Notes on FOMC Decision and Earnings After the Close

Major stock market indexes finished in the green today, bolstered somewhat by the expected "no move" decided by the Fed at its latest Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, which concluded today. Volatility picked up on the news headline and subsequent press conference with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh. The Dow was up +71 points, the Nasdaq +72 and the S&P 500 +21 points. The small-cap Russell 2000 Index gained 6 points on the regular trading session. Two Dissents as Fed Keeps Rates Unchanged The FOMC today delivered the expected headline: "No Change to Fed Funds Rate." In a 10-2 vote, the Fed decided to keep interest rates at their +3.75-4.00% range.