The first trading day of October saw the Dow shed 74 points for its eighth loss in 10 sessions and lowest close since June 2. The September scaries bled into a new month for at least one day, even after U.S. lawmakers agreed to a short-term deal that prevented a government shutdown. Technology and communications were the broader market's only positive sectors today, though the S&P 500 still finished in the red and the Nasdaq managed a fractional win. 

OIL FUTURES FALL TO 3-WEEK LOW

Oil futures settled lower to start October, dragged down to a three-week low by a stronger U.S. dollar, profit taking, and forecast concerns about rising crude supplies and demand pressure. Crude for November delivery lost $1.97, or 2.2%, to settle at $88.82 per barrel.

Gold prices settled lower too, settling at its lowest level since March as they head for a "death-cross" -- a technical term that usually indicates bearishness. December-dated gold shed $18.90, or 1%, to close at $1,87.20 an ounce on the day.

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