While the S&P 500 grew 2.2%, the Basic Materials sector (XLB) showed little movement during trading today.

Methanex Corporation (MEOH) was a significant gainer in the sector, rising 7.1%. The stock closed at $29.31 with 613,834 shares moving. The stock traded in a range of $27.80 to $29.35. The share price has dropped $3.86 (-11.6%) from $33.17 on May 7, 2012.

GSE Holdings (GSE) was a major loser in the sector, falling 6.6% (-70 cents) to close at $9.86 with 114,412 shares moving. The stock traded in a range of $9.73 to $10.68.

Universal Forest Products (UFPI) rose 4.3% to close at $36.51, crossing its 50-day moving average of $36.29. Meanwhile, Aurizon Mines Ltd.(USA (AZK) dropped 5.5% to close at $5, moving below its 200-day moving average or $5.10.

Rio Tinto plc (RIO) rose 4.5% to close at $44.85, approaching its 50-day moving average of $49.04. It has also moved closer to its 200-day moving average of $53.06.