Most U.S. Stocks Fall as Investors Weigh Data, Stimulus

Most U.S. stocks fell after paring early losses for a second day, as investors weighed prospects of economic growth with concern the Federal Reserve will reduce stimulus efforts.

Gap Inc. and Abercrombie & Fitch Co. slipped more than 1.7 percent after their earnings forecasts trailed analyst projections. Sears Holdings Corp. sank 14 percent as the retailer controlled by billionaire hedge-fund manager Edward Lampert posted a loss. Procter & Gamble Co. surged 4 percent after replacing Chief Executive Officer Bob McDonald with his predecessor, A.G. Lafley.