U.S. stocks struggle to make gains, Nasdaq however adds 18 points Lola Evans U.S. stocks were directionless on Wednesday with minor adjustments in all major indices. The Nasdaq did best, rising 18.46 points or 0.13 percent to 14,271.73. The Dow Jones industrials dropped 71.34 points or 0.21 percent to 33,874.24. NEW YORK, New York - U.S. stocks were directionless on Wednesday with minor adjustments in all major indices. The Nasdaq did best, rising 18.46 points or 0.13 percent to 14,271.73. The Dow Jones industrials dropped 71.34 points or 0.21 percent to 33,874.24. The Standard and Poor's 500 slipped 4.58 points or 0.11 percent to 4,241.86. The currency markets were quiet with the U.S. dollar edging higher after dipping earlier during the Asian and European trading zones.