Energy and Utility Stocks Remain Strong

(MONEY Magazine) – Slower sales of Boston Scientific's leading stent will likely contribute to a disappointing third quarter. Over the past year, shares have fallen 37%. Retailer Limited Brands, which closed 40 stores due to Hurricane Katrina, saw same-store sales fall 3% in August. The stock was down 12% for the month ending Sept. 15. The S&P 500's Utilities and Energy sectors continue to shine. They were up 6.6% and 6.1% for the month.

S&P 500 SECTOR AVERAGES

How the 10 major market sectors performed

NOTES: As of Sept. 15. P/E ratios are based on projected 2005 earnings. Earnings growth is compound annual rate projected for five years by analysts covering the stock. SOURCE: Thomson/Baseline.