Summary: Stocks shook off early losses on slowing growth overseas and turned positive in midday trading Thursday on upbeat economic data in the U.S. Existing home sales in October unexpectedly rose in October hitting 5.26 million. The leading indicators index, used to predict economic health, also came in better than forecasts rising 0.9% last month. American retailers are rallying in the session after positive earnings results. Williams-Sonoma (WSM) and Best Buy (BBY) are sharply rising. Both companies beat profit and revenue estimates. Shares of Gap (GPS) are trading in positive territory ahead of its earnings release. The retailer is next in line to report after market closes.
