The Nasdaq Composite Index is off 8 points and the Standard-and-Poor's 500 Stock Index is down 7 points.
Before the opening bell, there was fresh evidence of the troubles facing the economy, with new claims for unemployment benefits rising to a 16-year high.
Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal says he plans to increase his stake in Citigroup to 5 percent. Citigroup shares hit a 15-year low yesterday.
Investors remain concerned that the plan to give U.S. automakers billions of dollars in government-backed loans has stalled.
Still to come this morning, the Conference Board is to release the leading indicators for October, seen declining.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/11/215390