Friday's early afternoon trade: shares little changed in quiet end to 2010

US stocks were little changed on Friday, the final day of the year, as investors were reluctant to make big bets after a rally that put the S&P on track for its best December performance in nearly two decades. The benchmark index has gained 6.6 percent so far this month, closing Wednesday at its highest level since September 8, 2008, and has risen in 17 of the last 21 sessions.
The index is on course for its biggest December gain since 1991, when it rose 11.2 percent. From its July low the S&P has risen 23 percent, boosted by improving economic data, positive earnings reports and stimulus measures by the US Federal Reserve. Investors will closely watch a host of data next week for any incentives to take profits or extend the rally.
The Dow Jones industrial average was up 9.46 points, or 0.08 percent, at 11,579.17. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index was down 0.28 points, or 0.02 percent, at 1,257.60. The Nasdaq Composite Index was down 10.94 points, or 0.41 percent, at 2,652.04.