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The Dow Jones index advanced 0.6% to 13,248.44 reaching its highest level since end October. All but one sector within the index edged higher. Basic Materials, Communications and Health care shares improved the most by adding 1.12%, 1.07% and 1.03%, respectively, whereas Consumer services sector slightly decreased by 0.37%. Among the best performing companies was Intel Corporation, 3M Co and Merck & Co by surging 2.94%, 1.97% and 1.60%, subsequently. Intel shares advanced despite bearish reports. Miller Tabak & Co published their view on Intel stocks saying that the company is suffering from negative growth in the personal computer market and overstock. Meanwhile, Wal-Mart Stores declined the most by 1.75%, as India's government announced an inquiry of Wal-Mart's lobbying activities. Only three other companies within the index eased. Bank of America lost 0.57%, Home Depot erased 0.24% and Cisco systems decreased 0.05%.