Good News, July | featured news

Payroll firm ADP said private businesses added 114,000 jobs in July, more than expected, but similarly strong figures last month contrasted with government data.

Sales of U.S. homes rose 7.6% in August -- recovering from their steep descent in July, when the end of a popular government stimulus program drove sales to their lowest levels in more than a decade.

Consumer spending rose at the strongest pace in four months in July, supported by a small gain in incomes, offering hope that consumers will be able to keep contributing to a modest recovery.

New month starts higher after European bank profits boost U.S. financials.

Orders for durable goods rebounded sharply in July, up 4.9%, staging their biggest gain in two years on demand for planes and capital goods.

Even as the July numbers came in better than expected, the job market remains shaky in the months ahead.