Some real estate agents were pleased that despite the difficulties in 2001, there was still a 7 percent climb in luxury sales.

By contrast, in 1995, 341 stocks were responsible for the index's 37.6 percent climb.

About 80 percent of the September increase, however, reflected a 4.5 percent climb for fruits and vegetables that analysts said was most unlikely to continue.

At the same time, the index for France rose 1.6 percent, after a 16.6 percent climb in the second quarter.

It was the steepest increase since a 12.2 percent climb in January.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Dow's ascent is the 50 percent climb since this time a year ago.

The bank has raised rates four times in the last six months, fueling an 8 percent climb by the British pound against the euro.

Afterward, officials said, the amount hit $210,000, a 40 percent climb.

In 1995, by contrast, 341 stocks were responsible for the index's 37.6 percent climb.

Reaching that target would take a 48 percent climb from where the Dow closed yesterday.