But a continued drop in interest rates could help stabilize a slowing economy, providing easier credit for businesses and home buyers.

Also helping the stock market yesterday may have been the continued drop in the dollar, which finished at a seven-year low against the mark.

Because of the continued drop in prices, some OPEC officials said the organization might be under pressure to hold an emergency meeting soon.

Consumers would also be hurt, financially and psychologically, by a continued drop in stock prices.

City leaders credit a sustained focus on repeat violent offenders and increased community engagement for the continued drop, reflecting a nationwide decline in crime.

The other changing factor is the continued drop in Mr. Bush's job-approval rating that could make him less welcome on the campaign trail.

The continued drop in theme park business was a surprise to analysts.

Producer prices held steady in August as a continued drop in food costs helped to offset rising energy prices.

But the continued drop in unemployment may mean that much of the summer hiring was permanent instead of seasonal.

Some experts are worried that a continued drop in the dollar could also stop the current rally in its tracks.