U.S. Stocks Open Lower Ahead Of Home-sales Data

U.S. stocks on Wednesday edged lower at the open as investors awaited data on sales of existing homes in July. The S&P 500 index lost 2 points, or 0.1%, to 2,185. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 21 points, or 0.1%, to 18,525. The Nasdaq Composite Index shed 6 points, or 0.1%, to 5,254. Markets have been placid as investors await remarks from Federal Reserve Chairwoman Janet Yellen, who is slated to speak Friday. Some expect Yellen to deliver guidance about the Fed's plans for interest rates at a retreat on Friday in Jackson Hole, Wyo.