1.   But now a massive drop in demand from Asia has weakened prices that were already softening from overproduction, both at home and abroad.

2.   Forecasts for beneficial rains in the Midwest also helped weaken prices.

3.   In addition, long-term interest rates could come under pressure as the year unfolds, and could weaken stock prices.

4.   Inflation weakens stock prices by raising rates banks charge for loans.

5.   Nymex natural gas prices were also weakened by forecasts of mild weather this week in the Upper Midwest, the main market for natural gas consumption, analysts said.

6.   Oil and gas drilling companies suffered from the trend of weakening crude oil prices.

7.   Retaliation by Mexico, if it occurs, could jeopardize farm q exports, weaken commodity prices and cost jobs, analysts said.

8.   Retaliation by Mexico, if it occurs, could jeopardize farm exports, weaken commodity prices and cost jobs, analysts said.

9.   So, while such concerns persist over supply shortages, are there any market characteristics which may weaken prices?

10.   The Australian dollar was little changed from yesterday in late Sydney trading, recovering from an overnight drop caused by weakening gold prices, traders said.