U.S. stocks close in a split

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NEW YORK, Jan. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. stock indexes were mixed Thursday in New York, despite positive economic data.

The Nasdaq index of tech-oriented stock dropped 0.74 percent, or 23.29 points, to 3,130.38 at the close. The DJIA gave up some early gains, but remained positive, adding 46 points, or 0.33 percent, to 13,825.33.

The Standard & Poor's 500 index gained 0.01 points, less than 0.01, to close the day at 1,494.82.

On the New York Stock Exchange, 1,698 stocks advanced and 1,330 declined on a volume of 3.6 billion shares traded.

Positive data came from the Conference Board's Leading Indicator Index, which climbed 0.5 percent in December, ahead of expectations. The Labor Department said 5,000 fewer first-time unemployment benefit claims were filed in the week, adding to a drop of 37,000 in the previous week.

Markit Economics added to the encouraging news. The research firm said the U.S. manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index jumped in January with new orders climbing at the fastest month-to-month pace in 32 months.

The 10-year treasury note fell 7/32 to yield 1.852 percent.

Against the dollar, the euro was $1.3368 from Wednesday's $1.3318. The dollar rose against the yen, hitting 89.9 yen from 88.62 yen.

In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 index gained 1.28 percent, 133.88 points, to 10,620.87.

In London, the FTSE 100 index added 1.09 percent, 67.27 points, to 6,264.91.