORK (MarketWatch) — The U.S. stock market rose on Thursday, sending the S&P 500 into record territory, as investors digested a number of economic reports and speeches from several Federal Reserve officials.

The S&P 500 (SNC:SPX) added 6.35 points, or 0.3%, to 1,879.29, hitting an intraday high. If the index closes at this level or higher, it will be its 50th record in the past 12 months.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI JIA) gained 81 points, or 0.5%, to 16,439.64. The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQ:COMP) added 8.04 points, or 0.2%, to 4,366.37. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/us-stocks-ri...2014-03-06