Major U.S. stock-indexes rallied on Thursday, boosted by Apple and lackluster economic data that further dimmed the prospects of an interest rate hike in the near term. Retail sales and industrial activity fell more than expected in August. The data follows reports showing a slowdown in job growth and a slump in manufacturing activity for the month. However, jobless claims rose less than expected last week, indicating strength in the labor market - a key barometer the Federal Reserve considers while deciding monetary policy.

Most of Dow stocks in positive area (29 of 30). Top gainer - Apple Inc. (AAPL, +3.33%). Top loser - NIKE, Inc. (NKE, -0.18%).

All of S&P sectors also in positive area. Top gainer - Basic Materials (+1.2%).

At the moment:

Dow 18096.00 +176.00 +0.98%

S&P 500 2136.25 +23.00 +1.09%

Nasdaq 100 4805.25 +76.75 +1.62%

Oil 44.31 +0.73 +1.68%

Gold 1322.10 -4.00 -0.30%

U.S. 10yr 1.71 +0.02