Pulse: Net Stocks End Mixed, as Viant Drags Down E-Consulting Firms

Tech stocks closed off highs but ended a highly successful week on a positive note, despite traders' urge to take profits into the long weekend.

The Nasdaq closed up 27.92, ,or 0.66%, at 4234.27, though it had traded as high as 4259.87 on economic data that suggested the Federal Reserve could be out of the markets' face for some time. Internet stocks were mixed. TheStreet.com Internet Sector index closed up 6.31, or 0.75%, at 846.77. Traders were encouraged to take profits as the Nasdaq neared key resistance at the July 17 high of 4289, but others were quick to buy on the dip, sensing good things to come when traders come back from the holiday.

Net/Tech Indices INDEX CHANGE % VALUE TSC Internet +6.31 +0.75% 846.77 TSC E-Commerce +0.68 +1.52% 45.97 TSC E-Finance +0.25 +0.5% 49.27 Nasdaq +27.9 +0.67% 4234.27

Worst performers in the Internet sector were e-consulting companies. They were pummeled by an earnings warning from Viant (VIAN Quote). Viant closed down $5.69, or 41%, to $8.19, and dragged down a number of others as well. ...