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Dow Jones closes at record high Dow Jones closes at record high
(about 6 hours later)
The Dow Jones Industrial Average index closes at a record high after strong earnings and investor confidence that interest rates are stable. The Dow Jones Industrial Average index closed at a record high after strong earnings and investor confidence that interest rates are stable.
The Dow closed 51.99 points up at 12,673.68, after earlier hitting a new intra-day record of 12,682.57.The Dow closed 51.99 points up at 12,673.68, after earlier hitting a new intra-day record of 12,682.57.
Exxon Mobil shares rose 1.3% as annual profits hit $25.36bn (£12.94bn).Exxon Mobil shares rose 1.3% as annual profits hit $25.36bn (£12.94bn).
Mild consumer price rises, and the Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates on hold a day earlier signalled that inflation was in check.Mild consumer price rises, and the Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates on hold a day earlier signalled that inflation was in check.
While there have been fears in recent months about a slowdown in manufacturing as well as a shrinking housing market, Federal Reserve comments on Thursday pointed to a solid economy.While there have been fears in recent months about a slowdown in manufacturing as well as a shrinking housing market, Federal Reserve comments on Thursday pointed to a solid economy.
Figures showing the economy grew 3.5% in the final three months of 2006 - faster than forecast - helped to reassure investors.Figures showing the economy grew 3.5% in the final three months of 2006 - faster than forecast - helped to reassure investors.
Mike Binger, portfolio manager for Thrivent Financial said: "Interest rates are in check, the economy is doing well, inflation seems under control and earnings look good."Mike Binger, portfolio manager for Thrivent Financial said: "Interest rates are in check, the economy is doing well, inflation seems under control and earnings look good."
As well as Exxon, other climbers were Dupont, which added 2.06%, while Boeing rose 1.66% and Alcoa rose 1.55%.As well as Exxon, other climbers were Dupont, which added 2.06%, while Boeing rose 1.66% and Alcoa rose 1.55%.