While the S&P 500 grew 1%, the Financial sector (XLF) showed little movement during trading today.

Summit Financial Group (SMMF) was one of the sector's big losers, as its price dropped 7.9% (-47 cents) to close at $5.49. 1,666 shares of the stock moved. The stock traded between $5.49 and $5.76.

Lazard (LAZ) was a major gainer in the sector, rising 6.6% (+$1.61) to close at $25.86 with 1.9 million shares moving. The stock traded in a range of $24.71 to $26.29. Share price is up, having risen $2.95 (12.9%) from $22.91 on May 18, 2012.

World Acceptance (WRLD) rose 4.5% to close at $69.09, crossing its 50-day moving average of $66.98. Meanwhile, PennantPark Investment (PNNT) dropped 2.6% to close at $9.98, moving below its 200-day moving average or $10.32.

MetLife (MET) rose 5% to close at $30.88, approaching its 50-day moving average of $31.28. It has also moved closer to its 200-day moving average of $34.11.

Alliance Data Systems Corporation (ADS) hit a new 52-week high today, reaching $132.10 to top the previous high of $131.