Closing Bell: Barclays Settles Mortgage Suits; Energy Slides

Stocks were slightly higher at Monday's close after an indecisive day of trading. Energy stocks were the worst performers after West Texas Intermediate crude closed at its lowest level since October 2. Barclays (BCS) reached a settlement with the U.S. National Credit Union Administration. The $325 million settlement will resolve two civil suits related to residential mortgage-backed securities. PMC-Sierra (PMCS) jumped after chipmaker Microsemi (MSCC) made a $2.2 billion bid, better than the $2 billion offer Skyworks Solutions (SWKS) made two weeks ago. Valeant Pharmaceuticals (VRX) slumped despite a better-than-expected third quarter and increased full-year guidance.

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