Dow Jones Industry Average closed lower on pessimistic consumer spending data

Dow Jones Industrial Average Index traded lower on Thursday on speculation that US consumers  spent less than expected last month and Chinese economy may be experiencing worse slowdown than earlier predicted. Blue chip index dropped 0.36% or 47.15 points and closed at 12,896.67. Banks led the loss for the index after ECB lowered is key rate by quarter point and disappointed many investors who awaited more stimulus. Bank of America fell 3% and J P Morgan Chase & Co tumbled 4.2%.  Exxon Mobil and Chevron gave up 0.8% and 1.3% as August crude oil futures faded below USD86 per barrel.