U.S. stocks fell Friday, ending the longest winning streak for the Dow Jones industrial average in nearly 17 years.
The Carnival Triumph is being towed to a port in Mexico after an engine room fire knocked out the ship's power. Carnival could have to refund money to lots of disappointed customers. The company is also under investigation for possible violations, and could face a huge fine.
Investor uncertainty, the fiscal cliff debate, and the misadventures of some high-profile initial public offerings last year have led to a lack of new issues recently. But that's about to change.
Market leader Carnival issued disappointing guidance during last week's quarterly report. Rival Royal Caribbean is running into obstacles in financing its next mega-ship. Norwegian Cruise Line wasn't in the news, but NCL hasn't been able to complete its IPO since calling it off last year.
Late-season earnings could help ring in some early holiday cheer for investors this week. Analysts expect strong results from Nike, Bed Bath & Beyond, Darden Restaurants -- which operates Olive Garden and Red Lobster -- and electronics company Jabil Circuit.






