U.S. Stocks Open Lower After Weaker Data

U.S. stocks opened slightly lower after a batch of weaker-than-expected data. Widely watched inflation figure came in below expectations. Consumer prices tumbled, largely due to a plunge in oil prices. A larger-than-expected jump in weekly jobless claims also worried investors. The S&P 500 opened 3 points, or 0.2%, lower at 2,110.63. The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened down 24 points, or 0.1%, at 18,197, retreating slightly from the record level reached on Wednesday. The Nasdaq Composite began the session a point off at 4,967.