Personal computer giant Dell Inc. and apparel retailer Gap Inc. are each expected to post a decline of 25% in quarterly earnings during Thursday's late-trading session.

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) - Technology stocks fell Thursday as a harsh view of the semiconductor market and pessimism about the economic recovery contributed to broad losses across the sector.

U.S. stock futures pointed to a downbeat start Thursday, as pessimism surrounding the world economy weighed on markets. See Indications.

Among the shares expected to see active trade in Thursday's session are Aetna, Campbell Soup, Hot Topic, Jack in the Box, Limited, NetApp, Sears, Sony and Stage Stores.

Dr. Pangloss the effervescent optimist in Voltaire’s novel Candide may have kindred spirits at the National Association for Business Economics.The Washington DC-based trade group representing about 1 500 businesses says greater numbers of US companies are reporting increased demand and higher profit suggesting an end to the recession.The NABE “net rising index” for demand climbed to 23 in the third quarter the first time it had increased in five quarters. The index represents the percentage of respondents reporting an increase in demand minus the percentage reporting a decrease. The index stood at -5 in July. The current survey was ...

NOTE TO EDITORS: The Following Is an Investment Opinion Being Issued by TheFortuneFinancial.com.

NOTE TO EDITORS: The Following Is an Investment Opinion Being Issued by AnalystChoice.com (AC).