U.S. stocks rose on Thursday, underpinned by a rebound in technology shares, while renewed concerns about the economy boosted defensive stocks.

U.S. President Barack Obama today (Monday) announced a proposal for new legislation to pursue American tax evaders by closing loopholes and clamping down on overseas tax breaks for American businesses and individuals.

Rattner Floated as Car Czar; Sources: Barclays Planning 2,100 Lay Offs; BG Group Pumping Billions into Brazil Oil; Pfizer Cutting 800 Research Posts; Oil Snaps Week-Long Skid; Commercial Banks Borrowing Less Than Investment Banks; Companies Scramble to Fill Pension Plan Gaps

A fresh round of earnings reports dragged on U.S. stocks today (Thursday).