1.   But nervous investors reasoned that if Microsoft could be a target, other successful technology companies could be as well.

2.   If so, investors reason, the newly public company will take off and bring great profits.

3.   Also, shares of many prominent retailers fell as investors reasoned that signs of a slowdown in consumer spending could mean retailers will see revenue and profits slide.

4.   Investors reasoned that if such high-profile companies were struggling, then other firms most certainly are suffering as well.

5.   Shares of many prominent retailers also fell as investors reasoned that signs of a slowdown in consumer spending could mean retailers will see revenue and profits slide.