The Index of Leading Economic Indicators surprised on the upside, increasing by 0.6 percent, whereas a 0.2 percent rise was expected.

FORBES: Election Weeks Away, New Concern Over U.S. Corporate Earnings

Separately, an index of leading economic indicators posted an unexpected fall in March, as consumers turned gloomy on the economic outlook.

WSJ: Blue Chips Fall 81 Points

After nudging up in November for the first time since April 2007, our index of leading economic indicators fell during December and January to its lowest level in at least five years.

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Index of leading economic indicators fell.

NPR: Drop In Oil Prices Helps Send Dow Lower, Too

U.S. economic data due for release Thursday includes the third-quarter GDP estimate, the weekly jobless claims report, the Chicago Fed national activity index, the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, the U.S. house price index and leading economic indicators.

FORBES: Comex Gold Near Steady Amid Quieter, Pre-Holiday Trading