The major indexes struggled to find direction today, ultimately ending the session lower. The blue-chip index managed some modest midday gains but eventually settled off 66 points. The S&P 500 and tech-heavy Nasdaq moved red as well, while the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) finished flat, after earlier hitting its highest mark since late May. Driving markets has been the rising 10-year treasury yield, which held tight to its November peak. 

GOLD LOGS 3-STRAIGHT LOSSES

A production cut extension in Saudi Arabia sent crude prices higher this afternoon. September-dated crude added $2.06, or 2.6%, to settle at $81.55 per barrel.

Gold extended its losing streak to three as bond yields and yesterday's broader-market slip weighed. December-dated gold shed $6.20, or 0.3%, to settle at $1,968.80 an ounce.

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