Summary: Stocks brushed off earlier worries on global slowdown to finish higher Thursday. The Dow and S&P 500 hit a record close as investors decided to focus more on positive economic data at home. Energy was today's best performing sector with Newfield Exploration (NFX) helping to lead the way, along with blue chip Chesapeake Energy (CHK). Homebuilders had a good showing. Lennar (LEN), KB Home (KBH) and Beazer Homes (BZH) all gained more than 2% on strong existing home sales. Shares of Wynn Resorts (WYNN) tumbled on reports the casino operator was being investigated for money laundering. Apple (AAPL) closed better than 1% higher after it was revised higher at some Wall Street firms. Piper Jaffray, Evercore and Morgan Stanley (MS) increased their price target on the stock. Intel (INTC) was the bigger tech gainer. The stock added more than 4.66% after giving an upbeat outlook for 2015 revenue and raised its dividend.
